1. Learning how to crochet can be fun and relaxing. You will take delight in watching a project starting with hook an thread turn into something useful like sweaters, potholders, and afghans. Perhaps you desire instructions on how to crochet but think it is too hard. Crochet is really easy once you master the basics.

    Crochet involves pulling loops through loops with a hooked needle. The origins of crochet are scarce but scholars believe it derived from a type of needlework known as tamboring. Tamboring was made with a fine needle on cloth. It was soon discovered the stitches could stand alone.  However, the crochet we know today didn’t begin until about the last half of the 19th century. At first, only the wealthy could enjoy crochet but now it is enjoyed by all social classes and genders.

    Some don’t know how to start crocheting. It has a language all of its own so beginners get confused about all the terms. They usually give up out of frustration but that doesn’t have to be the case for you. Here are the rudiments on how to crochet.

    Crochet Supplies

    Crochet supplies include hooks, yarn, rulers, markers, tapestry needles, and scissors. Crochet hooks have a bent end they come in several sizes ranging from B1 to H8. They can be made from aluminum, steel, bone, or plastic. The higher number mean bigger hooks. Steel crochet hooks are used with finer threads like size 10 cotton. They range in sizes 00 to 10; ten being the smallest.

    The larger hooks are suggested for beginners because they are easier to hold. Yarns come in many varieties but beginners are recommended to start with 4 -ply worsted weight or 3 -ply sport-weight.  Ply is the number of strands that are woven together to make the yarn. Novelty yarns and fine thread may slip out of your hands if you aren’t experienced. Tapestry needles and scissors are needed for weaving in and cutting loose ends.  Tapestry needles usually have long eyes  and dull points mainly used for embroidery. Markers help you find the start of a row. These can be an scrap piece of yarn or you can buy the split rings. A ruler is important to measure gauge. If the gauge is incorrect, the project will be too large or too small.

    Understanding Crochet Patterns

    Crochet patterns are the blueprint for projects. Most are graded according to skill level firm easy to advanced. Easy patterns have very little shaping and basic stitches. Intermediate patterns may use basic stitches,  an assortment of techniques like lace, color work, and moderate shaping and finishing techniques. Advanced patterns will use complex stitch patterns, different color techniques, smaller hooks, and a mixture of techniques.  New comers should not go past their skill level. Patterns have  a language all their own. Here are some common symbols and abbreviations.
    ( ) Follow the direction in parenthesis.
    * repeat from where instructed to **
    ch chain stitch
    Sl st slip stitch
    Sc single crochet
    Dc double crochet
    Hdc half double crochet
    Trc triple crochet
    Rnd round

     

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