By: Charles Cox
A crocheted scarf provides a perfect last detail in a lady’s outfit. It
not only represents something simple as it is only a long and narrow
piece of textile worn over the head or around the neck but it can be
very useful as well to keep someone warm on a windy day. Yet it can
also provide a hint of elegance when used properly.
The wonders of a simple scarf are very much recognized in that there
are many companies that manufacture them. Knitted and crocheted
garments, especially scarves, are very important aspects of business in
some countries.
Given the desirability of having a scarf, and that many women love
them, what better item to place on your crocheting list for either
gifts or profit? This is a great item on which to make your own
personal imprint. A great gift with a personal touch and a great item
to sell as well. Any color can be used, any length can made, nothing
can give you as much freedom and room for innovation.
If you’re considering to learn more about crochet, here’s some interesting information.
How the Craft of Crochet came to be
Many theories have come up in regards to the history of crochet. Some
believe that crochet was first done with the use of mere fingers.
Others would say that it was plainly part of the sewing duties of a
nun. Still yet others even claim that it is part of rituals in the
South America. These are only speculations, but the exact origin of the
crochet is still a mystery.
It is worth noting here that the craft of crocheting was a status
symbol in the 16th century. Female members of high society were the
only ones who knew the skill of crocheting. It was only in the 1800’s
when the craft became accessible to majority of the public.
Crochet then spread through many households and families. The skill
then is passed on from one generation to another, with the elders
teaching younger ones.
Some people actually think that crocheting is something for older
people, or the old maid perhaps. However, this does not hold true
today. People of all ages can now crochet.
Learning How to Crochet
There are some basics to learn before you start crocheting. All crochet
designs start with a slip stitch and a chain of stitches. Thus this is
the first step to learn. So it is best to learn this first step as well
the rest of the various crochet and stitches.
Traditionally, someone in the family will teach a youngster how to
crochet. Today, if there is no one in the household to ask for
guidance, some people opt to enroll on craft classes.
Learn the lingo. Be familiar with the terms used in crochet, as well in
the symbols or legends implemented. This will be very critical when you
get crochet patterns and designs.
Getting Great Crochet Scarf Patterns
There may be craft stores in your locality that offer patterns.
However, the choices can be very limited in whatever stock they only
have.
The next best stop is to go online. The Internet offers a wide variety
of choices. There are endless lists out there. Some web sites offer
instructions book with patterns for a value and will have it delivered
to your doorstep.
There are sites that give e-books. This is a better option as you can
easily get hold of that pattern in minutes, rather than wait for days
before it gets delivered. It is more convenient too. All you have to do
is to print the pattern and you can crochet wherever you please.
The best choice yet is to get that perfect crochet scarf for free. You
can easily surf the net for web sites that offer free patterns. Simply
type the keywords ‘free crochet scarf patterns’ in the search engine.
You can also join discussion groups and forums to meet other people who
are into crocheting also. This is one good way to meet friends and also
to have someone to exchange tips with and even trade patterns with.
About the Author:
C.S.Cox published the acclaimed instructional book, "Crocheting Made
Simple" which has taught numerous people how to crochet. Find out how
to sign up for the FREE Crocheting Made Simple Newsletter at www.crochetmadesimple.com
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: Charles Cox
It used to be that crochet patterns were used mostly for the home. Lots
of crocheters were making a good blanket, afghan or a drink coaster,
but now other uses have been found in the world of fashion. They can be
used by anybody and finding the right one that will go well with the
top, the jacket or the shirt is just the tip of the iceberg.
Crochet can be done in different sizes and shapes. Some can be in the
form of a wheel or a star that has different colors in it. This can be
done at home by following a stitching book to see how it is done.
Another pattern could be done in the shape of an animal like a cat or a
bird that will also take some time to develop it before being able to
see the actual picture. Others can be done in argyle, Afghans, daisy
and flowers which are good for any occasion. There are even designs
that feature the spirit of Christmas which allows the person to wear
this all year round.
During the summer, crochet patterns can also be used at the beach in
two piece swimsuits. Most designs are in plain colors but for the
person to be flashy, adding 2 or 3 colors add the right spice.
Stitches can be done in single and in double making it thicker which is
good for people who live in cold climates. This allows people to use it
as scarves, capes and coats that make it look great with anything the
person has in the closet.
