Crochet Afghan Make Great Gifts

Crochet afghan cover patterns are one of the popular crochet projects enjoyed by both beginners and advanced crocheters. A crocheted afghan is a great gift for family and friends. It can serve as a wrap or shawl as well as a blanket during chilly nights. The term afghan was derived from the textiles that are produced in Afghanistan since they are comparable to the shawls and wraps used in the region.

Crocheted afghan covers can be used in various ways. There are numerous crochet patterns for afghan blankets. An afghan blanket can be used as a comforter and as a bedspread. It is important to select the appropriate pattern that will fit the size of the intended project.

Afghans also make great gifts during birthdays and holidays as different motifs can be incorporated into the design. A Christmas afghan can help warm cold winter nights while personalized baby afghan blankets can become family heirlooms.

Complimentary Crochet Afghan Patterns

Free crochet afghan patterns are a great way to put together a beautiful afghan for gifts or for personal use. Crochet afghan patterns can be very simple or complex depending on the preference of the crocheter.

A crocheter may opt to select a simple crochet afghan pattern that makes use of numerous granny squares that are put together to form the entire blanket. On the other hand, complex crochet afghan patterns may consist of geometric shapes that feature advanced crochet stitches.

Various resources like craft books, crocheting magazines and crafting websites offer complimentary crochet afghan patterns. These patterns provide complete instructions starting from what type of yarn and hook should be used for the project. In most cases, a crochet pattern may also include helpful tips on the differences between yarns.

Crochet afghan patterns can also serve as an inspiration for a crocheter to create their own unique design. Keep in mind that patterns can be adapted to suit the purpose of the project. Crocheters should not restrict themselves strictly to the instructions of the pattern. It is important to exercise some personal judgment that will help enhance the appearance of the project.

Creating an Afghan from Crochet Patterns

Creating an afghan based on crochet patterns is easy. There are numerous crochet patterns for afghan blankets that can be great as gifts or decorations at home. Simple afghan covers can even have a central theme. For example, an afghan pattern may feature a floral design as well as the national flag.

Popular crochet patterns for afghan covers often feature a stained glass design or can be part of a set of patterns. The afghan crochet pattern can be part of a collection that may include patterns for a crocheted pillowcase or coffee table doily. A striped crochet pattern for an afghan cover is another appealing project that both beginners and advanced crocheters will enjoy.

Creating an afghan from crochet patterns can also be the start of a wonderful tradition that a mother can pass on to their daughters. A free crochet pattern for an afghan cover is not only a great way to start, but it is also fun. A mother and daughter can learn how to crochet at the same time by following a simple afghan crochet pattern. Once completed the finished product can be given away to family and friends.

Mothers and especially grandmothers will appreciate a handcrafted afghan cover created by a young girl from a crochet pattern. When selecting a pattern for the afghan be sure to choose a pattern and color scheme that would suit the personality of the intended party. The type of yarn to be used should also be considered, as it will directly affect the weight of the finished product.

Afghan blankets also make great donations for retirement and nursing homes. The elderly will certainly cherish the effort that went into creating the afghan. At the same time, they will appreciate the warmth of an afghan.

Afghans are an ideal project for anyone interested in learning how to crochet. Afghans are relatively easy to put together and are a great way to learn the basic crochet stitches. At the same time, afghan covers make excellent gifts and keepsakes that last a lifetime.

Loves sharing crochet tips, patterns and other online crochet resources.

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Basic Crochet Stitches

The most basic of crochet stitches include the chain stitch, the slip stitch, the double crochet stitch and the treble stitch. It is important to be confident and capable about forming these stitches, as the majority of crochet patterns include all of them. However you can and will find patterns which omit either the treble or the double crochet stitch so it is essential that you learn at least one of these basic stitches. Nevertheless it will not be long before you find the need to have both in your crocheting skills repertoire.

To begin crocheting it is essential to start from the begin setup position. This is achieved by looping the yarn round itself into a looped ring, then inserting the hook into the loop and catching the yarn with your hook, and bringing it back up through the looped ring and lastly by tightening the slip knot onto your hook. The next task is to hold the crochet hook in your normal dominate hand in a style that suits you (either like a pen or as when holding a knife) whilst holding the yarn securely with your free hand just below the slip knot.

The chain stitch is the first crochet stitch used in all patterns; providing the foundation row or ring for either straight line or circular crochet. It is a very simple stitch abbreviated as ch in crochet patterns.

To work a series of chain stitches, wrap your yarn round your hook (two loops on hook) and then pull your hook through the first loop on its shaft. Now you have only one loop on your hook, and one chain stitch formed. Repeat this process for as many chain stitches as needed for your individual crochet pattern or project.

When crocheting in the round (circular garments like hats and doilies and squares are made this way) you need to join the chain stitches together with a slip stitch. A slip stitch is abbreviated to ss in crochet patterns. This is very simple. Just insert your hook into the middle of the first chain stitch crocheted, pick up the yarn and draw the hook back out again leaving two loops on the hook. Now just draw the hook through the first loop on the hook thus leaving only one loop on the hook and joining the work into a ring.

The double crochet stitch abbreviated to dc or in America the single crochet stitch is very similar to that of the slip stitch just described above. However the hook is placed into the next stitch to be worked. This will vary depending on what project you are making. After inserting the hook into the appropriate position, pick up the yarn and draw the hook back out of the stitch, leaving two loops on the hook. Now wrap the yarn again round the hook making three loops on the hook. Finally draw the hook through all the loops to leave just the one loop on the hook, with one double crochet stitch worked.

The last basic crochet stitch we are going to deal with is the treble stitch, abbreviated to tr in crochet patterns and also known as the double crochet in America. This is the hardest of the basic crochet stitches and is the meat and vegetables of crochet, as many advanced stitches and techniques are based around this stitch. Consequently it is a good idea to be proficient at performing this crochet stitch.

To crochet a treble stitch, first wrap the yarn round the hook before inserting your hook into the stitch where you wish your treble to be located. Catch the yarn as before and draw the hook out of the stitch. At this point you will have three loops on your hook. Again wrap the yarn round your hook, making four loops on the hook. Now draw the hook through the second and third loops on the hook, leaving you with two loops on your hook. Wrap the yarn round the hook again making three loops and draw the hook through these remaining loops, leaving you with just one loop on the hook and one treble formed.

You now have the basic techniques to crocheting, as we have covered the basic crochet stitches. You will be amazed at how many patterns and projects are now at your disposal with just this limited amount of crocheting knowledge. Please do not just take my word for it go and look for yourselves! And remember have fun!

Ana Smith is a highly skilled crocheter with over thirty years experience and author of http://beginners-crochet.blogspot.com/2009/03/crochet-stitches-how-to-crochet-slip.html

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Reading Crochet Patterns

I have to confess that not being able to read a crochet pattern kind of defies the whole concept of crocheting!

When I first learned to crochet, I wanted to know what these abbreviations meant. Maybe I was curious or wanted to learn everything at once - I honestly can't answer that at this point.

To my way of thinking, reading a crochet pattern is essential to the learning of easy crochet. You are very limited as to finished projects if you can't read crochet patterns!

If you can't read a crochet pattern, you are very limited in my opinion. What do you do, keep starting over till you think it's right and continue in that way?

If you can read a crochet pattern you have the world at your disposal. You are not afraid to venture on to try new things in my estimation!

But the number of people who can't read crochet patterns astounds me. It seems like a real pity that they don't learn how to better themselves and feel better about the projects they create!

If you can't read a crochet pattern, how do you make doilies or crochet home-made dishcloths? Remember, they look easy in the picture, but can you duplicate it that way?

When I learned to crochet (it seems like a life-time ago now), those patterns with those strange abbreviations were a challenge to me. At that point, I made up my mind to learn to read the patterns no matter what.

I did a lot of research and asked a multitude of questions and finally got results. The strange part of it was that then I was no longer limited to crocheting with wool alone.

Being able to read crochet patterns seems to give you the confidence to be able to move on to greater heights - by that I mean, I moved onto cotton and made doilies in a very short time of learning how to read crochet patterns.

The thing that amazes me is that people who aren't able to read crochet patterns don't seem to care that every part of every crochet stitch has to be explained and/or demonstrated to them on a one-to-one basis. This bothers me.

I was told at one time that not being able to read crochet patterns showed a lack of patience in whoever did home crocheting in that fashion. It showed no ambition!

Now, I don't agree with that statement, but I have one of my own - "Don't learn anything by halves, learn the whole thing, or don't waste my time!"

When my oldest daughter was in hospital when she was five (5) months old, I was able to crochet a doily, thanks to being able to read crochet directions.

Here's another point to ponder: If you can't read crochet directions or patterns, how do you expand your own crocheting knowledge to include the extra stitches required? I am referring to the treble stitch, the half double stitch and so on - that could be daunting!

So if you are a home crocheter, learn how to read the patterns and don't be stuck in that rut that I call never-ending - read patterns, expand your horizons beyond your own expectations.

