How to Crochet

Synopsis

Get hooked on crochet and bring handcrafted charm to your home and wardrobe. Sara Delaney provides easy-to-follow illustrated instructions for joining, fastening off, selecting color schemes, and much more. Learn how to read crochet patterns and work a basic chain with single or double stitches. You'll quickly be on your way to crafting your own pretty potholders and delicate scarves.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction to Crochet

Crochet is an excellent way to create handmade items. In this chapter, an overview of the basic techniques, materials, and terms used in the craft are discussed. Some basic stitches and terms include single crochet (sc), half double crochet (hdc), triple crochet (tc), slip stitch (sl st), and foundation chain (ch). The most commonly used material is yarn. Different weights and colors of yarn can be used for different looks. Hook sizes and how to count stitches are also discussed. An example of how to use these terms would be to create a simple double crochet (dc): start by making a chain of 7 stitches, then double crochet in the third chain from the hook, double crochet in each chain across, and then turn your work and double crochet in each stitch across until you reach the end.

Chapter 2: Projects

This chapter focuses on various crochet projects, discussing the materials, tools and techniques to consider when deciding which project to create. Before beginning a project, patterns and graphs of the design should be carefully read. Patterns can include terms such as stitch counts, color changes, and basic rules of construction. Projects can range from simple scarfs and chair cozies to more complicated items like amigurumi animals and sweaters. An example of a simple project would be a dishcloth made with a basic double crochet stitch: start by chaining 34, then double crochet in each stitch across for the first row. Turn your work and continue double crocheting across until you have the desired size of your dishcloth.

Chapter 3: Finishing

This chapter discusses all the steps to properly complete your crochet projects. The first step is to weave in any ends, which can be done with a crochet hook or a yarn needle. Next, blocking is discussed to properly shape and size your project. This can be done by steaming or wetting the project and allowing it to dry. Lastly, edging can be added to give your project a finished look. An example would be to add a single crochet border on the edges of a scarf. Start by chaining 1, then single crochet in each stitch around, and slip stitch to join in the beginning stitch.

Crochet is a fun and rewarding craft that takes some time and practice to master. By following these chapters, and with some patience and creativity, you'll soon be crocheting beautiful, handmade items.