Getting The Right Crochet Thread

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

Making crochet is one of the most popular hobbies in the Untied States today. With over 10 million people engaged into crocheting these days, making crochet patterns are, indeed, one of the most gratifying activities today.

To create a new product out of a ball of yarn or crochet thread is one of the most exquisite reasons why many people are enticed to try crocheting. The colors, the quality, and the way they create the frame of your masterpiece are the ultimate purpose of the crochet thread.

Today, there are numerous types of crochet thread. The permutations are endless, and each type brings new and interesting variations.

So wide is the choice, in fact, that it has been often difficult to be sure which is likely to be the best fabric for a particular purpose because most people who are into crochet making probably have no idea what many of these crochet thread are made from.

As a beginner, one cannot simply tell from the appearance or the texture of the material. This is because manufacturers, too, seem reluctant to reveal all by clearly stating the content, including the actual proportions of the material sold to the consumers, which can be so helpful when deciding what to buy.

Inevitably, people cannot simply force the manufacturers to do just that instantly. Hence, it would be better if the consumers alone will try to exert some extra effort to learn how to distinguish a good crochet thread from that not-so kind.

Here are some tips that you must know in order to identify the best kind of crochet thread for your project:

1. Decide on the kind of material the thread is made of

One of the most frequently used crochet thread is the one that is made up of cotton. There reason behind this great preference is that it is very durable and can last even a decade! Best of all, cotton crochet thread are so easy to wash.

Synthetic crochet threads are nice as well because of its luster, but nothing more than that. Besides, they are difficult to wash, so you probably would not even consider buying this kind of thread.

2. Know the different types of crochet thread

In crocheting, there are only five major types of crochet thread. These are the worsted weight, baby or the fingering type, bulky, sport, and chunky. Each classification has its own unique “weight” or thickness. Among the five types, fingering has the finest weight.

If ever you get to notice the word “ply” in the yarn label, this refers to the amount of the strands that were entwined together to materialize the yarn.

3. Always start with a “beginner’s thread” when you are just starting to crochet

It is always better to start with a bigger thread size when you are just starting to make a crochet. Usually, the bigger the size of the thread, the better.

As you advanced to the next level, try to use some of the finer types. This will enhance your skill.

4. Know the ideal thread

If you are already on that level where you have made some crochet patterns, it is now time for you to try the advanced level. Here, the ideal thread that you must use are those that have finer strands when it comes to thickness.

Using this type of thread will give your work an impression of a refined finished product because of its feebleness.

5. Always have an extra ball of crochet thread or yarn

When buying crochet thread, it is always important to have an extra ball of thread. After all, you would not want to come to an end before you can even your work. This is especially applicable to the colored yarns. The point here is that colored threads may differ if not bought at the same time. It must be acquired on the same “dye-lot.” Slight difference in color can really ruin your work.

When using the white-colored thread, it does not pose so many problems because you can always start with it anytime.

6. Never go for the cheap ones

In crochet, getting a cheaper quality of crochet thread may only ruin the total appearance of your work. Hence, it would be better to choose the best quality of crochet thread to ensure the quality of your work. It is as simple as that.

Therefore, the next time you go to your local crochet shop, be wary of choosing the thread. Keep in mind that the crochet thread is the major part of your work. That is why it is relatively important to choose the best kind.

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Use Crochet Beads On Everything

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

By Chrystal Holman

The colorful styles of today combined with the easy accessibility of all sorts of beads makes it natural to want to add lots of beading to any crochet project. Even though the finished crochet product might have intricate designs, the process of adding the beads is actually simple. Just remember when you choose the materials for your project that the beads have to fit on the thread or yarn that you will be using so make sure the hole in the bead is the right size.

Beads have many crochet application, but some beads are not suited for baby garments. As you know, if it’s loose, it goes into the mouth and baby fingers can work loose many stitches. With that warning being issued, we’re on our way. Decide where you want your beads to go and about how many you’ll need. Just place the necessary beads onto the yarn or thread in the reverse order that you’ll need them and you’re ready to crochet beads onto any project.

Feed the bead up the hook when you’re at the stitch where you want the bead. Set the bead in its place just before you make your last yarn over. The last part of the stitch locks it down. This method can be used to scatter clear, shiny beads randomly across the front of a sweater or to crochet beads of the same color around the collar of an evening top. You can crochet beads of a contrasting color onto a lace motif to accent the fancy design.