There is a wealth of information to be found at http://learningeasycrochet.com.

Not only is there information, but it supplies encouragement as well.

When you get stuck, as we all do sometimes, leave a question in the comment box and you will get an answer within 24 hours.

When you sign up for a membership, you will receive a crochet pattern of your choice along with the help you may need to complete that project!

In the members area, you will shown "how to" and much more along with tips and tricks to speed up your progress.

Check it out today!

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Crochet History 1900s - 21st Century

Lavish crochet emerged alongside other forms of elaborate needlework in the nineteenth century. When printed materials began to be mass-produced in the mid-nineteenth century, the popularity of crochet increased vastly.

Patterns for silk thread purses were the first to have been published, from about 1824 in Holland. Prior to this date, crochet was passed to future generations without written patterns but rather duplicated from small crocheted samples.

Victorian crochet hooks were made of materials such as ivory, brass, various woods, and other bone material. They were often ornately carved, the most impressive often being given as wedding gifts. Crocheted bags, clothing and décor were all popular. Crochet was considered a suitable activity for wealthy women, along with other forms of needlework. Bead crochet began to appear on the market in the 1830s. Knitting with beads was already in fashion at this time.

Crochet became a cottage industry in Ireland with a lace called Irish crochet or guipure lace. In the mid-nineteenth century, it became a large industry owing to a need for people to supplement their income due to the great potato famine of that time. It is still a cottage industry in some countries such as India, Greece, Italy, and some Asian countries.

Crochet samplers dating from the nineteenth century are shown in many museums. A variety of crochet and knitting books were published from the mid-nineteenth century through the 1920s. Filet crochet became very popular from the 1850s.

Crochet continued to be popular into the early twentieth century. The 1920s brought a flood of bead crocheted bags with piles of bead loops to complete the flapper look.

From 1937 through 1940's there were crochet contests for workmanship design and speed. The onset of World War II saw the craft halt, owing to shortages in available materials. Bead crochet bags were popular throughout the 1950's. Crochet became an accepted art form in the 1960s and more experimentation in textile art took place including international fiber shows. Crochet began to regain its popularity in the 1970s, when it became popular to wear crocheted items.

The 1980s and 1990s brought a renaissance of bead and thread crochet. In the early 1990s bead knitted bags gained popularity, which increased the demand for bead crocheted bags.

In 1994 thirty four million American women crocheted or knitted, in 2002 this figure had increased to thirty eight million.

Crochet today is mainly created by using soft yarns to produce garments and blankets. Although the crochet stitch can be made by machine, it continues to be a home craft.

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Providing Tips and Help with Crochet for the beginner and more experienced. Crochet History Part 1 [http://www.officialguidetocrochet.com/crochet-history-part1.html]

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Crochet - Seven Important Crocheting Tips to Remember

We all know the saying Practice makes Perfect. In crochet you will find that this is very true, however it does not take too much practice to make your stitches perfect. Enjoy your crochet and follow these easy tips for pure crocheting success.

Tip 1: When first learning to crochet the whole process will feel very strange, as you will have to hold the hook, yarn and work all at the same time as you try to create the various crochet stitches. But work at it, practice the stitch until it feels natural, this will not take long. A great idea for practicing the basic stitches is to start making up a load of individual Granny squares (or one huge square) to get use to naturally and easily moving the hook. Also at the end you can sew them together and have a cozy blanket.

Tip 2: As you crochet, the yarn is guided through your fingers, this is what actually creates the tension of your work and therefore determines how tight, or not, your crochet stitching is!

If you look at a crochet hook you will see that it tapers inwards as it gets closer to the actual hook, therefore it has differing thicknesses. The further away from the hook itself the thicker it becomes. Therefore if you allow your loops to go up the shaft of the hook then your loops will be larger, and hence work will be looser. If you work near the hook itself, your loops will be smaller; and the smaller the loops the tighter the stitches. So if you find yourself working along the hook shaft and not near the hook, bring the loops down towards the hook and give the yarn another pull to tighten the loops, so that they decrease in size.

Sometimes it is necessary to tighten your stitches even more. To do this just pull your crochet yarn again at the end of the stitch just formed.

Crochet tension is important in most crocheting projects especially for clothing. Tension dictates the size of the finished garment. The tighter you crochet, the thinner the yarn and the smaller the hook, the smaller the end project will be and vice versa. So always check your crocheting tension against the pattern to ensure that the finished item will be of the correct fit. Alternatively begin crocheting with something where tension is not so important such as a mat, shawl or Granny Square.

Tip 3: When making project items where tension is vital, always take the time to prepare a practice swatch. This added time at the beginning of a project will save you time and heartache later. (Practice swatch instructions are always included in the patterns where they are applicable.) Practice swatches are just practice pieces of crochet using the hook and yarn that the garment will be made from. Patterns tell you how many stitches and rows should equal a certain length and width.

Remember you do not have to use the same yarn or the same size hook as instructed in crochet patterns. Adjusting the sizes of your crochet hook when you tension is too tight or too loose for the individual crochet pattern, will alter the finished projects size. Just be wary that if you use a different thickness yarn or a different size hook, check tension by crocheting a practice swatch to double check sizes. This is only really important when making any crocheting clothing garments.

Tip 4: Relax and enjoy your crochet, it really will show in your work. Do not hold your hook or yarn too tightly, nor too loosely. Look back at your stitches and ensure that they are all of the same size. Try to allow your crochet hook to move freely and tighten the yarn automatically after you finish each crochet stitch.

Tip 5: Hold your work at all times. Your thumb and forefinger should be holding your crocheting just below where you are stitching.

Tip 6: When joining new balls of yarn always do so at a chain stitch and try to ensure if straight line crocheting that it is at the end of a row, as this makes it easier to weave in the yarn ends. This will also give a more professional finish.

Tip 7: Crocheting with fun fur is not easy, due to its many eyelashes. For a beginner this is not at all easy, as these eyelashes make it very difficult to actually see your crocheted stitches. If you cannot see your stitches, correctly positioning your hook into the back and front of stitches is extremely hard work and can be extremely frustrating. It is therefore very easy to go wrong.

By adding a second ball of yarn of a different type (any type without eyelashes) to the fun fur and crocheting with a strand of each yarn at the same time, you will make your stitches much more visible, making the work much easier to handle. This will make your yarn and therefore work much thicker, so ensure if making a clothing garment that this will still fit and adjust hook sizes appropriately.

Above all, have fun... Remember crochet is an enjoyable pastime even for a beginner. So pick up a hook and begin today.

Ana Smith is a highly skilled crocheter of over thirty years and author of http://www.beginners-crochet.blogspot.com

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10 Gift Ideas For Crochet Lovers

Being a crochet lover for both a hobby and a business, I have tried many crochet gadgets, books, patterns, and anything else associated with crochet.

My friends and family occasionally ask me what I want for Christmas or my birthday and I try to think of a new crochet gadget or a new crochet book that I would love to have. For the people that do not crochet, they have no idea what type of gift to buy for the person who loves to crochet. So, I put together a brief list of some of my favorite things related to crochet.

1. Storage Containers: If the person you are purchasing a gift for is anything like me, they have yarn overflowing all the containers in their house. Many of us crocheters can't walk into any type of craft store without browsing the yarn section. This means extra yarn which means we need extra storage. Good storage containers are wicker baskets lined with fabric, large plastic tubs, roomy totes, and floor caddies. There are floor caddies designed especially for yarn and accessories that can be found at craft stores and online at Herrschners.com.

2. Yarn: What crochet lover is not obsessed with yarn? There isn't a yarn made that I wouldn't love to have. Yarn comes in any color and texture imaginable. Yarn type examples are worsted weight, cotton, sport weight, baby yarn, sock yarn, afghan yarn, bulky or thick yarn, variegated yarn, etc. Find out what type of yarn is their favorite and head off to your local craft store.

3. Light Up Crochet Hooks: These hooks are really good to use for the crochet enthusiast that needs help seeing their stitches and when working with dark colored yarns. Light Up Crochet Hooks can be found in the bigger craft stores and online for about $7.95 each or $60.00 for a complete set.

4. Crochet Cushions: These are little cushions that slip on crochet hooks to help eliminate finger pain associated with using crochet hooks.

5. New Crochet Hook Case: Notice I added the word "new" to this one. My crochet hook case looks like my neighbor's dog, my cat and my 2 kids all played tug-of-war with it! For some reason, it is the one thing that I never purchase for myself. So, if your favorite crocheter's hook case has seen better days, buy them a new one!

6. Thera Glove: This glove is made of spandex and nylon and supports the hand and wrist helping to control soreness and fatigue associated with repetitious crocheting. They come in fun designs and cost about $20.00 a pair.

