Crochet. Yes, the thing that your granny probably does in the afternoon with her cup of tea while answering the questions on The Chase.
Crochet has been around for literal years and originated in Arabia. It’s a form of crafting by interlocking loops of wool. The name itself comes from the French term crochet meaning small hook. The hooks can be made from metal, wood, bamboo or plastic.Â
Crochet is very different from knitting. The main difference between crochet and knitting, bar the fact knitting uses two needles and crochet one hook is that each stitch in crochet is completed before you start the next one. This isn’t the case with knitting as you leave multiple stitches open at once which can lead to tears if your needle falls out of your row.
Crocheting can be seen as a daunting craft, especially when you see people who have been doing it for years motoring away with whatever they’re making at a hundred miles a minute.
But have very little fear, I hope to convert you to the ways you can learn how to crochet and the things you can make by the end of this article.
For learning, the internet has many resources for learning how to crochet. YouTube is overflowing with videos on how to begin learning how to crochet along with more advanced videos and pattern tutorials. Also, maybe think about joining a local knitting and crocheting group! Learning from someone in person could work better for you than learning from a video or diagram on the internet.
Crocheting something can be easy. Finding patterns to follow is really easy as the internet is full of the. Some of them may even offer video tutorials on how to do a specific stitch or an explanation for that new term you really haven’t a clue about. The best thing is, there are hundreds of patterns online that are actually free. I’m never one to turn my nose up at something free, I’m sure you wouldn’t either!
When you start to learn how to crochet, start at the beginner level. There’s no point in frustrating yourself with a pattern that is marked as intermediate just because you really want to make it. Starting with beginner patterns will allow you to build your skill and your knowledge!Â
Starting with an easy pattern is great, but your choice of hook and wool will also help you too. If you choose a hook that is large and wool that is large and bright it’ll be a big help as you can see clearly where you’ll be placing your hook. Also, who doesn’t love a bright colour!
One thing I love to do with the things I crochet is giving them as gifts. I always feel like there’s something so personal and thoughtful about giving someone a gift you made yourself with a skill you have. It can be really meaningful.
I’m also an advocate for donating these things that I make to charities that can sell them for a profit! Loads of hospitals look for baby blankets and blankets for children with cancer along with hats and cuddly toys. If you can help out a local charity with your skill, I’d highly recommend it.
So, there you have it. Your one-stop-shop for you beginner’s crochet tips! There’s nothing stopping you from picking up a hook and making something fun now. Go on, do it!