Crochet is a very multipurpose needlecraft used to create many kinds of items like: sweaters, scarves, vests, shawls, hats, mittens, blankets and every kind of garment that your mind can imagine!
The technique is favored by many people who love needlecraft essentially because crochet stitches allow us also to make beautiful and useful home decorations such as doilies, blankets, tablecloths and even bedspreads.
It is a hobby that is very relaxing as well as crocheting can be very easy to learn. This skill is regaining popularity all over the world and is done with simple tools like a crochet hook or latch tool. Your designs can be simple or quite complex, it is your choice and varies based on your level of skill and ability.
There are 2 ways that you find directions for crocheting
1. Diagrams, more commonly used in Europe
2. Written instructions, more commonly used in the US which tell the crocheter which stitches are used, which order they are to be used in and the crochet project finishing details.
Some important information to know before you begin a project:
1. All crochet design projects begin with the chain stitch. If you are making an afghan, your chains can be long, and if you are making a hat, your chain will be short and closer to your head circumference for your circle depending on the style of hat you are making and the stretch of the yarn.
2. Making sure you have even stitching is very important to ensure that your project will be the correct size when you are finished.
3. An inexpensive way to try out your first sample to see if you would like doing crocheting is using a size H aluminum crochet needle and a skein of 100% acrylic yarn. Adjust the size of the hook either down or up to reach the gauge required by the pattern you have selected.
4. Hold the hook in your right hand whether you are left handed or right handed, just at the flat area of the hook. Wrap your other fingers around the lower areas of the hook. Adjust the yarn so that it is comfortable and let it flow easily without restraint or pulling as this stretches the yarn and impacts what size it will be when you are finished.
5. You do not count the loop that is on the hook when counting your stitches.
6. The correct number or counting of chains should be formed always at the start of every row in order for you to continue at the correct height or length for the succeeding row. This “turning chain” establishes the first or “initial stitch” of the subsequent row.
7. At all times, you need to pick two loops that are from the previous row of the stitch except when the pattern indicates back or front loop.
8. A “space” is described as the interval between stitches.
9. Do not make a “slip stitch” into your first stitch.
10. After you complete your work, you must pull through a “loop on hook” one last time and cut the yarn and pull the end through.
The saying “practice makes perfect” is true in crochet. While this is can be simple hobby to work on, a beginner can find learning the skill as well as the patterns very complicated. With practice, patience and determination one can easily make simple crochet patterns. Have fun while doing it!