7. Crochet Stitch Books: I love looking at crochet stitch books. My favorite stitch book is titled "The Complete Book of Crochet Stitch Designs". This book contains 500 stitch patterns that include colored diagrams and pictures. This is a wonderful reference book for the beginner and the expert crocheter! There are more crochet stitch books available in craft stores, book stores, and online at Amazon.com.

8. Crochet Stitch Calendar: My favorite crochet calendar is called "365 Crochet Stitches a Year". It is a perpetual calendar that has beautiful stitch patterns and colored pictures. This calendar can be purchased at places like Barnes & Noble or online at Amazon.com

9. Crochet Patterns: This one, I highly recommend, because I am a crochet pattern designer! There are many talented crochet pattern designers in the world today. In your local craft store, you can purchase crochet pattern booklets and books. You can purchase crochet patterns online at eBay, Etsy, LuLu and designers' websites. Simply search on the internet for "crochet patterns" and you will have many to choose from.

10. Gift Card to Favorite Yarn or Craft Store: This might be obvious to many of you, but any crafter loves a gift card to their favorite craft store!

I hope I have helped you come up with an idea or two on what to buy the crochet lover in your life. If you are wondering where to purchase any of the items above, try shopping at your local craft store, Hobby Lobby, JoAnn Fabrics, Herrschners.com and AnniesAttic.com.

Lesley Dietschy is a crochet pattern designer and the founder of http://www.HomeDecorExchange.com - Visit the Home Decor Exchange website for all of your home decorating needs.

To view her crochet patterns visit: http://www.eCrochetPatterns.com

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Do You Know Your Crochet Terms?

When learning how to crochet, you will soon realize that the patterns use a lot of abbreviations. These are crochet terms that are shortened to make patterns shorter and easier to read. Anyone learning how to crochet needs to familiarize themselves with basic crochet terms in order to read the patterns properly. There are a number of standard crochet terms and abbreviations that are frequently used. Some of these crochet terms pertain to the various stitches used in a section of a pattern, while others refer to colors. MC is the crochet term for the main color that is used in a pattern. CC is the secondary or contrasting color used. YO means to wrap the yarn over the hook and CH is the crochet term for a chain stitch.

There are even more standard crochet terms, such as sc, which means single crochet and dc, meaning double crochet. Single crochet and double crochet are simply ways of stitching; all of the terms used are based on a single crochet stitch, which means inserting the crochet hook into a stitch, wrapping the yarn around the hook and drawing the hook back through the stitch, wrapping the yarn over the hook and lastly drawing through both loops. There are also half-double crochet stitches, which are abbreviated to hdc, and treble crochet, which is shortened to tr. Sl is the abbreviation for the crochet term slip stitch.

Differences between British and American Crochet Terms

Some of the crochet patterns that you may come across could be American but others could be from anywhere around the world. A number of countries use certain crochet terms that differ in other places. American and British patterns, for example, differ in a number of crochet terms. The main differences are important because they can completely alter a pattern if the contradictory meaning is used. The American crochet terminology for a slip stitch is called a single crochet in Britain. An American single crochet is a double crochet in Britain. Likewise, an American double crochet is considered a treble crochet and an American triple crochet is a British double-treble crochet. It is essential that people who are learning how to crochet and who are using different patterns realize exactly what country's terms are used. Using the American terms in a British pattern could ruin the whole project and vice versa. Most patterns should indicate where they are from or what crochet terminology they are using so, as long as care is taken, it should not get too confusing.

Terry Roberts is a professional translator and linguist, with a wide range of interests. To read more about crochet terms, and about crochet in general, please visit his website: Crochet for Novices

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Learning the Craft of Crocheting - Beginner Crochet Pattern

Crocheting is for grannies! That's the mindset of most people when they think of crocheting. However, this is actually extremely incorrect. Not only is it not done by just the elderly, it's done on a lot of things. It's even done on a lot of designer clothes.

Crocheting is not an activity made only for our grannies and for bitter spinsters. It can be done by everyone. Especially, now that clothing trends are now more inclined into the use of crocheted items, popular clothing designers are also smitten by crocheting.

However, crocheting is not only for the plain Jane. One has to have the patience and, of course, the time to be able to do anything crocheted. So how does one actually get herself learn to crochet?

It really is not a hard skill to learn. But it neither is an easy one. In order to get you going, all you need is a good crochet hook, yarns, measuring tape, yarn needle, some pins, and a lot of determination to finish a crocheting project.

Here is a rundown of tips on how to easily learn crocheting:

Hold the Yarn Like a Pro

For newbies in crocheting, holding a yarn could be quite a tricky job. Even if it only takes some time of getting used to, knowing how hold it properly and skillfully is not to be overlooked.

It may not be the easiest thing in the world to master, but it sure is worth it. The magnificent work you can complete with the help of crochet is amazing. If you have a little extra time to pick this up as a hobby, you wont regret it.

Here is how:

1. Let the yarn pass through your fingers upon holding it. This is how it is done: the little finger, then, beneath the ring finger, then, above the forefinger and the middle finger.

2. Another way to hold the yarn is to loop in the region of the little finger, and then, make it cross the forefinger.

3. Upon holding the hook, imagine how you would hold a pencil or a spoon. That's how it should be held. In that position, it won't be hard for you to heave the yarn from your fingers down to the loop in the hook.

As you go along the process of crocheting and you start to get the hang of it, you will learn your unique and most comfortable way of working with the yarn. Don't be afraid to adopt a new method of holding it. It will help you become more of an efficient crochet craftsperson in the long run.

Size Matters When it Comes to the Hook and Yarn

One should not take for granted the skill of identifying the right hook and yarn to use in any crochet project.

Hooks are identified through different letters and numbers that correspond to certain sizes. In crocheting, the higher the number or letter of the hook, the thicker the hook is. As for yarns, their varieties are identified through names.

Resizing the Crochet Project Through the Pattern

To reduce the size of a project, it is as simple as deducting some stitches. One can skip a stitch in a row and continue with the next to reduce the size of the project. To enlarge a project, it is as easy as inserting more stitches in a row. One can easily join two stitches of the same row together. This will make one produce a solo stitch on the next row prior to it.

Reading a Pattern Like a Book

What can complicate the activities of one that is engaged in crocheting are the abbreviations on a pattern. The use of memory and logic can help a lot in surmounting this little crocheting obstacle. The outcome of being able to memorize these important abbreviations is a much faster pace in crocheting and more efficient hands.

1. Crochet patterns and instructions are worked usually in rounds or rows. It will be indicated on the pattern if you are doing or working in rounds, rows or mixture of both.

2. Crochet patterns and instructions are generally ranked according to difficulty level such as advanced, intermediate, easy or beginner. Choose a pattern with a difficulty level that suits your abilities. Then, increase the level of difficulty as your skill advances.

3. Count the stitches that you have made as you go on with your work to monitor the stitches needed on each round or row as required by the pattern.

4. Verify your gauge by crocheting a sample of about 4 X 4 inches in the pattern. When your gauge results into a larger size than what is on the pattern, then use a smaller hook; when your gauge is smaller, then use a larger hook.

When it's time for you to actually accomplish a crochet project, make sure that you follow the instructions well and you make your patience a bit sturdier than before. Prepare your devices beforehand to ensure the smooth flow of your crocheting endeavor.

Now you know the steps of crocheting. You may not be a master at it right now, but at least you will know the basics. You can now start working at making magnificent work with this little hobby. Now, get to crocheting!

Sick of Doing Home Improvment then discover Beginner Crochet Patterns [http://www.startcrocheting101.com/startcrochetingarticles.php] at [http://www.startcrocheting101.com]

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Vintage Crochet Is Easy

I learned vintage crochet at a very young age, my first projects were doilies made from small cotton thread and a tiny crochet hook. I then used all types of yarn and many patterns to create the most beautiful items, I really love baby things, they are so soft and gorgeous. I taught students in a high school Home Economics class to do my fun pastime of crochet.

Today or presently, the patterns are obtainable for almost any item of clothing with beautiful colors and motifs designs. First as a beginner you have to learn the tricks of the trade, once learned these abbreviations and terms become so very easy. This known makes the patterns look so much more appealing, you know exactly what to do. I am going to start with all the abbreviations and terms:

beg- begin or beginning

ch- chain

dc- double crochet

dec- decrease

hdc- half double crochet

inc- increase

lp- loop

pat- pattern

rnd- round

sc- single crochet

sk- skip

sl- slip

sp- space

st- stitch

tog- together

tr- treble

yo- yarn over

Simplified Six Basic Crochet Stitches

Ch or Chain crochet- The beginning of any project is the chain stitch. The chain stitch row becomes your foundation of the pattern. Now, tie a knot about one inch from the end of your yarn. Leave a loop that is big enough to pull the point of your crochet hook through easily. Put your hook into the loop, then wrap your yarn over the hook once before pulling it through the loop. This is your first chain, now you repeat this stitch for the amount stated in the pattern. The chain stitch is the beginning for almost every pattern you will make.