If you prefer sewing on the beads, make sure that you use the same crochet thread so that the stitches don’t stand out from the rest. The embroidery half-cross stitch can be used to fasten beads to an area that’s very tightly crocheted. Open, lacy work calls for you to crochet beads on. Small seed beads go well with the multi-colored thread of an embroidery project. Adding beauty to an embroidery piece with dew in the form of beads on embroidered flowers is a great idea. If you embroider animals or birds, then beads make the perfect eyes for those creatures.

To add a fringe of beads while you are crocheting, use the first method. Feed the beads onto the yarn or thread before beginning the project. As you come to the fringe stitch, feed the beads you will need up to the hook. By making a chain the same length of the fringe, and including a bead in each chain stitch, you’ll make your work a little easier. These methods all help you to make your crochet work easier and more beautiful.

About the Author: At www.lovecrochet.com you can get advice on crochet, as well as tips for a crochet bikini.

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Using The Art Of Crochet For Babies

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

By Michelle Bery

Crochet – at its core – is delicate, lovely, and timeless. So it’s no wonder that it lends itself so beautifully to items associated with a baby. A blanket, booties, sweaters, a dress – the addition of crochet to any of these items elevates the cute factor into the realm of breathtaking. Suddenly a receiving blanket becomes a family heirloom; baby booties become worthy of framing; and a special sweater becomes a treasured hand-me-down.

For those looking to create the beautiful gift of crochet for babies, you have a variety of patterns and materials from which choose. If you are a beginner, start with a simple pattern such as a blanket or booties; you’ll find their lines forgiving of any mistakes. For the more experienced among us, more complex patterns such as sweaters, and other projects that contain multi-patterned designs could be good choices.

You can find any patterns that appeal to you at your local craft store or on the Internet. Online resources are abundant with patterns of crochet for babies. Additionally, most are free of charge. Depending on what you want to accomplish, you’ll most likely find all that you need in these online stores.

Next comes the fun part of picking the color and texture of the yarns you want to use for your crochet for babies. There are variety of textures available; just be sure to keep those crochet for babies as soft as possible. Remember that babies’ skin is sensitive and choose accordingly. Also choose those materials that are easily machine washable.

While supplementing the design with buttons, snaps, and other embellishments elevate the crochet for babies, be very careful in your use; remember that small items can be a chocking hazard so secure them with care.

Sizing can be somewhat difficult when it comes to crochet for babies. Instructional manuals will help you measure with accuracy and plan accordingly.

Crochet for babies can be a wonderful way to welcome a newborn to the world. Even better, it can be your unique way to do it and one that will could be handed down from generation to generation.

About the Author: For easy to understand, in depth information about crochet visit our ezGuide 2 Crochet.

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Crochet Design

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

By Michael Davis

Crocheting is a favorite craft with a very long history. The fashion world has rediscovered the joys of crocheted accessories, causing crafters to once again pick up on this relaxing and rewarding hobby. Learn the art of crochet, and you may find yourself drawn to the art of crochet design as well.

If you are a beginner to crochet, it’s best to start with the basics. This is the rule of thumb with any craft, and creating crochet design is certainly no different. If you have done cross-stitching, you will find it a little easier to understand certain crochet designs. On the other hand, if you have no stitching experience at all, you might want to consider taking beginners’ crochet class, and then move on to crochet patterns.

Explore the fashion world to learn more about crochet patterns. Watch the runways and magazines to see what the professionals are using in their latest creations. Learn the trends and keep up to date in your crochet design. Fashion shows usually feature upcoming styles a few months before they are launched in stores. By watching for new trends, and studying the fabric when it hits the stores, you will be able to create a new crochet design that’s up to date with the newest, hottest styles. When choosing a crochet design, you need to remember that the fashion industry is driven by seasons. You need to work fast so you’re your finished design can be used and enjoyed while it is still in fashion.

Not everyone has access to fashion shows, but reference materials like videos and books can also be great resources. Specialty shops and craft stores should have these resources available, along with all the materials you’ll need to complete your project. Television shows and magazines can also offer insight into crochet design, from basic patterns to the most advanced styles. Choose a pattern that you love, and make sure that you understand all of the instructions before you begin.

