Ask aspiring crocheters or knitters why you should learn their art, and they’ll probably say it’s the most beautiful and versatile art form. Some say the person is faster; others, more fashion. The beginner crocheter is easy and you can use large hooks and yarn which makes it easy to make. You have to decide whether to knit or crochet is right for you.
crochet
Crochet is an extremely versatile and popular technique for making a variety of fashion and home decor accessories. By combining lighter or softer yarns with basic crochet stitches, you create a delicate, flowing fabric; a thicker thread produces a solid fabric. Beautifully textured and fluffy stitches are particularly easy to crochet.
All you need to crochet is a continuous string of yarn and a single hook. You start with a slip stitch and continue making loops (called chains) by creating a foundation row. Rows are built on this foundation. Crochet stitches are made by looping and wrapping yarn around the hook. The loops are pulled through the wrapped thread to make the stitches.
You can crochet in rows, keeping your work straight, or work in a round by joining your stitches to form a loop. There are many free patterns on the web to get you started. Online crochet offers something for everyone. Choose something that is practical for you so you have something valuable when you’re done. Don’t start with something complex. Be sure to follow the guidelines for the type of pattern you’re crocheting for beginners. An eBook on how to crochet is good for this.
One of the most well-known crochet patterns is the Granny Square motif. These colorful crochet squares or circles are combined to create afghans and vests. In one fall European couture collection, Granny Wrap was a huge hit and even featured on a recent cover of Vogue Magazine.
Knit
Knitting has long been a favorite technique for making sweaters because of the detailing and color patterns possible and the stretchy, draped fabric the stitches produce. The two basic stitches—knit and purl—can be worked alone or together and form the basis of dozens of designs, among other stitches.
Knitting requires two needles and a continuous bundle of yarn. You start by tying a slip knot on a needle and “pouring” the number of stitches you need for the project. (This is the term used to create the foundation row on one needle.) Foundation stitches are created using both needles, wrapping the thread on one needle and threading the wrapped thread through the loops on the other needle.
Circular knitting needles—long, flexible needles with a point at each end—are growing in popularity as they eliminate stitches and the need to constantly rotate your knitting at the end of the row. It is important to control the movement of your hands when moving the needles. You want to have a tight weave for more elegance in the finished product.
Production with Yarn
Winding, twisting and knitting open up endless home decor and fashion possibilities. Make gorgeous silk tassels, twist multiple strands to make holiday wreaths, knit yarn to embellish your favorite outfit, or just have fun wrapping gift boxes. The possibilities are endless, fast and fun.
Leave a reply