Sl or Slip crochet- The slip stitch is mainly used to connect two pieces of crocheted work together. Such as to form a circle, for crocheting in the round type pattern. Let's make a slip stitch, insert your crochet hook into the first stitch at the other end of the row from your hook. Place your yarn over the hook, then pull the hook back through the stitch along with the yarn loop already on your crochet hook. Alas, the two ends of the crocheted row are connected.

Sc or Single crochet- To form this stitch, insert your crochet hook into the next stitch. Wrap your yarn around the hook once and pull it through the stitch. You now should have two loops on your crochet hook. Wrap the yarn around the hook again and pull through both loops on the hook. One single crochet is made.

Hdc or Half-double crochet- To make a half-double crochet, wrap the yarn around your crochet hook before inserting into the next stitch. Wrap the yarn over the hook again and pull it through only the stitch. You should have three loops on your crochet hook. Wrap the yarn over the hook once and pull through all the three loops on your hook. One half-double crochet is made.

Dc or Double crochet- Make one double crochet by wrapping your yarn over the hook, then inserting it into the next stitch. Once the hook is through the stitch, wrap the yarn over the hook again and pull it through this stitch. You now have three loops left on your hook. Yarn over the hook again and pull it through the first two loops on your hook. Now there are two loops on your crochet hook. Wrap the yarn over the hook one more time and pull through both loops on your hook. One double crochet is made.

Tr or Treble or Triple crochet- For a treble crochet stitch, wrap your yarn twice over your crochet hook then insert it into the next stitch. Now wrap the yarn around the hook again and pull through the stitch. You should have four loops on your hook. Wrap the yarn over the hook once again and pull through the front two loops. Continue wrapping the yarn over the hook and pull it through two loops until you have one loop remaining on your crochet hook. One treble crochet is made.

Now that you see what all the abbreviations stand for, you can learn what each stitch does to the item you are making. There are a few more terms you have to learn thus to be able to make the correct size, etc. Those being asterisks, gauge, parentheses:

ASTERISKS (*)are used to indicate that a group of stitches or steps are to be repeated the specified number of times. Such as * 1 sc, 1 dc, 1 sc repeat from * across means you make 1 single crochet, 1 double crochet, 1 single crochet until the end of the row.

GAUGE refers to the number of stitches or rows which make up a specified area. Each set of directions lists the gauge obtained by the designer when she or he worked the pattern with the yarn and hooks specified, and is the gauge upon which the directions are based.

PARENTHESES ( ) are used to enclose directions for larger sizes, as listed at the start of each set of directions. They also may indicate that the group of stitches which they enclosed are to be repeated the number of times stated.

Now to pick the right crochet hook to make the item I have chosen. It will be stated in the first of the pattern and the needles or hooks are as follows:

STEEL HOOKS OTHER Hooks

U.S. English Millimeter Letter

1....0 2.......B

2....1 2 1/2....D

3....1 1/2 3.......F

4....2 3 1/2....G

5....2 1/2 4........H

6....3 4 1/2.... I

7....3 1/2 5........J

8....4 6.......K

9....4 1/2

10...5

11...5 1/2

12...6

13...6 1/2

14...7

Now we will discuss YARNS AND THREADS, although we tend to associate wool yarns with knitting and cotton threads with crocheting, the yarn or thread used can, of course, be made of any fiber, natural or synthetic. The synthetics are often machine washable a quality especially desirable in items that will need frequent washing, such as baby clothes.

The yarn weight to be used will be determined by the style of the item you are making. In the beginning of a pattern, you are told what type of yarn to use, and the colors of most pattern yarns. Lighter weight cotton yarns or threads are usually called for when the finer hooks are used for a delicate, soft effect. Heavier ones will be used with larger hooks for a bulkier look. If at all possible, do not substitute other yarns for those called for in the directions, because those directions have been written for the yarn named to determine the size of garment. Always follow your pattern directions and your crocheted piece will turn out to be an item you will cherish.

Linda McRae is a retired Postmaster, who has a business at home. She has written fifteen ezines about the loves of her life, while working from home. This one being about her hobby of crocheting, you can find some beautiful vintage crochet patterns on her website by the same name Vintage Crochet Patterns.

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What Makes An Easy Crochet Pattern? Learning to Read Crochet Patterns

Crochet patterns can look confusing at first. However, once you understand how a pattern works, and become familiar with the more common crochet stitches, you'll find reading crochet patterns one of the easiest aspects of crochet. Learning to read a crochet pattern will help you feel more confident when learning the basics of crochet.

Patterns can be written in several different ways. Crochet instructions can be written out in abbreviations, presented as symbols, or can be a combination of both. While it may take a while to learn the symbols, they can save space, and after awhile, many experienced crocheters find them easier to read. Another good thing about crochet symbols is that they are international, so no matter where the pattern comes from, the symbols will usually be the same.

If you are trying to read and understand a crochet pattern, the best way is to have both the written instructions and the symbols handy. If a series of stitches doesn't making sense by following the written instructions, often the symbols can clarify what is actually meant. Crochet charts and symbols can help clarify written instructions. Some crocheting, such as lace, is actually much easier to follow using a chart, than reading written instructions.

Here are some of the common abbreviations used in crocheting:

sc single crochet

ch st chain stitch

hdc half-double crochet

dc double crochet

sl st slip stitch

trc triple crochet

yo yarn over

tr treble crochet

sp space

sk skip

pat st pattern stitch

When reading crochet instructions, brackets and parentheses are used to convey related stitches. For example, if you came across this- "(sk 3 ch, 4 trc in next chain) across the row", it would first mean you leave three chains unworked, referring to the sk, which stands for skip. In the fourth chain, you would then do four treble crochet stitches. You would then repeat the whole process across the entire row.

When you purchase a crochet book, or patterns, you'll find the abbreviations and symbols will be explained at the beginning. Once you've worked with a few patterns, you'll find yourself much more familiar with the instructions, and you won't need to refer to the book any longer. The crochet symbols will become second nature. Similar, but easier than learning a foreign language, after a bit of study, crochet abbreviations and symbols will make perfect sense!

Amy Wells loves to crochet. Looking for high quality, discount crocheting patterns, supplies, and more? Visit http://www.CrochetingForDummy.com,for a wide variety of discount crochet tools and supplies.

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What is Filet Crochet?

Filet crochet is a series of crocheted mesh stitches crocheted in a certain sequence so that it forms a distinct pattern or picture. It is simple and fun to do, and can grow ultra fast and finished effects can be stunning.

By following a pattern chart you build up a picture or pattern using either the straight line technique or in a round using a mixture of either empty or filled mesh squares. We will only be dealing with the straight line technique in this crochet article.

Mesh stitches are made up using a combination of treble and chain stitches.

These are really all the stitches you will need to know, apart from slip stitch in order to be able to produce your own filet crochet pieces.

Tension is not so important when doing filet crochet. The main concern is that your mesh stitches are square in shape. If your tension is slightly incorrect you may end up with rectangular mesh stitches instead, this does not usually affect the finished product or the pattern. However if you wish to ensure that the mesh stitches are square, crochet up a practice swatch using the same sized hook and yarn as you intend to use for the project you are going to make. Then if the mesh stitches are not square in shape then try a different sized hook.

The important thing is that your mesh stitches are all the same size and shape in order for your desired filet pattern or image to easily show up.

There are not many crochet stitches used in the formation of filet crochet and these are only the basic crochet stitches; chain stitch, slip stitch and treble stitch. To give filet crochet a slightly different look you may see other types of stitches included all made up of the basic crochet stitches.

Filet crochet is usually worked using crochet cotton or thread. However there is nothing to stop you using any type of yarn. Crochet cotton comes in varying thicknesses, it is most usual to use either size 20 or 30. I personally prefer 20.

Using different thicknesses of thread or different types of yarn will vary the size of the square mesh and therefore the size of the finished piece. Always use the correct size crochet hook for your yarn or thread. If in any doubt check the label.

To calculate the finished size of an item, crochet up a practice swatch, using the same size crochet hook and yarn/thread as you will use to make the item. Then measure across 5 squares and then down 5 rows. Look at the pattern you are going to crochet and see how many rows it has in total, call this number Z.

Divide Z by 5 then multiply it by your measurement for the rows. This is how long your finished work will be. Now look again at your pattern and see how many squares it has across one row, divide this number by 5 and then multiply it by your measurement for the 5 squares across. This will be how wide your work will be. It is possible to work out any project in this manner.

The majority of filet crochet patterns only use filled and empty squares. A filled in mesh is made up of 3 treble stitches in a row and an empty one is made up of a treble, a single chain then a treble.

Difficulty arises sometimes as you must remember that these meshes share sides, with the exception of end mesh so it is important to remember this when following a pattern. For those wanting more detailed information on following a filet crochet chart please read the separate article entitled Reading Filet Crochet Patterns.

