Oct
31
Filed Under (741) by Kert
Amanda Roddy asked:
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Many beginning crocheters don’t venture past the basic crochet stitches after learning to crochet. They only learn the single crochet, double crochet, and triple crochet. There are plenty of fancy crochet stitches to learn. They form interesting texture and patterns and add interest to your work. It doesn’t take special skills to learn the more advanced stitches. These stitches are based on what you already know. You just need a crochet hook and yarn along with patience. Here are a few fancy crochet stitches to include in you stitch collection. Practice with worsted weight yarn and a G or H hook until you get the feel of them.

Cross Stitch

This crochet stitch doesn’t have anything to do with embroidery. The crochet cross-stitch creates a nice, openwork pattern resembling an X. Make a multiple of three chains. Row 1: Single crochet in each chain across. Chain three and turn. Row 2: Skip first single crochet. Double in the next stitch. Go back and double crochet in skipped stitch. Repeat row 1 and 2 for pattern.

Post stitch

The post crochet stitch creates a raised texture. It also produces a thick, reversible fabric. To make a front post double crochet , crochet any number of chains. Row 1:Double crochet in each chain across. Chain three, turn. Row 2: Double crochet in the vertical bar of next double crochet. Double crochet in next stitch across. Chain three and turn. Double crochet across. Repeat the tow rows for pattern. To make back post double crochet make a row of double crochet. Chain three, turn. Double crochet in the vertical bar behind the stitch. Double crochet in the next stitch. Repeat across. Alternate rows of double crochet and post stitches.

Puff Stitch

Puff stitch is a crochet stitch that resembles a bubble. Make a row of double or single crochet. Chain one to turn for single crochet and three for double crochet. Double crochet in first stitch. Two loops should be on hook. Work first half of double crochet in same stitch retaining last loop on hook. Repeat five or six more times. Making sure loops are the same height. Yarn over and draw thread through all loops. More double crochet make the stitch thicker.

Cluster Stitch

The cluster crochet stitch is worked on an even number of stitches. Unlike the puff crochet stitch, the cluster stitch uses two or three stitches. Techniques vary on the cluster stitch but here is a common method.

Make an even number of chains. Yarn over and double crochet in fourth chain from hook. Yarn over and draw through two lops on hook. Yarn over and insert hook in next chain. Draw through two loops. Yarn over and draw through all three loops. Repeat across with chain one in the middle.

Popcorn Stitch

The popcorn stitch is another textured stitch. It can be worked in single or double crochet. Crochet any number of even chain stitches. single Crochet in each chain across. Chain three and turn. Make five double crochet in the same stitch. Drop loop from hook. Insert hook in first stitch and pull dropped loop through.



GUY
Missy Beckett asked:


Crochet is a craft that has really taken off in recent years and has become more ‘hip’ these days. Perhaps it is because of people like Martha Stewart and some of the other celebrities who have talked about their passion for various craft activities such as knitting and crochet.
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Something that many people may not know with regard to crochet is that there are a lot more things you can make than just blankets and sweaters. There is an amazing variety of items that you can create with just a crochet hook and a supply of yarn. For example, would you have guessed that there are crochet patterns for things like teddy bears, pillows, home decor items and jewelry?

Beyond the style of crochet that most people are familiar with, there are also other styles as well, For example, filet crochet uses thread to create much more delicate and intricate items than other methods. Filet crochet is often used to create items like place mats, doilies or table runners.

Tunisian or afghan crochet is quite different since it uses a much larger hook than traditional crochet, and is a good method for creating large items like afghans and rugs.

Bead crochet can really add some eye-grabbing bling to a project by incorporating beads into the project. This can be done with items like purses, jewelry and clothing.

Someone looking for a relaxing passtime which also has the benefit of creating useful items may find that crochet is the perfect choice for them. It is very inexpensive to get started and many find in quite addicting after they have been doing it for a while.

 

For me, the perfect relaxing evening is sitting on my couch working on a crochet project with a good movie on the television and a glass of wine. It really helps melt away the stress of a hard day at work.



GRAHAM
Ling Tong asked:
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You only need to know two or three basic stitches in order to complete a project using beginner crochet patterns. In order to do any crocheting, you always start with a chain stitch. First you make a loop around your finger and use the crochet hook to draw the thread or the wool through the loop. When you first start this craft, it is better to use wool and a larger crochet hook because it is easier to see what you are doing. You must always leave a length of the thread or wool and weave it in when you complete the project. This will prevent your work from ravelling out on you while you are still working.

