The Crochet Dork |
Interesting crochet finds of a full-on, fangirling, geeky dork.
Credits and Disclaimers + + Followers++Tags amigurumi | blankets | doilies | hexagons | squares clothing | hats | scarves blocking + techniques + patterns Crafty Bane |
Adding a zipper to knitwear—or crochetwear—without sewing. Brilliant! (via TECHknitting: Zippers in knitwear, the no-sewing way)
Glasscamel wanted to learn how to crochet cables. So in my efforts to help, I learnt how to crochet cables. :’D They’re not worth it.
(To get started, you need to know how post stitches work. Then you can move onto the cables.)
Actually, I guess they’re not so bad.
Crocheting break-through! Well, for my silly brain, at least! Algebraic equation to make determining the number of sc stitches before an increase easier!
EDIT: I found the bug and fixed it! I had confused myself. But it should be right now. If any more problems should arise, please message me!
Here’s a handy little crochet tutorial for beginners wanting to learn how to crochet over their ends. Via the LionBrand Yarn Blog.
Legit, this is my favorite way to deal with ends.
(via we-love-crocheting)
I have finally mastered the foundation single crochet and will probably never start another item with a chain if i can help it
FILL THE GAP in the HEX phototutorial by Lanas & Hilos
This is an excellent little tip if you love crocheting hexagons. Check it out!
(via yarn-over)
The Crochet Case shares this detailed tutorial on how to crochet in a spiral. It’s pretty fascinating — Enjoy!
(Source: tycreates)
Wrist + Hand Exercises for Crocheters / Knitters
If you knit/crochet a lot… chances are you suffer from some achy wrists! …
Here are a few exercises that I do to relieve my sore wrists. Try to give these a whirl every hour or so while you’re working.
Instructions with accompanying pics via Stacey’s lovely blog freshstitches
1. Learn a new stitch.
The basic crochet stitches are functional and beautiful but there is a whole world of advanced stitches out there that can greatly expand your work. For example, learn how to crochet the picot trellis stitch, a lovely openwork stitch that can be used to make a variety of different items. Another great advanced stitch that you could learn is the bullion stitch.
2. Learn a new technique.
There are stitches, like the hdc stitch, and then there are techniques, such as working the hdc stitch in the back loop only to create a ribbed fabric. Expand your crochet experience by trying a technique that is new to you. Another example of a technique is learning how to add embellishments or make changes to your finished items; for example you could learn how to add buttons to your work or learn how to make an invisible join.
3. Learn a new type of crochet.
In addition to stitches and techniques, there are also a lot of variations on crochet and niches in the craft to explore. Just a few examples would be Tunisian crochet, broomstick lace, hairpin lace, filet crochet, tapestry crochet and bead crochet. Make a list of all of the types of crochet you’ve never tried before and challenge yourself to try them soon.
4. Attempt a type of project that you never try do to.
Are you someone who never makes motif-based project because joining motifs intimidates you? Take a risk and try working on our graphic granny afghan pattern designed by Katherine Eng to get comfortable with motifs.
Or perhaps you are frightened by trying to put together too many colors in one project? Start slowly by working on the Cheshire Blanket pattern by Ellen Gormley, a project that incorporates four different colors in the same area of the color spectrum.
Trying things that you never tried before is scary but remember that crochet is a safe place to explore and take risks!
![]()
5. Make an item that you’ve never made before.
Do you always make scarves, cowls and other accessories but never go for larger garments? The Annie Hall Wrap Sweater by Mari Lynn Patrick is a good one for getting adventurous with garments.
Do you often crochet blankets but have a secret desire to make a stuffed animal? Bookmark Michele Wilcox’s pattern for the Circus Seal Toy to try when you feel brave enough.
Maybe you always make stuffed animals and now you want to try crocheting a rug for the home? Linda Cyr’s Easy Stripes Rug pattern from our July/ August 2011 issue offers a good place to start.
6. Crochet with a yarn you have never used before.
Each yarn has its own pros and cons, its own strengths and weaknesses. Explore your own creative preferences by trying a yarn you haven’t tried before, like Red Heart’s Rigoletto yarn. Find videos herefor learning how to work with it.
7. Crochet with a yarn alternative.
Yarn isn’t the only thing that you can crochet with. You can crochet with thread, wire, rags, t-shirts, newspaper, other paper, plastic bags and more. You can crochet with almost anything; Yvette Kaiser Smith has even crocheted with fiberglass!
8. Try a new hook and see how it feels.
You can try a different brand. You can try a different material, like these bamboo ones from Susan Bates. Or you could even just explore what it is like to crochet with a very different size of crochet hook.
9. Crochet an art piece.
Many people who crochet are used to creating functional items. Expand your personal creative world by attempting to crochet an art piece. It can be as simple as crocheting a few granny squares and then matting, framing and hanging them. Or it could be a more involved effort like going yarnbombing or contributing to a public art project. Need inspiration? Check out the work that’s produced each year for the annual International Freeform Guild art show.
10. Take a crochet class.
A crochet class offers a great opportunity to learn new skills in the craft. Even if you’re taking a class about something you’re familiar with, though, you can learn new tips, ideas and approaches to the craft through the unique style of the person teaching it. Crochet classes are available at conventions, yarn shops, fiber farms, local colleges and even online.