Some think that crochet patterns are only for women but it can also
work for men as well. This can made into a patch for the arm, a hat and
a pair of gloves that are very comfortable for the one who is going to
use it.
Crochet is easy once you have some knowledge about stitching. The other
thing also needed to make it work is some yarn and a few needles.
Making the thread go into holes around a certain area produces shapes
and designs which the designer and people will only get to appreciate
when it is finished.
The first thing that needs to be done is to draw it on paper. After
making the layout, choosing the right type of yarn is important since
the weight will affect the gauge and texture of the piece you are
making.
People should start with basic stitching before moving on to more
complex crochet patterns. The best place to learn patterns is through
books and some information that is also available on the internet.
These sources not only show the design but also how to do which makes
it easy for anyone to catch on.
While shopping, the person can also enter a store, study the design on
how a top was made then try to apply it. This will really help a lot
improve the skill of the person who maybe one day would like to sell
the works done.
Crochet patterns can be done on almost anything. It can be the top that
the person will wear to the mall, the bag to compliment the outfit and
the holder of the palm or phone that the person is carrying around.
Since people have shown how easy it is to make, the individual does not
need to go to the mall and buy it at the shop. But rather go home and
sit on the couch and make it. There are many other things that people
can make using the crochet pattern. It just takes a little imagination
to bring that idea from paper into a reality.
About the Author:
C.S.Cox published the acclaimed instructional book, "Crocheting Made
Simple" which has taught numerous people how to crochet. Find out how
to sign up for the FREE Crocheting Made Simple Newsletter at www.crochetmadesimple.com
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: ian Williamson
What is this thing called cross stitch? Well…in a way, cross stitch
is just like embroidery or needlepoint. But that one statement will
often bring many handcrafters to the boiling point. Die hards from each
type of craft think that their own craft is the best and they just
don’t like being compared to the others.
So…to simplify things lets say that cross stitch is mainly stitching
with planned x’s like this xxx or angles like this ///// or lines like
this —– with loops and controlled knots. Now you just put the
stitches together and you can create some of the most beautiful gifts
ever given to anyone.
Let’s Look at Some Cross Stitch Basics
Cross-Stitch has become such a popular type of handcraft that you often
find the crafters no longer use a kit for their projects, they create
their own. But, before you can go out on your own and start creating
your own art, you will need to know more about the fabrics, thread,
needles and frames. That’s why most Crafters start out with a kit.
Also, when you buy patterns or kits, you may decide to use different
fabrics and threads than what is mentioned in the kit projects. The
following will help you to understand and adapt the patterns and
materials for your own needs.
Cross-Stitch Fabrics
What is called counted cross-stitch can be stitched on just about
anything that will allow you to make consistently even sized stitches.
I have even seen people use an iron on pattern and an iron on grid to
insure the even stitches they wanted. (Like on T-shirts)
Aida Cloth
Aida cloth is the most common of all the cross-stitch fabrics. Look
close at the fabric and you will see that the woven threads are grouped
and separated by little tiny spaces. This makes a pattern of squares so
that even a beginner will be able to see exactly where their
cross-stitches need to be placed. Aida cloth comes in 6,8,11,14,16 and
18 count threads but 14 count is the most often used thread count for
the beginner. Aida cloth comes in a variety of colors and threads
counts and for the beginner they even have (in the white cloth only) a
removable grid of pre-basted threads. Now how about that for being
helpful?
Linen
Over all, because of the price, linen is considered to be an excellent
fabric to work with by the more experienced cross-stitchers. The
threads that they use to weave the linen cause a slightly irregular
thickness to work on. And when you buy linen you need to remember that
most designs are stitched over two threads so, 28-count linen will work
out a 14 stitches per square inch. Linen is made in counts of 14 to 40
count so at 14 you would have 7 stitches per square inch and at 40 you
would have 20 stitches per square inch.
Sweaters
Sweaters are an excellent background for cross-stitch. Just by basting
a grid onto the sweater you will be able to have the even consistent
stitches you want. But don’t try cross-stitching on knits without the
grid because knit stitches are not square. They are wider than they are
tall and your design will appear broader and shorten than the pattern
you are working from.
Burlap
Burlap can be counted and stitched as easily as any other traditional
cross-stitch fabric. And if you are working a country style pattern it
will give you that little extra something we all look for in the work
we do.