 

In order to do any crocheting, you must first learn the chain stitch. This is called the foundation chain in most patterns, both for beginners and veterans. Once you make a loop with the thread, you insert the crochet hook into the loop and wrap the thread or wool around the hook part of the needle. Then you pull this through and pull the thread tight, but not too tight. Now put the yarn over the crochet hook and insert it in the previous loop and pull through. This is how you start any crochet project. In some projects, you have to chain a specific number of stitches and then turn the work and crochet back over the stitches you just made. If you want to make a table doily, you usually join the chain to form a circle and work within the circle making the rounds bigger each time.

 

The easiest crochet pattern to begin with is that of a dishcloth. You only need one ball of cotton yarn and a larger size hook ?G is the recommended size for this project. Chain 35 stitches to make your foundation row. Then you chain an extra stitch so that you can turn the work and still have the required number of stitches to keep the dishcloth square or rectangular in shape. You have to make an extra chain stitch at the end of each row so that you can turn the work.

 

Once you have this row in place and are ready to start working backwards over the stitches you made, the next stitch you have to use is the single crochet. To make a single crochet, insert the needle into the top loop of the second chain from the hook, put the yarn over the needle and then draw through the two loops you have on the hook. You repeat this right across the row and then you turn and continue with doing rows of single crochet for 38 rows. When you have 38 rows completed, break the yarn and draw the end of the yarn through the loop on the hook. Now you can weave in the dangling ends. Now you have your first project completes.

 

Another simple project for someone just getting started with crocheting is a blanket for a doll. You will need to have a longer foundation chain and you can complete it using single crochet stitches as well. If you want to use a different stitch, you can start using the double crochet stitch. To make this stitch, all you have to do is put the needle through the stitch you are working on and put the yarn over the needle. However, instead of drawing through all the loops on the hook, you only draw through two at a time. Then you put the yarn over the hook and draw through the remaining two loops.



SIMON
Abhishek Agarwal asked:


What is more rewarding in the world than having your baby dressed in an outfit that has been specially crocheted by yourself like booties or cute sweaters. The Art of Crochet you will find is the easiest of all crafts to learn, even for total beginners of using yarn. It takes just an evening to crochet booties and a matching sweater for baby will take a weekend.

Baby Booties

To make the baby booties just require the basic stiches of : chain stitch (cs), dec (pull up the loop of the next 2 stitches, pull the yarn over then through both of the loops on the hook), and single crochet (SC).

1 Get some worsted weight yarn, equip yourself with a size H crochet hook, and start by 5 CS (Chain Stitch). Turn and SC for 3 chains, 5 SC at the end chain, one SC in bottom loop at each of the next 3 SC stitches. The end chain is then 5 SC to turn the corner.

2 Now 5 SC, two SC in the next stitch; repeat 2 SC in the next stitch, repeat again, 5 SC, 2 SC in the next stitch, SC, 2 SC in the next stitch, SC, and 2 SC in the next stitch.

3 8 SC, 2 SC in the next stitch, 5 SC, 2 SC in the next, 8 SC, 2 SC in the next, 5 SC, and 2 SC in the next.

4 and 5 Even crochet with no increases for these next 2 rounds. Notice the sole as it begins to curve upwards. Once you have done the second round, turn.

6 SC for 5 SC, dec, 3 SC, dec, 5 SC, then turn.

7 SC for 3 SC, dec, 1 SC, dec, 3 SC, then turn.

8 SC for 1 SC, dec, dec, 1 SC, then turn.

9 and 10 SC in each SC, again continuing the rounds, dec one at either side of the top of the bootie for the next two rounds.

11, 12 and 13 Work these 3 rounds evenly, and finish by fastening off.

Repeat, to make the second bootie.

You can, if you wish, put a design on top of the baby booties such as an embroidered flower.

The booties can be crocheted in many different colours of your choice as they are so simple to make, so that you have a collection.

Sweater

It is easy to make the sweater too, which is designed ideally for fitting a newborn baby up to 6 months. The same type of yarn and hook are used.

1 Chain 45, and turn.

2 SC for the next 5 SC. Next, inc. by 2 SC, Chain 2, and in one stitch 2 SC. For the next 8 stitches SC, inc. by working SC for the next 16 stitches, inc., SC for 8 stitches, inc., and SC to the end.

