If you don't know anything about how to crochet, there are some things that are good to know. Having everything in place at the beginning will make you feel much more prepared.
Believe me, it's better to be safe than sorry as there is nothing worse than running out of yarn and finding that the yarn store has run out of your batch. First and foremost, upon the choosing of your project and the purchase of your crochet instructions, read the crochet instructions through several times to ensure that you thoroughly understand the steps. There are magazines published that are devoted solely to the art of crochet.
Generally, just a few classes will be more than enough to get you on your way. As a matter of fact, the ability to crochet a dress can provide you with many a resource for gift giving. But you ll be able to make any number of creations only limited by your imagination.
Most of all, have fun and relax. Once you have practiced and feel you are ready to try an easy pattern, you can do a search online for a scarf pattern, which is what most beginners start out with.