Evenweave Fabric
The recent popularity of cross-stitching has created a need for
specialty fabrics. These fabrics are called evenweave fabrics because
they are woven from threads of a consistent diameter. Most of the
evenweave fabrics are counted by so many threads by the inch and are
worked much like the linen fabrics.
Needlepoint Canvas
Quite often needlepoint canvas is used for cross-stitch, especially on
clothing and things that are not suitable alone. In fact waste canvas
is designed to unravel when dampened. And the count runs from 6 1/2 to
20 stitches per inch.
Hardanger Fabric
Now hardanger fabric is used for the extra fine cross-stitch. This is
the traditional fabric used for the famous Norwegian embroidery of the
same name. This weave produces 22 small squares per inch.
Threads for Cross-Stitching
Most threads used for embroidery can be used for cross-stitching, just
separate the threads into ones, twos, threes, fours, etc, etc. The more
threads you use the richer the work will look, the less threads the
more fragile it will look. The rayon or silk floss will give your work
a shine or slick look but sometimes they are more difficult to use as
they tend to tangle. Pearl cotton is also a high sheen.
Flower Thread and Other Specialty Threads
Flower thread is 100% cotton with a matte finish and is used as a
single thread (same as two ply). Over dyed threads are introduced on
the market almost everyday. Most of them give that one of a kind
appearance because of their irregularly variegated colors. All of the
threads I have mentioned so far are available in this form also. They
are great for when you want to change colors without having the need to
change threads.
Yarn and Ribbon
When working with the large projects you can use yarn, ribbon and even
strips of fabric to give your work your own personal touch. The larger
the squares the larger ply thread you can use.
Needles
Generally blunt pointed needles are better for working on most
cross-stitch fabrics because they slip through the holes and threads
without snagging and splitting the fibers. There is one exception to
this rule, when working with waste canvas you will need to use the
sharp embroidery type needles. And a lot of companies sell the blunt
needles labeled "Cross-stitch" but they are identical the the tapestry
needles which have a much larger selection to choose from.
The First Pattern
Your first pattern should be something small and simple, so you would
be better off starting out with a small kit. It’s kind of like using
training wheels on your first bike… it will give you a little
security. Besides it comes with needles, floss, fabric and anything
else you need to complete your first project.
Good luck and happy stitching.
About the Author:
For more Arts and Crafts articles by Ian Williamson please visit www.real-articles.com/Category/Crafts/85
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: Charles Cox
The basic element in studying crochet patterns and instruction is
learning to understand the style of writing and interpreting crochet
abbreviations. However, just remember that you don’t have to learn and
memorize the symbols and abbreviations immediately because you can
always refer to your list when needed.
Crocheting directions generally make liberal use of parentheses ( ) and
asterisks (*) to show pattern repetitions. For instance, when the
pattern instructs you to “repeat from *” you need to examine and look
back at the instruction of the row that you currently are working on
and then locate the asterisk (*). Crochet the instruction instantly
following that asterisk (*).
Generally only one asterisk (*) in a row is found and the “repeats”
will bring you to the row ending so that there is no supplementary
instruction required for where you should end the repeats.
There are a few patterns that uses a “single asterisk (*)”at the start
and at the end of “the repeat”. So that when you arrive to the
succeeding “single asterisk (*), you are aware that it is the spot
where that “repeat” will be stopped.
At certain times patterns uses “single asterisk (*) and a “double
asterisk (**), where the “double asterisk (**)” is normally used to
indicate where you need to end the repeat; for instance, a pattern
instructs you to “repeat from * to **”. You need to search for, going
backwards in the instructions of the round which you are working on and
locate the asterisk (*). Then you need to crochet the instructions at
once succeeding that asterisk (*) and then continue till such time you
arrive to the double asterisk (**), then you need to stop and begin to
crochet once more at the course where you stop or left off before
making the repeat.
Here are things to keep in mind when looking at a crochet pattern:
1. Crocheting patterns and instructions are worked usually in rounds or
rows. Every pattern will spell out if you are doing or working in
rounds, rows or mixture of both.
2. Almost all crochet patterns and instructions are generally ranked
according to difficulty level such as advanced, intermediate, easy or
beginner. Select a pattern with a difficulty level that suits your
abilities, to avoid frustration when trying to finish a pattern that
has advanced level. As you continue on working and increase your
crochet experience, then you can work on to the next difficulty level.
3. It is important to count the stitches you have made as you go on
with your work so will be able to keep track of how many more are
needed on each round or row as required by the pattern.
