I didn't have any previous experience with crochet. I think I mentioned in my Yoda post that I practiced a little bit with a larger hook and some standard worsted weight yarn before starting the Yoda, and there were a few initial attempts that I abandoned after a few rounds that didn't make it into the final that retroactively became practice, but I've never had anyone teach me in person, I'm just going off of what I've found on the net and the book that came with the kit.