If you speak to some people regarding filet crochet you may find that they use treble stitches and chain stitches for their squares (mesh) whilst others use double crochet stitches and chains. There is no real difference to either method, use whichever type of stitch you prefer. You may find that your work comes out slightly smaller, in a finer mesh when worked with double crochet stitches or that the meshes produced are more rectangular.

Whichever stitch you decide to use the technique and square (mesh) formations are very similar. Just substitute the double crochet stitch for the trebles used in the pattern above. Then for empty mesh use 2 chain stitches instead of one for the tops and for filled mesh use 4 double crochet in a row.

Ana Smith is a highly skilled crocheter with over thirty years experience and author of http://beginners-crochet.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-crochet-granny-square.html

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Basic Crochet Instructions

Many people decide to take up new hobbies and find the hardest part is learning the basics. Basic crochet instructions can also be difficult to find and it is not a craft you can simply teach yourself without first learning the basic crochet stitches. At times is can be difficult to find anyone else who knows crochet. You will generally have better luck if you have a grandmother who liked to crochet and can teach you. However, many who would like to learn this creative craft simply don't have anyone to show them the basics of crocheting.

Fortunately, the internet generally has information on any hobby you would like to begin. Basic crochet instructions are no different. If you spend a lot of time looking you will find information on this hobby also. Although a lot of people think crocheting is something only older people do, they are wrong. Crocheting is becoming popular again with many young people taking up the craft. This is probably due to the many beautiful items it is possible to create with a little yarn and a crochet hook.

When a person is just getting started in crocheting they will want to begin by learning a few basics. The best place to start would be to learn what a row and a single crochet is.

The first step in basic crochet instructions would be to obtain a few basic crochet supplies. You will need a crochet hook. You can usually find a packet of hooks that include different sizes. You should select one that includes a size G crochet hook as it is one of the most common. You will also need yarn, small scissors, and a yarn needle.

To begin any crochet project you will need to create a slipped knot with the loop on your crochet hook. This can be done by making a loop and hold it between your thumb and fore finger on your left hand. With the crochet hook in your right hand, pull the yarn through the loop you created, then pull the thread through a second time. At this time pull the thread at the bottom of the loop tight and you should have a knot and be ready to continue with your crocheting.

The second thing you will need to know is how to make a chain stitch. This is the very basic stitch you will need to begin any crochet pattern. Once you have your slipped know created all you have to do is have the loop on your crochet hook and then wrap the yarn around your hook and draw the yarn through the loop. Although this can sound very confusing it is really quite easy and you will soon be amazed at how quickly you learn to do this.

One of the most basic crochet stitches is the single crochet. You can accomplish this stitch after you have created your chain. You will simply insert your crochet hook into one of the chain stitches you created and wrap the yarn on the hook and pull through. Of course a picture is worth a thousand works when you are learning a new hobby, so look around and find a picture and you will have that wonderful ah ha moment which will send you on your way.

Of course these are just the basic crochet instructions and there are a lot more stitches that you can learn. Each crochet pattern will have it's own stitches it uses, but after you learn the basic stitches the rest will be much easier to learn.

To learn more about the different crochet stitches [http://www.besthomemadegiftideas.com/different-crochet-stitches.html] you can visit Cheryl at [http://www.besthomemadegiftideas.com].

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Eight More Essential Crochet Tips

Once you begin crocheting and have mastered the basic stitches there is always little problems that crop up inhibiting your progress and ruining the finish of your work. By following these crocheting tips you will ensure a neater and more even finish to your work each and every time you crochet.

Tip 1: Not enough space when working in the round.

Sometimes when working in the round there does not seem as if there is enough space to work all of the appropriate stitches into the centre ring. If you have this problem DO NOT work over the top of the previously worked stitches, instead do the following:

1. Enlarge the last loop on your hook and remove the hook from your work.

2. Starting at the beginning of the round gently push your stitches up together creating a space at the end of the round.

3. Re-insert your hook, tighten the loop and continue crocheting.

4. Repeat this process until you have finished the round.

Tip 2: Unexpected holes in your work or stretched stitches.

Sometimes you may find that you have a few holes in your crocheting that should not be there, or that some of the stitches seem to have stretched as the next row seems to be pulling them. The reason for this is usually simple; you are not crocheting into the correct part of the stitch in the previous row.

To rectify this always ensure that after inserting your hook into the stitch on the row below that you have gone through both loops of the stitch, unless the pattern tells you otherwise, as in loopy holey patterns.

Tip 3: Split Stitches.

Should you notice a split stitch, do not just leave it. This makes your work look very unsightly as it leaves little parts of stitches across the pattern, which are very noticeable and detracts from the true crochet pattern. The time it takes to rectify these split stitches will be well rewarded in having work look neat and tidy.

Should you find a split stitch remove your hook from your crocheting, undo everything up to and including the split stitch, reinsert your hook and recommence crocheting again. It really is worth the extra effort!

Tip 4: Finding it hard to crochet into the foundation row.

The first row of any crochet project is always the hardest. It can be very difficult to crochet into a line of chain stitches especially if you are using thin yarn and a small hook!

If you are finding it hard to crochet the first row, try crocheting the foundation row with a hook one size larger than the one required for the pattern. This will make the chain foundation row a little looser and the stitches a little larger. This will not show on the end result but will aid you when trying to insert your normal hook into the correct part of your many chain stitches.

Tip 5: Crocheting beginning to curl.

If you find when working the straight line technique that your work is beginning to curl after working the first couple of rows, it is due to your tension. You have crocheted the foundation row tighter than you have crocheted the rest of the pattern. To solve this you have two options:

1. Use a hook one size larger to crochet the foundation row than the hook required to crochet the pattern.

2. Use the same sized hook but make your work (foundation row) a lot looser.

Tip 6: Trouble seeing where you should be crocheting.

When first learning to crochet it can be difficult to see exactly what part of the stitch you should be crocheting into, especially if you use dark coloured yarn. So when first learning to crochet use light coloured yarns and threads, which makes the stitches so much easier to see. Progress onto darker colours as your knowledge and confidence grows.

Tip 7: Losing stitches.

Counting your stitches is one of the most important tips to crocheting successfully. It is also one of the most common problems to find that after crocheting a row you have less stitches than the pattern says you should have, or with which you started with if not following a crochet pattern. The very most common mistake is to lose stitches at the beginning and/or ends of rows. This is due to omitting working in the first or last stitch of a row. So if you find yourself in this position check your beginnings and ends of your rows before looking at the body of the row itself!

Tip 7: Rectangular work tapering inwards or outwards.

This problem follows on from the one above and is due to either increasing or decreasing stitches without realising it! You should count your stitches regularly to ensure that you have not missed any out or inadvertently increased any. Again losing or adding stitches at the beginning or end of garments is the most common error and should be checked before preceding to check the body of the row.

Hopefully some of these tips will be useful with your next crochet project. Just keeping these pointers in mind next time you pick up your crochet hook will in itself help your crocheting to look more professional and neat.

Ana Smith is a highly skilled crocheter with over thirty years experience and author of http://beginners-crochet.blogspot.com/2009/02/seven-important-crochet-tips-to.html

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Crocheting for Beginners - The Basics

If you are in search for a new creative hobby or craft, may I suggest checking out crocheting for beginners. In addition to the fun and beneficial factors involved in the crocheting, there are incredible by-products.

Crocheting is the creative process of making fabrics out of yarns or threads using a crochet hook. Basically, the technique used in crochet involves pulling loops of yarn through other loops.

What is Crochet?

One of the first uses of crochet was in the 1800s, when it was used as a substitute for expensive lace. In the 1950s, modern crochet as we recognize it today became common in fashion, in part because it was affordable to both buy and create. Today crochet is more popular than ever and it is relatively easy for beginners to learn and create beautiful things.

Basic crocheting can be done by learning just a few basic stitches and using them to follow simple patterns. Most beginner level patterns include 4 basic stitches: the slip stitch, a basic chain, a single crochet, and a double crochet. Learning those 4 simple stitches is enough to get a beginner started. Crocheted fabrics are created by repeating chains of these 4 simple stitches.

Is This the Craft for You?

With all of the different hobby and craft options, crochet is a perfect choice for many reasons. Besides the obvious calming and stress-reducing effects it brings, crocheting also is a great choice for beginners because it is not difficult to learn and it allows for incredible creative freedom and gives an outlet for self expression. With crochet, you get to actually wear your creation.

Crochet is also an inexpensive craft. The basic cost of crocheting for beginners is the cost of some yarn and a crochet hook. A skein of yarn can be found in most craft or fabric stores for less than $10 and a crochet hook can be bought for under $5. Many beginner patterns and even video directions can easily be found online for free.

Another benefit of crocheting is that it is extremely portable and can be done anywhere. The supplies for this creative expression can easily be transported and can also be done while watching TV or relaxing out in the garden. This is a perfect craft for people who like to multitask and can be done whether you enjoy working alone or in a crowd.