4. You will need to verify your gauge. To do so, crochet a sample of
about 4 X 4 inches size in the pattern that is used your crochet
instructions. When your gauge turned out to be larger than that
indicated by the pattern, then use a smaller hook; when your gauge
turned out to be smaller, then try using a much larger hook.
5. Enrolling in a crochet class can be very helpful when you are beginning to learn crochet.
When just starting out, never be discouraged for not being able to
understand each pattern and its abbreviations. Reading and
understanding crochet patterns will take constant practice.
About the Author:
C.S.Cox published the acclaimed instructional book, "Crocheting Made
Simple" which has taught numerous people how to crochet. Find out how
to sign up for the FREE Crocheting Made Simple Newsletter at www.crochetmadesimple.com
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: Charles Cox
The basic element in studying crochet patterns and instruction is
learning to understand the style of writing and interpreting crochet
abbreviations. However, just remember that you don’t have to learn and
memorize the symbols and abbreviations immediately because you can
always refer to your list when needed.
Crocheting directions generally make liberal use of parentheses ( ) and
asterisks (*) to show pattern repetitions. For instance, when the
pattern instructs you to “repeat from *” you need to examine and look
back at the instruction of the row that you currently are working on
and then locate the asterisk (*). Crochet the instruction instantly
following that asterisk (*).
Generally only one asterisk (*) in a row is found and the “repeats”
will bring you to the row ending so that there is no supplementary
instruction required for where you should end the repeats.
There are a few patterns that uses a “single asterisk (*)”at the start
and at the end of “the repeat”. So that when you arrive to the
succeeding “single asterisk (*), you are aware that it is the spot
where that “repeat” will be stopped.
At certain times patterns uses “single asterisk (*) and a “double
asterisk (**), where the “double asterisk (**)” is normally used to
indicate where you need to end the repeat; for instance, a pattern
instructs you to “repeat from * to **”. You need to search for, going
backwards in the instructions of the round which you are working on and
locate the asterisk (*). Then you need to crochet the instructions at
once succeeding that asterisk (*) and then continue till such time you
arrive to the double asterisk (**), then you need to stop and begin to
crochet once more at the course where you stop or left off before
making the repeat.
Here are things to keep in mind when looking at a crochet pattern:
1. Crocheting patterns and instructions are worked usually in rounds or
rows. Every pattern will spell out if you are doing or working in
rounds, rows or mixture of both.
2. Almost all crochet patterns and instructions are generally ranked
according to difficulty level such as advanced, intermediate, easy or
beginner. Select a pattern with a difficulty level that suits your
abilities, to avoid frustration when trying to finish a pattern that
has advanced level. As you continue on working and increase your
crochet experience, then you can work on to the next difficulty level.
3. It is important to count the stitches you have made as you go on
with your work so will be able to keep track of how many more are
needed on each round or row as required by the pattern.
4. You will need to verify your gauge. To do so, crochet a sample of
about 4 X 4 inches size in the pattern that is used your crochet
instructions. When your gauge turned out to be larger than that
indicated by the pattern, then use a smaller hook; when your gauge
turned out to be smaller, then try using a much larger hook.
5. Enrolling in a crochet class can be very helpful when you are beginning to learn crochet.
When just starting out, never be discouraged for not being able to
understand each pattern and its abbreviations. Reading and
understanding crochet patterns will take constant practice.
About the Author:
C.S.Cox published the acclaimed instructional book, "Crocheting Made
Simple" which has taught numerous people how to crochet. Find out how
to sign up for the FREE Crocheting Made Simple Newsletter at www.crochetmadesimple.com
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: Byran Kempa
Beginner crochet books, guides and classes are becoming more popular as
women and men begin to enjoy the ancient art of crocheting. Whether the
interest in crocheting comes from a desire to create something, or
comes from a desire to engage in a therapeutic activity, beginner
crochet products and services are skyrocketing in popularity.
Crocheting, unlike knitting, is done with one "needle". With the right
technique, it is possible to crochet everything from blankets and
throws, to scarves and hats, to sweaters and wraps and more. Though
someone in beginner crocheting will not be making elaborate designs,
they will be learning the skills they need to create terrific items.
As with most things, when learning crochet you must first learn the
basics. Once you learn the basics you will be able to expand your grasp
of the craft and do more elaborate stitches and create more dynamic
things.