3-12 Continue working the established pattern, even SC on all, inc. for each loop on Chain 2, until all 10 rows are completed.

13 This is the shaping row: Firstly, crochet the Ch 2 loop, crochet to Ch 2 loop, skip all the stitches till the next Ch 2 loop, and crochet that loop. SC each stitch of the next Ch 2 loop, skip all of the stitches till you reach the Ch 2 loop, SC the loop and then SC for each SC to the end, and turn.

Continue working until the sweater is 6 inches in measurement from the underarm. You can fasten off now.

For the right underarm, pick up and Crochet each SC. Continue working in rounds for the sleeve until it measure the same length as from the underarm as the body. Repeat to make the left sleeve. Finish by fastening off.

From the lower right hand, start by picking up the end stitch and crochet 1 SC each stitch at the front opening, around the collar, back down to the other side of the front of the sweater. The openings in the neck collar are now ready for a ribbon to be run through it, to make the necktie.

There you have it, a crochet sweater that it cozy and warm, with matching booties created by your own hands, especially for your baby. Aah!



MARK
ctem asked:


Does turn mean like —> then <---- by going to the other side of what you are crocheting or going to the other edge?
Is size G of a crochet hook in number equals size 7?
Thank you very much!
God bless everyone!

BENNETT
angie asked:


Also, what is the best size thread to use for making names?
Do you know of any good web sites that explains how to crochet different borders.

TODD
tapgurl4ever asked:


Every website I go to I always see that I need a crochet hook but I don’t have one. I also don’t know how to crochet. Is there a way to make a tote bag out of plastic shopping bags without crocheting it??

HERBERT
Sep
10
Sherry Frewerd asked:


Crochet is a popular craft around the world. For thousands of years, people have used the art of crochet to create lace and fabrics to use on their garments and to sell to others. Crocheted items were a sign of wealth and prestige.

With the age of the industrial revolution came the mass production of crocheted materials and fabrics, making owning them affordable for anyone, not just the wealthy. As such, crocheted garments became more and more popular worldwide.

These days, crochet is the hobby and craft of many people. There are lots of different arts and crafts as well as, clothing, garments and household items that can be created by means of crochet. Crochet is so easy to learn; practically anyone can do it, making it easy to learn a new skill. Advances in yarn and fiber making technology have provided new and interesting materials for crochet and other needle crafts.

So, since you’re obviously interested in what it takes to start crocheting as a hobby, here are some basic initial steps to help you get going with learning to crochet.

Get Your Supplies Together. You’ll simply need a crochet hook, yarn, a pair of scissors and a large eye needle.

Properly Holding the Crochet Hook. Hold your needle in whichever hand you use to write with. Create a simple slip knot and put it over the end of the hook.

Start Making a Continuous Stitch. Hook the yarn and bring it to the top of the hook and pull through the slip knot. Continue making this chain.

Work Your Way Up the Chain. Move up the chain allowing the first chain stitch to knot on the hook. This allows the yarn to stay in place and not loosen. It is generally a good idea to make this first knot tight rather than loose.

Make Two Loops. Insert your crochet hook into the hole of the next chain stitch and slide the passing yarn through its center.

Bring the Yarn Back. Bring your yarn back on the hook from back to front and slide your knot in the center of the loops which you have already created on the crochet hook.

Make Some Rows. From your second yarn loop, make another single chain stitch and make a counter-clockwise loop. Start again and create the same loops as the previous stitches. Continue this basic crochet technique until you have a swatch of fabric. Once you have completed a swatch of fabric, it is time to remove it from your ball of yarn. Cut it with about a 6″ tail left at the end.

Fasten to Prevent Unraveling. Bring your tail of yarn back through the last stitch to fasten it and then cut the excess.

By using these easy tips and steps, you can achieve your goal of learning to crochet with ease. You’ll be able to start and complete your first crochet project and feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Just as with any new skill, you’ll need to find the proper supplies, materials and instruction before you begin, but with time and patience you’ll become skilled at the art of crochet.



BEN
Sep
09
Filed Under (Needlework) by Kert
Amber Green asked:


Hello crochet lovers,

You already know the basic crochet stitches. Now you want to do something more. May be you want to learn more stitches or crochet something new. Well, with crochet the options are endless. You can learn advance crochet stitches to which I’ve dedicated an entire issue of the newsletter.