Basic projects should be completed using only one colour. Learning crochet design is best practiced on a simple project, such as a washcloth. When you’ve successfully completed your initial project, you can then move on to bigger and more involved projects. The first step to completing a simple crochet design is learning the basic stitches.

Slipknot

A slipknot is one of the most basic stitches used on crochet design. Making a slipknot does not even require a needle. Simply work the yarn with your fingers. While one end of the yarn is around the fingers, the ball of yarn can be thrown in the air. After making a few loops, you will use both hands to tie a knot.

Changing Colours

Switching from one colour to then next is a challenging task when learning crochet design. You must stop the first colour of yarn, and then carefully slip a different yarn colour onto the needle.

Purl Stitches

Many crochet patterns include the purl stitch, which is a technique very similar to mixing. With yarn already in place around one needle, you will use the other needle to work its way inside until both can be used to work together to create the pattern.

Mixing

Another basic technique used in crochet design is called mixing. This is done using two separate needles, each with a different colour of yarn. Make these colours face one another, and let one of the needles work over the other. The finished crochet design will become multi-colored.

Cross-stitching

It takes a lot of patience to master the challenging technique of cross-stitching. After learning the basics of crochet design, you will then be able to move on to make figures, lines and other shapes to make your pattern stand out.

Beginning crochet designers should first draw their pattern on paper to analyze how the design will be done. By using your drawing as a guide, you will be able to easily monitor the progress of your work.

Crochet patterns can be incorporated into almost any project. Begin designing some small household items, and then move on to larger projects like clothing and accessories. As you take on greater challenges, you’ll see your crochet design skills dramatically improve.

There are many crochet designs available, and not every one will be listed in crochet books. The finest designs come from the imagination, beginning with a simple drawing and then coming to life from a ball of yarn and a flash of needlework.

By devoting time to research the trends and learn the basics, you can master the art of crochet design.

About the Author: Michael Davis writes for several popular web magazines, on recreation tips and hobbies and outdoor living subjects.

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Finding The Right Crochet Books

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

If there is one book that could make you an expert and turn simple yarns into fashionable creations by simply reading all throughout its pages, it is the crochet book.

Since its inception, making crochet and the basics of crochet could have been a problematic endeavor and may have been a complete nuisance because of the complicated topics if not for crochet books.

As we all know, books had always fascinated us many ways. Some books were designed to bring you to the world of fantasy and get to see Cinderella dance the night away with Prince Charming, while some books were created to trigger some changes in history, improve one’s life, and organize things that needs some orderliness.

And there are some books that were meant to teach, to educate, and to edify a person’s knowledge about something. One good example is the crochet books.

It has been an accepted fact that one of the biggest bonuses of making your own clothes is being able to create something that comes close next to your heart. Added to this, which is what often attracts a person to crocheting in the first place, is the advantage that you will be able to learn the basics of crocheting without having to enroll in some expensive classes or hire somebody to teach you how to start making crochet.

Hence, with crochet books, learning is such a breeze. With the detailed instructions and explanations stipulated in the crochet books, making your first crochet pattern is as easy as 1-2-3.

However, not all crochet books are created equal. There are good books and there are good for nothing books. Therefore, it is a must to learn how to choose the best crochet books and obtain those that will only work best for you. Here’s how:

1. Buy crochet books specially made for the beginners or newbies

For a person who has never tried to make a crochet before, learning the basics would be easy if you will have the proper and the most appropriate beginner’s guidebook. This is because there are some instances wherein some beginners buy book by mistake. Instead of acquiring crochet books for beginners, they were able to buy those that are designed for those whoa re already on the advanced level.

In turn, they cannot understand what the topic is all about, plus the fact that they have just wasted their money on something that they do not have any use of even if the book was good.

2. Buy crochet books that suits your particular interest

If you want to focus on a particular kind or type of crochet, it would be better to buy books that would suit your particular subject of interest. For example, if you are in love with Afghans and you just love the ways it looks on your bed; why not buy a crochet book that entails detailed instructions on how to make different forms of Afghans.