Many people are surprised to learn that there are many boys, young men
and men also learning crochet. Some people learn crochet after a family
member or friend shows them what they can do. Also, they learn that
crocheting can be relaxing.
If you are taking up crocheting, you should take your time and learn
the craft. Try not to go beyond your abilities at first or you may find
yourself frustrated. One good thing about crocheting, however, is that
you are able to "rip out" the stitches and reuse the same yarn.
Yarn varies in style and texture. Experimenting with different needles
and different yarns is a good ideas, especially for someone new to
crocheting. Once you get the feel of the stitches and of the particular
yarn you are using you will be surprised at how quickly you are able to
crochet and master the craft.
When buying yarn, remember to pay careful attention to the dye lot so
you can be assured that the yarn is all the same color and shade. If
you are making something that requires more than one skein of yarn, you
will be surprised to learn how obvious it is if you use skeins from
different dye lots.
As you begin your quest to learn more about crocheting, have fun, enjoy
and begin to create wonderful things. It all starts with the basics and
that means mastering beginner crochet. Remember to take it step by
step, and soon you will be a professional!
About the Author:
Byran Kempa for Crochet Source
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: Joan Yankowitz
Here are some helpful and handy tips and tricks that will make crocheting easier and keep you more organized.
1. When the afghan you’re crocheting becomes too long and heavy, place
quilting rings around the end you’ve already finished. It will make it
easy to just flip it over when crocheting the next row.
2. When someone asks you to make something for them, write it in a
notebook. Write their name, when they will need it by, and the item
they want crocheted. Also write down where the pattern can be found.
When you finish the crocheted item, take a picture of it and keep it in
a photo album so when someone asks what you crochet, you can show them.
3. Threading a large-eyed needle with the loose strings after finishing
a project and weaving the loose strings into the project are easier
than using the hook. It just takes minutes to do a whole blanket with
multiple thread changes.
4. If you are a beginner and frequently lose your place, write the patterns on lined paper, one instruction at a time.
5. When traveling, use an empty plastic coke bottle to keep the hooks from escaping.
6. To keeping blocks clean as you crochet them before putting them
together, keep them in a locked plastic bag. Use a small pad of paper
and pen to keep track of how many blocks are made.
7. Use a small safety pin to hold a stitch when you put a project away.
8. The fabric store sells yarn cutters to wear around your neck.
Keeping cutters on a yarn around your neck will keep you from
constantly having to search for them. The fabric store sells them.
9. Keep skeins and balls from getting tangled by cutting a hole in the
top of an empty plastic coffee container, then melting the edges of the
hole with a lighter or match to keep the wool from snagging. If you
have several projects going at the same time, use labels or tape on the
tops or sides of each container to write the project name and other
important information. Tape a small bit of dryer sheet to the inside of
each lid to keep the wool smelling good and prevent static.
10. Use a three-ring binder with clear sheet protectors to organize
your patterns. Use a pencil pouch also with three holes for extra
hooks, gauge check, and anything else you need to keep handy.
11. When you open a new crochet ball of thread, take the paper and put
it inside the center of the ball. Then, when you need new thread,
you’ll have the color and all the information for your next ball of
thread.
12. Use a tooth brush holder to hold your hooks.
It’s easy to find and you can drop hooks in your purse and go.
13. To store scrap yarn, buy an inexpensive collapsible hamper, put the
same color yarns in plastic grocery bags and store all the bags in the
hamper.
14. Take a two-liter plastic bottle and cut the middle to make a door.
Then place your large yarn inside and pull the string through the neck
.It keeps the 8oz yarn organized.
15. Make your new hook smooth and slick by rubbing it into your hair.
16. To prevent woven-in ends from coming loose, weave on a diagonal line instead of straight up or across.
17. To keep your crochet yarn/cotton ball from rolling across the
floor, put it in a small plastic store bag with handles, hang it on
your arm and crochet in comfort.
18. Use a bobby pin as a marker for the end of rounds. It slips off and
on easily and doesn’t fray like scrap yarn markers. You can also use
bobby pins to hold the last stitch if you need to take the work off the
hook.
19. Store yarn in a zippered comforter bag.
20. Paperclips make great stitch counters. Just pop one on the stitch
you want to mark. Safety pins work great too, and are a little easier
to put on and take off.
