crochet

My favourite crochet class

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During the 6 years or so I’ve been teaching knitting and crochet, I’ve tried various classes. Some, I run quite often because there is a demand for them, others, rarely (only when there are enough people interested), and the odd one or two I have changed or just ditched altogether. I’m pleased there aren’t many of those.

In the spirit of February, love and cuddly things, I would like to share my favourite class with you and why I adore it.

Sensational Crocheted Squares was the first ‘real’ crochet class I developed, back in 2011. I know it’s a bit of a mouthful to say, but I’ve resisted changing the name because

1. they are awesome

2. most of the motifs are squares

3. It’s crochet, and if I say ‘crocheted square’, lots of people know what I mean (it’s a classic)

A granny square has a simple, repetitive rhythm, making them perfect to relax with and infinitely soothing – a real zoning out project.

I added other squares and hexagons to the class so that people could learn other techniques in the same course. All of the motifs are very portable and quick, so they are ideal for busy people or people who like to complete one little thing each night.

On a more personal level, I love the Sensational Crocheted Squares course because at it’s heart, I’m passing on the patterns and skills I learnt as a child. It feels great.

One of the things which drew me to crochet was my Great Nanna, with her basket of colourful squares, quickly joining them together as I picked out the next one. It was a warm, cosy holiday in her little cottage, and I learnt things like how to light a coal fire using newspaper (safety first, kids, I must have been about 5!), and what the names of the wildflowers were which grew down the side of the canal.

This reminds me of family history and the interconnectedness of women through the generations. In a sense, the stitches and textiles made form the fabric of our lives, surrounding us, cocooning us and keeping us safe like a magical spell.

I would love to hear your thoughts about how crafts and textiles fit into your life – find me on Facebook at happymakesart or on Twitter at CarryYarnCaro.

Caroline. x

If you are interested in the Sensational Crocheted Squares course, I will have more details soon. Follow me on Twitter!

UK – US Crochet Stitch Conversion Chart with symbols

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Something I hear a lot is how it’s so confusing using UK and US crochet terms and stitch names. Let’s face it, when you are a beginner you don’t need to be learning the lingo too.

No more confusion!

Banish those blues!

Here’s a new stitch conversion chart for you (updated from my popular old one). Just save the image, print it in landscape, then flip the paper over and print the other side.

Bingo! You have 3 charts, 1 for your essentials bag, 2 for your mates (or keep them as bookmarks).

Folded, they are less than credit card sized and perfect for keeping in your purse or wallet so you can check the wraps per inch before you buy that impulse yarn, or double check how to make a UK double crochet stitch.

Is it Better to Learn to Knit or Crochet?

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Knitting and crochet are both popular hobbies for people wanting to make blankets, toys and household items. There are so many inspiring pictures, sometimes it’s difficult for a newcomer to decide which they want to learn. It becomes even more confusing when department stores label clothing inaccurately (grr).

At first, knitting and crochet can look similar – both use sticks and yarn to make fabric. There are differences and you may find that one suits you more or you prefer the results of one craft. Let’s take a look.

Equipment

A knitted fabric is made using yarn and a pair of knitting needles. You hold one needle in each hand, with the yarn typically over the right index finger. Crochet uses the same type of yarn and a single crochet hook. In this case the hook is typically held in the right hand and yarn over the fingers of the left. None of this is set in stone, and people generally find their own, comfortable style. Other equipment you need include scissors, yarn needle, stitch markers and tape measure.

Which is easiest?

That depends. I’ve been teaching for over 6 years, amd in my experience, people seem to just prefer one over the other. Sometimes it’s the one they remember from being a child, or have seen someone do. Sometimes not. Both are great for developing hand-eye coordination. 

Limitations

You may want to consider limitations, for example a wrist injury. Remember though, that this should not be the deciding factor. Some people with quite servers arthritis are able to knit comfortably by resting their hands on a lap pillow at an appropriate height.


Which results do you you like?

I suggest signing up for a free account on Ravelry. Use the search function to browse the Patterns for things you would like to make, and check whether they are knitted or crocheted. Pinterest can also be good for inspiration, but try not to get stuck in there.


Patience or instant gratification?

Crochet has the reputation of growing more quickly than knitting. It’s generally true, although that depends on the project, your skill level and the size of hook and yarn. One big benefit of crochet is that you have one working loop, which makes it easier to put down (if, for example, you need to rescue a small child).

Social and help!

What do your friends do? Are the exclusively knitters, and if so would it bother you to be the odd one out? How much help is available for you at groups and local yarn stores? Whichever you choose, there’s a great online community.

Up to you…

Whether you decide to try knitting or crochet, you can be sure of joining a warm, friendly, worldwide community. You aren’t stuck with knitting or crochet forever either – why not try both! I am happy to arrange a taster session for you and your friends.