3. Choose crochet books that are built to give you specific patterns

Despite the daunting effect of “going metric,” in many ways life has never been easier for most home crochet makers. Time was when the producers of the various makes of patterns each worked to an individual set of average measurements. But these often differed so much that to get a reasonable fit, even when the correct pattern size had been chosen, was largely a matter of make – or of luck!

Today, fortunately for the budding home crochet makers, the manufacturers of well-known crochet books now work to more useful information on crochet patterns. With crochet books, patterns are now available in more comprehensible instructions and information that will perfectly suit every figure type or any measurement.

4. Compare prices

Finally, before deciding on a particular crochet book, it is best if you will try to shop around and compare prices. Nothing beats a good savings as well as obtaining the best crochet book that you need than shopping around and comparing the prices of the books.

In marketing, some books are priced so high than the presumed value, and buying this kind of book could only put your money to waste.

The bottom line is that before buying crochet books, it is important to consider some factors, such as the ones that were mentioned, in order to save more money, time, and effort. Besides, you would not want to waste you time and money on something that will not generate benefits for you, right?

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Getting Free Crochet Patterns

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

Since the dawn of the new technology, the Internet has been a viable source of lots of information worldwide. With its easy access to almost everything, more and more people are turning to the Internet to find the solutions to their problems.

Take for example the concept on crocheting. With its worldwide acceptance, more and more people are interested to learn how to make crochet by obtaining some useful patterns in the Internet. These types of information are very useful for some people who cannot afford to buy crochet books or crochet patterns in the market.

What’s even more valuable and gainful about free online crochet patterns is that they are so easy to download, considering the fact that they are free, which means all you have to do is to find the best crochet pattern that will work for you, download it, and viola! You have an instant crochet pattern to start with.

Consequently, in sewing, whether it entails knitting, crocheting, or cross-stitching, having some patterns to guide you throughout the production of your handicraft is such an important factor in order to create a good product, if not a masterpiece.

Crochet patterns are built to make crocheting easier for most people who are interested to this kind of hobby. Hence, obtaining free crochet patterns online is a definite advantage on every crochet maker’s part.

However, even if free online crochet patterns are very useful, it does not necessarily follow that every pattern would work for every crochet maker. This only means that it is also important to consider some factors in choosing free online crochet patterns simply because not all of the free online crochet patterns are created equal.

Hence, for those who simply cannot distinguish which free online crochet pattern he or she should choose, here is a list of some tips that could assist every crochet maker in their projects:

1. Obtain a free crochet pattern nearest to your own size and area of interest

This means that you have to consider whether the online pattern that you are about to obtain would work best for you. To do this you must be able to identify which patterns will suit you according to your size or the size of the person who will wear it, your style, your area of interest like choosing afghan patterns if you are into afghan, etc.

Even if these patterns are for free downloading online, the fact that you might just be wasting your time downloading free online crochet patterns that you will simply not use because you do not have any use for it is a great waste already. Hence, it would be better to obtain a particular pattern that will not waste your time or effort.

2. Get free online crochet patterns for beginners if you are just a newbie

Getting a free online crochet pattern that is not suitable to your level of expertise is just as wasteful as when you have spend your money for it.

Keep in mind that it would be better for a beginner like you to get a good make of free online crochet pattern. There are some patterns that are specially built for the beginners. Besides, getting a free pattern that is on the advanced level will only confuse with all those loops and crochets that you are still not familiar with.

3. Choose a pattern with no specific requirements on tools

There are some free online crochet pattern that are requires some specific tools. This is not bad. The only drawback is that there may be some instances that you simply do not have tools that the pattern is requiring you to use. Some patterns require specific hooks. For example, a typical afghan pattern requires a special “afghan hook,” known as the “double hook needle.

4. Check the gauge or measurement

Whether the crochet pattern is free or not, it is extremely important to always verify the “gauge” of a particular pattern. This is extremely important if the pattern is designed for slippers, clothes, or booties. To do this, you must first sew an unattached example of a finished job before starting on your own project. The ideal size would be those that have at least 10 rows high, and not less than 20 stitches across. Use this on the measurement being claimed by the pattern’s measurements. If there is any discrepancy, you have to make some adjustments with the size of your hook.

The point here is that if you have chosen as near as to your own measurements and figure type as possible, there should not be a great of alteration to do.

The bottom line is that not all free online crochet patterns are useful. You should also do your part in analyzing, evaluating, and deciding on which pattern will work well.