21. Use a wooden wine rack for yarn storage. It works great, looks terrific, and is a nice conversation piece.
22. Empty prescription bottles can be very handy for keeping smaller crochet tools like row counters, beads, and yarn needles.
Now that you’re organized, have fun crocheting!
About the Author:
Joan Yankowitz publishes the popular consumer and business Kwik eGuides. Instantly download the How to Crochet Kwik Guide.
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: Charles Cox
Crocheting is very relaxing, rewarding, and can be learned quite
easily. Crochet is a technique favored by those who enjoy needlecrafts,
mainly because crochet stitches allow you to make useful home decor
such as doilies, bedspreads, blankets and tablecloths which add to your
home environment.
Here are some things worth knowing about before starting a crochet project:
1. All crochet designs begin with a “foundation chain” that can be long
(for afghan) or short for a project that starts as a "circle".
2. Understand that applying even pressure is important so as to make the correct size of your project.
3. With each project, you should try out a sample and then adjust the
size of the hook either down or up to reach the gauge required.
4. Hold the hook and the yarn in such manner that it is comfortable to you and just let the yarn flow without restraint.
5. The loop that is on the hook is not always counted.
6. The correct number or counting of chains should be formed always at
the start of every row in order for you to continue at the correct
height or length for the succeeding row. This “turning chain”
establishes the first or “initial stitch” of the subsequent row.
7. At all times, you need to pick two loops that is from the previous
row of the stitch except when the pattern indicates back or front loop.
8. A “space” is described as the interval between stitches.
9. Do not make a “slip stitch” into your first stitch.
10. After your completed work, you need to pull through a “loop on
hook” one last time and cut the yarn and pull the end through.
Here are some basic crochet stitches that you need to familiarize yourself with:
1. Chain stitch or “ch”. Create a “loop in thread” and insert your hook
in the loop, and pull towards you the central length of the yarn
through. Continue drawing the yarn through every new loop that you form
until you reach the desired length.
2. Single crochet stitch or “sc”. You will need to insert the hook
underneath two loops of a stitch then draw the yarn through the stitch,
creating “2 loops on hook”, then thread over the hook and pull through
towards your direction the two loops.
3. “Half double crochet” stitch or “half dc”. Create similar double
crochet stitches until you form three “loops on hook” and thread over
the pull the yarn through all of three loops.
4. Double crochet stitch “dc”. Thread over the hook, then insert the
hook in the stitch and then pull the thread towards you through, making
“3 loops on hook”, then you need to thread the hook over and pull
through “two loops”, and once more thread over and pull through the
remaining two loops.
5. Treble stitch or “tr”. You need to thread over the hook two times
then insert the hook in the stitch and pull the thread through the
stitch, creating “4 loops on hook” then thread over, pull through the 2
loops, and thread over, then pull through “2 loops”, then thread over,
pull through the remaining 2 loops.
6. Slip stitch or “sl st”. Insert the hook through the stitch, then
catch the yarn, and with a single motion, pull both stitches through
and the “1 loop on hook”. This stitch is used generally for joining.
7. Popcorn stitch or “pc st”. Make one chain stitch, five double
crochet stitches then drop stitches from hook and insert the “hook”
back in that 1 chain stitch and pull the “loop” through the “one on
hook”.
8. “Block (bl) and space (sp)” stitch. You need to create four double
crochet stitches over four stitches of the preceding row, making 1
block, then create 2 chain stitches skip 2 stitches, creating 1 space
stitch.
The saying “practice makes perfect” is so very true in crochet. With
practice, patience and determination one can easily make simple crochet
patterns. So have some fun while you’re doing it!
About the Author:
C.S.Cox published the acclaimed instructional book, "Crocheting Made
Simple" which has taught numerous people how to crochet. Find out how
to sign up for the FREE Crocheting Made Simple Newsletter at www.crochetmadesimple.com
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: Charles Cox
Free crochet patterns for babies are indeed a welcome sight for new
mothers, given that they’ve already had too many expenses, and most
simply can’t afford to buy newer clothes as baby grows. So for mothers
who already know how to make their baby’s clothes, it is always a good
thing to find a free crochet pattern.
But before grabbing the first free crochet pattern for your baby’s
clothes, it is worthwhile to keep a few things in mind which will avoid
irritation later. And more irritation is certainly the last thing any
new mother needs at the moment.