Completing a crochet project provides a great sense of achievement and pride, and many can be finished in short amounts of time. Handmade crochet projects also make inexpensive and beautiful personal gifts.

You will quickly find that the more you crochet, the better your skill gets. We all start out as beginners, but as with most crafts, the more you practice the faster you move from novice to expert. A beginner can easily make a scarf, or a hat, or even a blanket in any color or size or shape you can dream up.

Really, crocheting for beginners is only limited by your imagination. The only caution you should be aware of is that this hobby can be extremely addictive! The therapeutic effects of crochet are legendary, and you will be hard pressed to find another hobby this enjoyable that's not fattening!

Find out more about crocheting for beginners at Crochet Central and become a Crochet Master.

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The Craft of Crochet

The early development of the craft of crochet is linked to the imitation of lace and lace making.

The word crochet comes from the French 'croche' or 'croc' meaning to hook.

In the 16th century nuns taught the craft to their students and it became a recognised accomplishment of a high-born lady. Crochet was considered to be suitable only for the rich with the poorer people having knitted items.

In the 1840s crochet instructions began to be published and so crochet became more popular. Before this time crochet had been handed down through families with each generation passing on the skills.

Many older patterns contained just a picture with just a few of the more complicated sections explained, as a consequence you were expected to work from the picture for the majority of the pattern!

Irish crochet is often considered to be crocheting at its highest expression and is done with the finest thread and hooks in intricate patterns, usually displaying a motif of leaves or flowers set in an open web-like background.

When trying to imitate lace very fine threads and hooks were used but nowadays it is more usual to use soft yarns to produce clothing, home furnishings and wall displays.

How to Crochet

When you begin to crochet you start with a slip stitch on a hook. However, unlike knitting, crochet uses this single starting loop to work a row of individual chain stitches. So each new loop is formed by catching the yarn and drawing it through the previous loop.

Then you work back along this series of chain stitches, each new stitch being looped through a stitch in the previous row.

Each stitch is completed when only a single loop remains on your crochet hook, and then the next stitch is worked. Although this may sound complicated in practise it is very easy to do.

By using various combinations of stitches it is possible to create a variety of textures and patterns. These combinations can have descriptive names such as pineapple and popcorn as well as the more usual chain, double, and treble.

An Ideal Craft for the Busy Person

Crochet can be done with the minimum amount of equipment and mess, and is very quick to tidy away.

This makes crochet an ideal craft to do when you're travelling. There is only your yarn and a crochet hook, and possibly a crochet pattern, to carry. If you drop a stitch or make a mistake it is easy to pull the work back to a 'correct' single loop and restart from there.

Crochet Pattern e-books

Crochet pattern e-books are great value and very convenient. You can print out just the instructions for the pattern you are making.

This allows you to have only a page or two for your pattern and you do not need to carry a whole crochet book.

If the pages you've printed get damaged or lost it is easy to print the pattern again from the e-book allowing you to complete your project.

Crochet is an interesting hobby. You can crochet straight forward items almost immediately and once you've mastered the basics you can go onto the more complicated patterns when you fancy a challenge.

Catherine Calder sells crochet instruction videos that are ideal for beginners. These computer video files show the basic crochet stitches and all the stages to crocheting your first Granny Square. Visit http://www.learnanddo.com/crochet.asp

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Common Crochet Stitch Guide

Check out the most common crochet stitches with this crochet stitch guide. These stitches are the building blocks of crochet. When you're learning to crochet, you learn those stitches first before moving on to pattern stitches.

A pattern stitch consists of ordered stitches that are repeated to make textures, shells and clusters, as well as decorative motifs. You use pattern stitches to create crocheted items such as scarves, hats, baby blankets and more.

You can find pattern stitches in crochet books or pattern leaflets, and on the Internet. With practice, you can learn to individualize a written pattern by using different crochet hooks or yarns. A stitch pattern can be as simple as two rows, or as complex as twelve. A row counter can help you keep track of where you are.

Texture Crochet Stitches

Texture crochet patterns use basic crochet stitches to create a multitude of compact patterns.

The alternate stitch is done on a multiple of two chains plus two for turning. Begin by making a chain the length you need, turn it, and after skipping three chains (the turning chain), make two single crochet in the next chain (or stitch, in later rows). Then skip a chain (or stitch) and chain one. Repeat that to the last stitch or chain, make two single crochets in the last stitch, chain two and turn. The second row will make the two crochet stitches in the single chain spaces, and skip and chain over the two crochets in the previous row. Those two rows make up a pattern that looks something like a leaf when it's made up.

The double stitch is similar to the alternate stitch, but instead of making two single crochets in one stitch, it spans two stitches. Insert your crochet hook in the stitch to be worked, wrap the yarn over it so you pull back a loop, then insert the crochet hook into the next stitch. Yarn over so you'll pull back an additional loop, then pull the yarn through all three loops on the hook. Repeat the double stitch over each pair of stitches in the row. With a soft, washable crochet yarn, this pattern makes a warm baby blanket.

Other texture stitches include:

Up and down, which alternates single and double stitches.
Checker board pattern created by alternating groups of three or four single and double crochet stitches.
Woven stitch made by crocheting a single crochet in a chain stitch, chaining one and skipping the next stitch, and then crocheting another single crochet. Repeat this across the first row, then crochet one in the chain space of the previous row, skipping and chaining one over the single crochets in the previous row.
Diagonal stitch, which uses long stitches pulled across groups of three single or double crochet stitches.


There are many more texture stitches. Once you've tried a few, you may start coming up with textures of your own.

Shell or Fan Pattern Stitches

The shell or fan stitch is one of the most popular designs for baby blankets, throws and afghans. A shell is a group of three to five stitches worked into a single stitch or chain space. The group will be closer together at the bottom and spread out at the top, so each group looks like a fan or seashell.

A simple shell has a double crochet in one stitch, then two double crochet, a single chain, and two more double crochets all in the next stitch. Another double crochet is made in the next stitch, but the loop is carried across three skipped stitches, and a smaller fan is made. Each large shell is crocheted into the skipped stitch of the shell below it, creating a scalloped edge.

Variations on the shell can be made by crocheting small shells in narrow chain spaces, creating an open, delicate pattern ideal for baby clothes or blankets. By making large shells over large open areas, you can create an arch-like pattern. Make a fan opening upward over one opening down, and you'll have a beautiful starburst pattern.

Cluster Crochet Stitch Patterns

The best known cluster stitch is probably the bobble stitch. The bobble is usually between a pair of single crochet stitches, and is created by doing a yarn over, inserting the crochet hook into the bobble's base stitch and pulling a loop out. You then do another yarn over, pulling the yarn through two of the stitches on the hook. This is repeated five times in the base stitch, resulting in six loops remaining on the hook. The yarn is pulled through all six loops to create the bobble, then secured by making a single crochet in the stitch that follows it.

Another popular cluster pattern is the pineapple stitch. Worked on a multiple of two plus four, the pineapple is made by doing a yarn over, inserting the crochet hook in a single stitch, and pulling up a loop four times, making a yarn over. Draw the crochet yarn through eight loops, then make another yarn over and pull the yarn through the last two loops. Unlike bobbles, pineapples aren't usually anchored with single crochet stitches. Instead, a stitch is skipped between each pineapple, and a chain is made over the skipped stitch. In the next row, the pineapples are made in the chain space between the pineapples on the previous row. The top of the pineapple is skipped and a chain is made above it.

You should now have a better idea of the kind of designs you can make with basic crochet stitches. Find some crochet books, search the Web and, after making some patterns, try creating some of your own.

For more information on crochet, visit the hobbies section of Life123.com.

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Crochet Supplies

Crochet (pronounced kro-sh-A) is a way to make fabric from thread, and is similar to knitting, which requires several needles to pull loops of yarn through other loops.

Crocheting usually requires a single crochet hook, which is a needle with a hook, and is used to draw thread through knotted loops. Whether you are crocheting a blanket, an article of clothing, or an accessory, you will need a few necessary crochet supplies to get you started. Necessary crochet supplies will depend on the complexity of the pattern and article being created.

Basic Crochet Supplies

The basic crochet supplies needed will be a crochet needle and some thread, but the desire to create more complex items may result in the need for various needles, different types of yarn, more complex patterns, instructional books, beads, ribbon, sequins, tape measure, pompon circle and other materials to enhance and beautify the crochet item.

Crochet Hooks

Crochet hooks come in many sizes and generally match the thickness of the thread being used. Crochet supplies, like crochet hooks, can be made of plastic, metal, wood, bone and other materials. Crochet hook sizes vary with the type of material they are made of, and may be in millimeters from 3.5 to 0.4, numbers from 00 to 16, or letters from B to S.

The style of crochet hook you would use varies with the type of crochet and pattern being used. Tunisian crochet hooks are lengthened and have a stopper at the last part of the handle; a variation of the Tunisian hook is the Cro-hook, a double ended hook is used to make double sided crochet, which uses two thread colors at the same time.

