When I first started teaching one of my first challenges came in my second class of teaching. A left handed student wanting to crochet in my class? The thought had never occurred to me! I was fortunate that she was not only a friend of mine, but she also was patient with my trials and errors as I learned what to do and not to do. Little did I realize how important that session became for both of us until many , many , many day past. Since then I have successfully taught many left handed students.
There are basically only two things I do different when teaching a left handed person;e
First, I Create a Mirror Image. This is very easily done by sitting across from the student you are trying to teach. Keep in mind they will hold their hook and yarn in the opposite hand from you. For example: Your hook will be in your right hand – their hook will be in their left hand.
Secondly I stand behind the student as they crochet. When I am teaching a left handed student. I always sit in front of them to show them how to do the stitch and behind them when I am guiding them through the stitches. This makes it easier for me to see what they are doing and to spot their mistakes.
This is really all you need to know. They are no special tools or skills when a right handed person is teaching a left handed person. These two techniques are proven methods and over years of teaching have worked for me and will work for you.
I would love to hear about your experiences in teaching. What worked for you and what did not. Or are you a wannabe crocheter who is left handed and gave it up because you were discouraged? Drop me a line. If you are in my area I would love to help you.
Until next week, keep those hooks flying.
That’s how my mom taught me when I was younger. I tried to do it that way to teach my right-handed niece, but it didn’t work so well for some odd reason. 😦 Works just the one way, I guess. Lol.
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I have no experience with a left handed person teaching a right handed person. I do know that this works with a right hander teaching a left hander. I am sorry it did not work for you. I have used this process successful for years.
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My 9yr old grandson keeps asking me to teach him how to crochet. Thank you for your ideas on how to do this. When he stays next week I will now try your suggestion.
I will let you know how I get on.
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I forgot to say he is left handed. Sorry x
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It is a wonderful feeling to teach someone to crochet. Since your grandson is 9 you might want to also read the post on How to Teach Children. https://crochetwithpassion.wordpress.com/2013/02/27/tips-on-how-to-teach-children-to-crochet/ The most important thing is to enjoy the time you will be spending together.
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I have tried many times to crochet.Many right handed people wanted to help me.I need someone who is left handed in my area.cocoa,Florida to show me.Thank you in advance for your help.Ann Jorgensen
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I have taught a few left handed people, it seems to work best with sitting across from them. You also want to look for someone who has successfully taught right handed people. I have also discovered over the years that knowing how to do something and teaching someone else is two different things. Not every one can be a good teacher. Also Try looking in your area for a crocheting club, there might be a left handed crocheter in the group. Would love to hear if you find someone. Hope this helps.
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