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Crochet Like An Expert

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

By Kent Sayre

Homemade afghans and baby booties are still the types of family heirlooms that evoke memories of home and family. It is a lost art with the advent of modern knitting machines, but the craft is still an enjoyable hobby for all ages and skill levels.

Crocheting is a great craft for beginners and experts both. Beginners can make crocheted scarves in just a few hours using large needles (hooks), a bulky yarn, an a single crochet stitch. Those who are more experienced can get into double crochets, treble stitches, popcorn stitches or any number of combination stitches that can create endless patterns for hats, mittens, sweaters, slippers, and blankets.

The basic tools needed to crochet like an expert are a hook and yarn. These tools vary greatly in size and even material. A beginner may find it easiest to work with an I of J sized hook and a light weight yarn. This allows them to see their work as they progress. The new fashions using faux furs are a bit more difficult, but can be mastered very quickly once the basic single crochet stitch is learned.

All crochet projects start with a chain stitch. This is just what the name implies, a chain of a specified length into which the hook will be inserted to start the next row of stitching. Depending on the pattern, the crochet stitch may be worked into each link of the chain or skip links to create spaces in the pattern.

A common pattern for a blanket is the “granny square.” This can be one big square that makes up the whole blanket or a series of smaller squares that are later stitched together. In the case of the granny square, the chain you begin with is only a few stitches long. Then you work the single crochet into it, skipping links so that the stitches begin to circle around and form a square. The next row adds stitches as it makes its way around the perimeter so that the square can grow to the desired size.

Anyone can crochet like an expert with a few basic skills. The chain stitch, a single crochet stitch and the double or half double crochet stitch can be woven into endless patterns and accessories. The electronic manual gives you the details invaluable tips from master needle workers.

About the Author: http://www.infostormpublishing.com/ebooks/?bk=30

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Top Free Crochet Patterns Online

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

Do you need free crochet patterns for beginners? The internet is a treasure of free crochet patterns for all skill levels. Beginning crocheters can pick from hat, afghans, clothes, and household items. If you don’t know how to crochet, you can find plenty of tutorials to help you. Search how to crochet or crochet instructions on the internet. If you already know crochet or teaching someone else, here are a few sites to help you find free crochet patterns for beginners.

Craftown.com isn’t called a crafter’s resource center for nothing. This site carries over 1000 patterns and projects in most any craft. There are free lesson pages that let you learn crochet stitches and styles. There are clear, easy to follow instructions showing the correct way to hold the needle and how the stitches should look. You can find a learning section for the craft you want. Pick from knitting, crochet, tatting, and quilting just to name  a few. Beginners are sure to find something. The site is updated often.

Crochet pattern Central is another site full of beginner crochet resources and free crochet patterns. It is updated weekly. Crochet pattern Central is an online directory featuring thousands of links in more than 90 crochet categories. Some of the categories include baby , afghans, dolls, holiday, clothes, and potholders. If you are looking for more specific patterns in  a category, click on the sub category links. Crochet Pattern Central offers beginning crochet section and original patterns. If you don’t have a website, and design crochet patterns, you can submit them here. You can find links to beginner tutorials to various techniques off-site in the directory. You’ll find tips and tricks along with encouraging testimonials.

Lion Brand Yarn is a popular yarn brand. Lion Brand Yarn has their own website with several resources for the crochet enthusiast.  Offering the services is a good promotional strategy. They  provide a set of tutorials which can be viewed online or downloaded for off-line viewing. There is an illustrated directory for novices who can’t fully grasp the basic terms in patterns. Lion Brand contains almost a thousand free patterns  for children, adults, home décor, and more. The free crochet patterns are classified according to skill level and you can also purchase supplies.

Free Patterns.com and About.com are popular sites for crafts. They are perhaps among the oldest sites around and still going strong. You can download patterns in PDF format or view online. A beginner is sure to find something. Free Patterns.com offers free video tutorials to any craft. You can learn specific stitches with clear illustrations. Free registration is required for this site. Crochet.about.com has an alphabetical index of free crochet patterns around the internet. There is an onsite beginners guide with links to tutorials on stitches and free patterns for beginners and experienced crocheters.