Some people with Arthritis or medical issues may need ergonomic crochet hooks, which are designed for this purpose. The bottom line is to always buy the best quality crochet hooks you can afford.

Crochet Materials

Most crochet materials are generally known as yarn or thread, and come in various thicknesses and textures. There are several types of yarn used, and they vary with the article being made and pattern being used. The types are Bulky weight, which is used for heavy and warm garments; Worsted weight is used for scarves, sweaters and mittens; Sport weight is used for sweaters and baby items and Fingering weight is used for light items such as socks, light sweaters and some baby items; these are the main yarn crochet supplies for making most items. Yarn fibers can be made of acrylic, wool, alpaca, cotton, silk, cashmere and many other fibers.

Crochet Supplies and Accessories

Instruction books are a necessity for the beginner, while more advanced patterns are necessary to make more complex clothing and other items. The amount of crochet supplies needed, will depend on whether you are a novice, or advanced at crocheting.

Have a great day.

Paul Mackie

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Tips and Information on Afghan Crochet Patterns

In a particular aspect of sewing, crocheting, as one way of creating a work of art out of some pieces of threads in a yarn, is another form of strategy that enables an individual to make something out of a simple element.

Through this process, one can create a special kind of baby dress, a hat, or any garment that one could use to create a fashion statement. With the combination of supple materials such as the yarn and the different fundamental "crochet stitches," different items can also be made.

One of the most popular products of crocheting is the afghan. From babies to old people, afghan had been used, reused, and was handed down from one generation to another as it remained fashionable and durable blanket after so many years had passed.

What is the reason? It is based on the way the material was made. This is because afghans are made through the remarkable methods of crocheting. With the meticulous combinations of different crochet stitches and the careful manipulation of the creator in order to come up with a good material, afghan crochets are, indeed, one of the best products this kind of pastime has ever made.

The history of afghan can be traced back to the time when "Afghan Oriental rugs" were still very popular. Most of the people contend that the popular rugs bear a resemblance to the afghan crochets. Hence, from that time on most of the people that time had started associating this kind of crochet to the oriental rug. Even if there were no solid validity as to whether the name "afghan" was derived from the popular rugs, the name just stuck as history unfolds itself.

It is interesting to note that people who are trying to learn the basic of crocheting considers the creation of an afghan as their initial full-size endeavor. The reason behind this particular preference is that the concept of making afghan crochet is absolutely simple, with no fuss and difficulty. Besides, the main component of making afghan crochets is more on the utilization of the fundamental crochet stitches along with the different afghan crochet patterns.

Along with the simplicity of the item is the pattern. In fact, crochet experts contend that, just like any sewing endeavor, crocheting would not be easy to deal with if there were no patterns available to serve as a guide.

Since its inception, there are many different afghan crochet patterns that were established in the market already. This is in connection to the demands of the "crochet fanatics" who requested for more patterns to use so that they could make results that are more varied.

However, even if there are more modernized afghan patterns made available in the industry today, still the basic and the most fundamental afghan crochet patterns are the best.

To know more about that, here is a list of some of the most common and most simple to use afghan crochet patterns:

1. One could make a simple yet very elegant afghan crochet using the single crochet pattern. One good thing about this pattern is that it only uses either a pattern of stripes with varied colors or a dense and continuous color.

With its solidness, single crochet pattern for afghans are usually used when making a cover for a chair or on a bed.

2. The Granny square afghan is one of the most popular patterns in making afghan crochets. Based on its name, this particular afghan crochet pattern entails the utilization of distinct shapes such as rounds or squares. These shapes are crocheted separately and then they are fastened together in various motifs and figures.

3. The Chevron stripe crochet pattern is very helpful for people who are just learning crocheting. It is one good way of learning the basics of crochet as they try to create a masterpiece at the same time.

These are just a few of the many afghan crochet patterns that every person would be interested to use. Whatever afghan crochet patterns you will use, just keep in mind that the real beauty of the product is based on the reason that it was made.

Loves providing Crochet tips, patterns and other online resources.

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Sources for Carrie Crochet purchase

Crocheting is now coming back as a great hobby for most women especially those who are just staying at home. There are thousands of different things that can be done with crocheting that hobbyists can make themselves busy with for quite a period of time.

One of the variations of crochet products that can be found even in your famous boutiques is the carrie crochet. It is difficult to define what carrie crochet in particular is. There are online shops and fashion boutiques that have crocheted items named Carrie. There is also a particular web site about Carrie's crochet products. Nevertheless, they are all good finds and crochet hobbyists may want to take a look at them and check if they can make one for themselves.

Here are some of the Carrie crochet items that can be found in the World Wide Web:

- Carrie Crochet Hat. This simple yet stylish hat is hand crocheted using 100% cotton yarn. Its head part is just plain with rainbow pattern on the brim. It covers the head totally which makes it fashionable. It is available in 3 colors - beige, pink and pastel blue. This nice-looking hat can be purchased from Headcovers Unlimited for $19.99.

- Carrie purse. This red and silver, elegant-looking purse is made from the festive fur kind of yarn. This design was created by a Daily Knitter staff and can be seen from their website. This is not for sale though, but instead, a pattern is provided for one to follow.

- Carrie Cotton Crochet for Kids. Little Lids came up with their line spring and summer styles for kids. One of those is this carrie cotton crochet hat that has a snuggle design. This one is totally handmade with a soft, pink, cotton yarn. This flower hat designed with ruffles will surely look lovely in your little lady.

- Fossil's Carrie Sweater. Fossil has its own version of a carrie crochet in the form of a sweater. This elegantly crocheted piece of fashion clothing has a 6-button opening and a ribbon. It is available in three different colors - bracken, safari, and silver pine green. Sizes available are from extra small to extra large. One can get this from Fossil at $54.

- Guess Carrie Crochet Corset. Yet another popular brand in fashionable clothes has its own carrie crochet. This tan-colored corset is handmade with ramie-cotton blend. It has a square neck with floral crochet designs along the top edges. It closes in front with a ribbon lace up tied at the hem. Simple yet elegant looking, this corset is available in three sizes - small, medium and large. The price of this nice piece of clothing is CAD $69.25 from Guess' online store.

- Carrie's Crochet Page. This web site showcases Carrie's crochet projects for sale. There are different hats and shawls available starting at $20. There are pillow cases, mats and rugs in different colors and styles. Men's and ladies' sweatshirts are also available that ranges from $45 to $55. Most of the crocheted bed covers are in black and white and usually with diamond patterns. These are surely nice additions to your room and all around the house.

One will surely not be bored in selecting crochet designs because each piece can be different from another. For those who know how to do it, they definitely will not be bored on same projects again and again because there are literally thousands of patterns available from different sources such as the internet or from needle craft books.

Origins of Crochet

There are indeed more and more people getting hooked into this hobby. But do you know where this hobby actually started and when?

There are a number of articles released talking about the history of this not-so-easy-to-learn needle craft. But almost all of those do not exactly say when crocheting actually began. It might really be difficult to trace back the roots of this hobby.

However, there are some researches that suggest that crochet must have developed from Chinese needlework and reached Europe in 1700s. But many still believe the possibility of it being started as early as the 1500s.

But no matter when and where crochet started, it is still making its name again in the arts and crafts scene and gaining fame to most people all over the world.

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Easy Pattern For Filet Crochet Potholder

This filet crochet potholder is an excellent project for someone who is just learning this new skill. In this technique the shapes in the patterning are formed by solid and open squares formed by blocks and spaces. This type of crochet is always worked in straight rows.

The blocks are formed by double crochet and the spaces by chains, each space divided from the next one by one double crochet.

How to make spaces (sp) for this potholders pattern:

1 space = 1 chain, 1 double crochet (1ch, 1dc)

Spaces are the open mesh in the crochet lace pattern. Make one double crochet (dc), one chain (1ch), skip one stitch from the previous row and make one more double crochet stitch.

How to make blocks (blk) for this potholder pattern:

1 block = 2 double crochet

Blocks are the filled mesh spaces in the filet lace pattern. When a block is made over an open mesh space then one double crochet should be put directly into the space over the chain stitch. When blocks are touching each other, there are three double crochet stitches in the first block and two in each consecutive block.

What you will need:


2 balls of 50 grams 4 PLY crochet cotton. We used 2 different colours for this pattern (white and blue). Hereafter called colour 1 and colour 2.
1 crochet hook no. 2

Crochet instructions:

This filet crochet potholder pattern is easy to follow from the chart that has open spaces and black blocks. Follow the instructions above about how to make crochet spaces and blocks.

Abbreviations:

Chain stitch ch

Double crochet dc

Single crochet sc

Slip stitch sl st

Begin with a foundation chain of 42ch + 4ch (in colour 1)

Row 1: Insert hook in 6th chain from the end, crochet 1dc, * 1ch, 1dc*, repeat *pattern till the end of the row. (You should have 21 spaces).