Something advanced and yet simple is the Tunisian stitch variously known as the afghan stitch, tricot stitch, railroad knitting, Shepherd’s knitting or hook knitting. Tunisian stitch is easy to learn and helps create a sturdy fabric-like product, which makes it an excellent stitch for making afghans. Tunisian crochet lends definite right and wrong sides to the final creation, which is great for embroidery and cross-stitch.

Tunisian crochet is different from regular crochet in the sense that it never requires you to turn your work. In Tunisian crochet, you go forward on a row and then come back the same way without turning your work around. The only time a Tunisian crochet project is turned is when you do the first row after making the foundation chain at the beginning of the project.

Another factor making Tunisian crochet distinct from standard crochet is that each row is a two-step process. Unlike crochet projects using stitches other than Tunisian stitch, in afghan stitch you pick up stitches from the previous row and then come back pulling the yarn through all the stitches picked up on the hook. In this respect, Tunisian crochet is sort of a combination of knitting and crochet.

Tunisian crochet hook is typically larger than standard crochet hooks. Think of Tunisian crochet hook as a knitting needle with a hook on one end. This is particularly helpful if you are working of large projects such as afghans and adult size sweaters.

You might have seen a double-ended hook with crochet hook on both ends of the stick. This type of hook is used in crochetnit, a technique with which Tunisian crochet is often confused. Crochetnit is also known as cro-hook, cro-knit or crochet on the double

Something you need to be careful about when using Tunisian stitch is to frequently count the number of stitches. Carelessness can lead to dropped stitches just as in knitting. Fixing dropped stitches while crocheting is time consuming and frustrating. Do your best to avoid skipping stitches.

Once you are comfortable doing the afghan stitch, experiment with using two or more colors to make colored patterns.

Detailed instructions for Tunisian crochet are given at:

http://www.crochetme.com/Apr_May_2005/reads_tunisian.html

http://www.crochetcabana.com/specialty/tunisian.htm

http://www.stitchdiva.com/custom.aspx?id=40

Learning videos are given at http://www.nexstitch.com/Tutorials.html.

Practice Tunisian stitch from patterns given at http://crochet.about.com/b/a/171859.htm.

Tunisian crochet patterns are available at:

http://www.kimanedesigns.net/products/tantalizingafghans.html

http://www.crochetpatterncentral.com/directory/tunisian_crochet.php

Good luck with learning and doing Tunisian crochet!



SHELDON
Aug
14
Amber Green asked:


Hello everyone,

The other day surfing through the Internet I came across an interesting piece of information – about 8-15% of the population is left-handed. This means, out of every 100 individuals 8-15 are left-handers! Read more about left-handedness at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Left-handed.

Exciting statistics about left-handedness are given at http://www.left-at-the-start.com/statistics.html.

Come to think of it, most equipment and systems are made for right-handed people. It surely is not an easy world for left-handers. This made me empathize with left-handed crocheters. Most patterns, stitches and crocheting techniques are for the more common right-handed people. But what about left-handed crocheters? So I dedicate this issue to helping you find crochet resources for left-handers.

Crochet Guild of America (CGOA) has a series of useful lessons for left-handed crocheters. The lessons come with supporting pictures and symbols for different stitches too. These are available at http://www.crochet.org/lessons/lessonl/lessonl.html.

More steps and instructions are given at http://www.wikihow.com/Crochet-or-Knit-Left-Handed.

Learning to crochet with left hand is same as learning a new thing. I am sure the above links will be helpful if you seriously want to take up crochet. Here are some guidelines that will help you master the craft in a few days:

•    Use a thicker yarn to learn the craft. Start using specialty yarn later on.

•    Initially, concentrate on getting comfortable holding and working the crochet hook in your left hand and the yarn in right.

•    Learn simple stitches in the beginning. There is plenty of time to learn the complicated stitches and techniques. Anyway, stitches for advanced crocheters also use the same basic stitches. Also, many crocheted articles can be made with the basic stitches. Some people spend their lives working simple stitches!

•    In the beginning, work on small projects such as dishcloths and granny squares. You can use them as samplers to learn different stitches. Because, these articles can be crocheted quickly, there is also that sense of instant gratification, so crucial when doing something new.

•    Avoid sitting next to the mentor, especially if he/she is right-handed. Sitting in front of the right-handed instructor will give a much better understanding of the technique.

•    Pay attention to your posture and take good care of your hands. You don’t want to go through the pain repetitive stress injuries (RSI) bring with them.

•    Be patient and you’ll be crocheting in no time.

Good luck learning to use the hook!



JOHNATHON