Here’s a list:
1. Try to learn the standard crochet abbreviations
If this is your first time in dealing with a free crochet pattern for
your baby, then you might have a difficult time trying to translate the
verbiage. Crochet patterns are full of abbreviations and this code
needs to be understood. You may want to obtain a crochet glossary to
translate the symbols at first. Fret not as you will catch on to the
abbreviations must quicker than you think.
2. Be careful on the asterisk
If you think there are too many asterisks in the pattern, this is not
the case. Asterisks are included in the patterns not for the sole sake
of annoying the crocheter, but for a very valid reason. Asterisks
indicate the starting line of the instructions, which will be employed
more than one time. For instance, if the pattern instruction says "rep
between ** three times" this means that you have to work on the
instructions for another three times after you have worked on it once.
That would be 4 repetitions overall.
3. Be wary on the brackets
Brackets are not used in pattern instructions just for the sake of
having them. They are used to elucidate the instructions. Usually, they
are combined with the parentheses.
4. Parentheses
These are generally used to put in instructions that should be toiled
within the correct number or instances that the instructions are
carried out. The number should be stated right after the parentheses.
Moreover, parentheses are used to record the size of the pattern to be
used as well as the size of the clothing. It is also used to spell out
the directions further.
5. Learn to read "yarn labels"
Reading a crochet pattern would also require you to learn how to read
yard labels. Before you buy the yarns that are specified in the
pattern, it is necessary that you should know the kind of yarn that is
required for a particular pattern, the measurement, "yardage of the
skein," and the fiber substance and the proper care for each material.
6. Choose the hooks wisely
Hooks may vary depending on the size that is being required by a
particular pattern. This goes to show that not all crochet hooks can
work well with all kinds of patterns. Crochet hooks have different
sizes, which may affect the kinds of loops that will be produced.
Needless to say, there are more things involved in dealing with a free
crochet pattern for your baby than meets the eye. However, after you
start training yourself, you will find that there is reason to the
madness and you will come to appreciate all the information provided
with the patterns.
About the Author:
C.S.Cox published the acclaimed instructional book, "Crocheting Made
Simple" which has taught numerous people how to crochet. Find out how
to sign up for the FREE Crocheting Made Simple Newsletter at www.crochetmadesimple.com
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
By: Byran Kempa
Crochet purses are a classic and stylish replacement for leather or
vinyl purses. Not only that, they are inexpensive and fun to make!
Finding the perfect pattern for your crochet purse is the easy part.
There are literally thousands of purse patterns available for free
online. From a traditional granny square bag to a freeform purse, from
a ruffled handbag to Star Spangled clutch, you are sure to find what
you want online. (Of course, if you want to have a picture of Whinny
the Pooh or Mickey Mouse on your purse, you will have to pay for a
commercial pattern.)
Now that you have your pattern, you are ready to start crocheting. The
art of crochet is deceptively simple: all you need is a ball of yarn
and a single hook. With these two things, you can create a single piece
of fabric made by using the hook to loop and loop the yarn. By using
different sizes of hooks, or varying the thickness, texture or color of
the yarn, you can create endlessly innovative creations. The only limit
when you are crocheting is your imagination.
The great thing about making your own purse, is that you can design it
any way you like. The easiest designs are solid patterns, or basic
geometrical patterns such as stripes or checks. Even with simple
patterns, you can make your purse interesting by using different
textures. At the more advanced end of the spectrum, you can actually
crochet images onto your purse, although you should get a lot of
practice with more simple designs before tackling such an ambitious
project.
Nonetheless, despite the endless possibilities, if you are working on
your first crochet pattern, you should probably stick to ones that use
basic stitches such as the Afghan stitch, the puff stitch, or the V
stitch. Trying more advanced stitches your first time out, such as the
Tunisian Purl stitch, the double crochet cluster stitch, or the reverse
popcorn stitch could leave you with a very mangled purse with oblong
sides. (Of course, if anyone asks, you can always just say that you are
trying to take crochet to new levels!) Indeed, before trying to crochet
your own purse, it would probably be best to first try crocheting
smaller items, such as coasters, or granny squares you can eventually
incorporate into a larger project.
Making crochet purses can be a great hobby for you. It is an incredibly
relaxing hobby that will leave you with stylish and functional purses.
And best of all, it will make you part of a centuries old tradition.
About the Author:
Byran Kempa for Crochet Source - A site with news and articles on crocheting and crochet patterns such as crochet cape patterns.
Article Source: http://www.therealarticles.com
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