Row 2: 4ch, *7dc in every next stitch of previous row, 1ch*, repeat* 4x, 1dc.

Row 3 + 4: as row 2.

Row 5: 4ch, 1dc, *1ch, 1dc*, repeat until end of row.

Repeat rows 2, 3, 4 and 5 four times.

Once completed the pattern cast off.

Make this pattern four times - twice in colour 1 and twice in colour 2. Each potholder is crochet twice. The double layer makes it more heat resistant and prevents burning your fingers.

How to crochet the border:


For the potholder in colour 1, use colour 2 for the border and of course for the potholder in colour 2, use colour 1 for the border.
Put the two sides on top of each other. Make sure the pattern matches.
Then crochet 1sc in the third space from a corner, 1ch, 1sc, 1ch repeat until all four sides are completed, close this row with a slip stitch.
Next row, make 1sc over next ch of previous row, 2ch, skip sc previous row, 1sc, 2ch repeat until all four sides are completed, close row with a slip stitch.

Now crochet a hanging loop:

Without casting off make a chain of 15ch, join with 1sc round the corner (same distance as the other side). Turn work and crochet 20sc over chain. Finish with a sl st and cast off.

For more crochet stitches, crochet patterns and other crochet resources by Janna Halioris visit Top Crocheting and Crocheting Quick Guide

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Vintage Crochet Patterns - As Old As Time

Crocheting, I bet you've heard of this before. Most people have, it's a hobby as old as time. It's been around for years, and it's been estimated that the hobby started as far back as the 1500s! Unfortunately no proof has ever been brought forth as to when it actually originated.

Have you ever wondered where and when this needlework hobby started? According to the September 1997 newsletter of the Crochet Guild of America, a researcher theorized that the art of crochet could be traced as far back as 1500s in Italy. However, there is no solid evidence for this statement.

But even so, we can only imagine that this craft has been around for the longest time. And it has evolved from making only home décor works to stitching clothes and other fashion accessories as well.

Reminiscing

Crocheting can let you do a lot of things. From small purses to jackets and sweaters, there are a lot of options to choose from. But there are probably some hobbyists that are looking for those old, classic patterns that can usually be seen during the early 1900s or even earlier. To help you in finding those hard-to-look for patterns, here are some resources that you can check out in the World Wide Web.

- Vintage Crochet Patterns. Tabitha Gibbons, the owner of this web site, offers several volumes of crochet patterns books. She sells a wide selection of vintage crochet patterns, from little doilies, rugs, afghans to bed covers and table cloths. By visiting her web site, one can fill out the name and email form to receive a free pattern book.

- Crochet Treasures. "Patterns from the past; Creating heirlooms for tomorrow..." This is the slogan of this web site with a collection of classic patterns. It is a member-based site that offers over 950 vintage patterns to its subscribers. For visitors, it also offers about 25 free vintage crochet patterns for personal use. However, it is not accepting new members at the moment until further notice by the owner.

- Celt's Vintage Crochet. Yet another vintage crochet patterns site, this really has a wide variety of vintage patterns to choose from. And the best thing about this site is that all of these patterns are for free! It also showcases the owner's finished projects, most of which are doilies and other table accessories.

- Soft Memories. This site brings you back to the past with its collection of more than a thousand vintage crochet patterns. The patterns are grouped in different categories - doilies, bed jackets and slippers, hanky edgings, potholders, ruffles and flowers, doll clothes, and other home décor pieces. All of these patterns can be viewed and printed out by subscribing to the site. There are also a few free patterns available for visitors to get a peak of what the site has to offer.

- Vintage Crochet Patterns e-book. This sort-of e-book contains 20 wonderful vintage patterns that are easy to crochet and can be hits in fairs and bazaars. Some examples of the patterns available are the crochet work bag, beaded doily, and the wedding ring bedspread. This is a portable document file (pdf) that can be downloaded for free from Crochet and Knitting web site.

- 1800's to Early 1900's Vintage Pattern Links. This site, authored by a lady named Martha who is also known as StarGazer, has several links to patterns that were designed way back 1800s up to 1930s. These patterns can be accessed for free. The site also has links to other web sites that offer vintage crochet patterns.

- Antique Crochet Patterns. This section in the web site Knitting-Crochet has almost a hundred of vintage patterns categorized into baby pieces, men's or ladies' wear, slippers, tablecloth, doily, and many others. It also offers to convert your knitting patterns to crochet and vice versa. Best of all, these patterns are free to access and print for personal use!

- Antique Crochet Patterns. This one is different from the site above as this is the web site name itself, not just a section. This site offers vintage crochet patterns from 1850s to 1950s and all of these are baby items such as bonnet, booties, hat, jumper, afghan, and a lot more. It also provides free lesson for the wannabes and beginners of this needlecraft.

These are just a few of the tons of resources you can find online that offers hard-to-find vintage patterns. Whether free or fee-based, these sites and resources can surely take you back in time with the wonderful, classical patterns that they offer.

If you are a crochet hobbyist you may seriously consider checking out these online resources. You should be able to find a huge variety of patterns for free, as well as purchasable ones. Whether you're a crochet master, or a novice of this eloquent hobby, these patterns will surely please you in many ways.

To learn more about getting started in crochet please visit [http://www.startcrocheting101.com] now.

Crocheting is a great pasttime with lots of history behind it. If you are interested in learning more about beginning crochet or are already involved and would like to further your knowledge, please visit [http://www.startcrocheting101.com].

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Crocheting Information

Crocheting can let you do a lot of things, say from small purses to jackets and sweaters. The options that are available are numerous. Crochet pattern publishing companies are often looking for pattern testers. Contact several companies and offer to review patterns. Crochet patterns supplied by Chinese manufacturers with the most competitive prices and superb quality. Listings will lead you right to crucial data such as company brief introduction business type, main products, target market, contact information, certifications and more.

Crotchetier should not restrict themselves strictly to the instructions of the pattern. It is important to exercise some personal judgment that will help enhance the appearance of the project.. These references are most helpful to those who are new to the hobby, but even the advanced expert can benefit from the use of crochet patterns. Crocheting can let you do a lot of things, say from small purses to jackets and sweaters. The options that are available are numerous. Crochet pattern publishing companies are often looking for pattern testers. Crochet patterns supplied by Chinese manufacturers with the most competitive prices and superb quality.

There are many more new pattern books with modern patterns being printed, and most yarn stores now offer crochet lessons in addition to the traditional knitting lessons. Filet crochet , Tunisian crochet , broomstick lace , hairpin lace , cro-hooking , and Irish crochet are all variants of the basic crochet method. Most of the time, these magazines feature easy crochet patterns that are meant for beginners and even accomplished crotchetier. Expert crotchetier who have been doing crocheting for a long, long time design the patterns often printed in craft magazines.

Anyone who crochets will tell you that the ability to design and make with their own two hands a variety of beautiful and completely unique pieces is absolutely priceless. For beginners, the completion of that first blanket, first scarf, first table cover, brings with it a joy that had been previously unknown.

And to give away crochet Christmas stockings is just one of the many great ideas that you can make out of crocheting. All crochet projects begin with a slip knot. With the palm of your hand facing you, place the end of the yarn across the palm of your hand from right to left and back around to cross over your palm again laying it across the end of the first strand of yarn.

Expert crotchetier who have been doing crocheting for a long, long time design the patterns often printed in craft magazines. 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. When laid flat, it looks like a huge piece of crocheted square pattern with a hole in the middle. This one is simple and easy to make crocheted afghan cover is a grand giveaway for relatives and friends. It can serve as a wrap or shawl as nicely as a blanket during cold nights. The dilemma of finding window accents of the right size or color can be eliminated quickly using crochet window accent patterns, this alone can save hours of shopping. The particular design or style that is necessary for your decorating scheme may not always be available commercially, but with crocheted window accents you can always find a pattern that will work or can be easily adapted with a little imagination.

A huge variety of free and commercial crochet patterns are available, covering a wide variety of uses. Changes in fashion mean that during different eras, different types of crocheted products are popular. If you're new to crocheting with wire, try not to crochet too tightly; allow the wire to flow freely through your fingers. Bead crochet bags could be made without extensive planning and included more freeform techniques. Bead knitted and crocheted items continued in popularity through the early 1900?s. Whether you are looking for a Halloween costume for the little one or a runner for the holiday table, Alternately, you can have free crochet patterns from crochet books, craft magazines and from libraries. However, the Internet seems to be the viable option as you can get all your free patterns by sitting in the comfort of your home.

These references are most helpful to those who are new to the hobby, but even the advanced expert can benefit from the use of crochet patterns. Some suggest that a knitting or crochet bag might be a good step to keep your items organized and contained. However you can probably wait until your supplies and collection really gets going.

We plan to post more articles about crocheting. We want to help the newbie in this craft to get started. Check our site for more information [http://www.howtocrochetguide.com]

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