These are just few sites with free crochet patterns.  If you check further instructions or want to make specific patterns check video sites like Youtube.com Sometimes you’ll find videos showing you how to make simple items. As you can see, it isn’t hard for beginner’s to find something. Start visiting these sites and make projects to show off. For more resources, just type ‘free crochet’ or ‘free crochet patterns’ in a search engine.

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Crochet Lace

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

Although the origins of crochet lace are not known, the earliest known crochet lace traces back to the eighteenth century in Arabia, South America and China. However, it became popular in the 1800s in Europe. The earliest written record about crochet refers to a shepherd knitting in Elizabeth Grant’s The Memoirs of Highland Lady in 1812. The first published record of crochet appeared in the Dutch magazine Penelope in 1824.

Crochet lace is a process of creating fabric from yarn or thread by using a crochet hook. This form is derived from French which means hook. This art consists of pulling loops of yarn through other loops. Crochet is like knitting in many ways but different in that in crochet embroidery lace making only one loop is active at one time.

Crochet lace was not considered true embroidery lace but an imitation or a secondary version of embroidery lace. This lace is made by applying the art of crochet. The art of crochet uses fine threads and more decorative styles of stitching often with flowing lines or curved edges along the fabric border. The lacy look on crochet embroidery lace reflects various sizes of holes.

Crocheting is an easy form of lace making that takes less time and adds to the beauty of the dress it is attached to. Though crochet embroidery lace is considered inferior to the other elite forms of laces such as Rachel lace which are made using needles, bobbins or nets, it became widely popular in the nineteenth century. The first forms of crochet lace copied the forms of other lace techniques but later crochet began to be appreciated more for its inherent beauty and the many possibilities of designs that can be created in this genre.

Crochet lace is mainly categorized into Filet lace and Irish lace. Filet lace is like a grid because it uses only two crochet stitches chain stitch and double crochet stitch. Chain stitches use less of yarn which form pattern by filling in parts of mostly chain stitch with double crochet stitches. Crochet thread made of mercerized cotton in white or ecru is used to construct a monotonous design.

Irish lace has always been an important part of the Irish needlework tradition. Irish Crochet Lace is made with a very fine crochet hook and fine crochet cotton or linen thread. You start by outlining your pattern on a piece of cloth and then crochet each motif separately. The motifs are then stitched onto the cloth in the shape of the pattern.

Crochet lace is typically used for knitwear, pillow covers, sheets, towels and napkins. This lace can also be used to beautify ladies’ wardrobe by adding edges to sleeves, neckline or bottom edge of a T shirt or blouse and skirt. Decorative applications like table cloths, place settings like coasters and placemats also make use of crochet lace to increase their decorative value.

 

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Crochet – Hook Up For Fun!

Posted on March 13, 2011 by CraftyOne

By Ken Wilson

The Dutch called it Haken and the Spanish called it Labor de Ganchillo, but call it Crochet and it looks just as delicate and. Today the word, with its roots in medieval French Croc or croche meaning Hook, has come to signify one of the most popular fabric crafts for men and women across the globe. Yes, I did say men…because an increasing number of men are now turning to this highly structured and organized craft for finding creative satisfaction.

Crochet is basically a series of interlocking loops of thread into a chain to create brightly colored patterns. These patterned patches can then be given various forms like table covers, tote bags, hats and baby dresses. A single chain of loops is created, with each new loop catching the thread and pulling it through the previous loop. Once the chain is completed, the thread is turned starting a second chain. Some popular stitches are: Chain, Single, Half Double, Double, Popcorn, and Cluster.

Some of the most popular theories suggest the craft originated in France. Significant evidence points to its earliest usage in the 1700s Europe where it was developed as an affordable alternative to the more expensive forms of lace. It needed inexpensive equipment and raw material to create low-cost fabric and the art picked up enough to achieve the status of a flourishing cottage industry by mid 1800s.

Branded as ‘the commoners’ lace’, this art got a fillip when it received a patron in Queen Victoria of England. Though this art has had its ups and downs over the centuries, its inherent simplicity and beauty has ensured its longevity and currency as a fashionable fabric in every century. Easy, affordable and fun, this art has many takers and a resounding Internet presence. Check out DIY guides and patterns on the web and get hooking for hours of fun.

About the Author: Ken Wilson for http://www.crochet-source.com

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