The Art Of Crochet, Moving Thread Or Yarn Into Beautiful Shapes!
The Fluid Movement of Crochet - You Can Achieve It!
Maybe you've thought about learning to crochet and it just seemed too scary. Or maybe you've tried it but the darned hook just won't cooperate! Crocheting becomes fun when you achieve a fluid movement that becomes second nature. When you're sitting watching TV or having a conversation with someone while crocheting, you're there in the fluid movement zone. It's all about training your hands to do the motions effortlessly. You're not going to get there in a day or a week. Just like learning to drive a car, flip a pancake, thread a needle, or type, it takes practice, and lots of it! But the reward is so worth it.
In this article we're going to talk about two different things relating to the movement called Crochet. First, for people who are already crocheting with yarn and want to move down to working with thread, I'll offer a few suggestions on how to do that.
Secondly, for beginners who have always wanted to learn to crochet, I'll offer a large selection of video tutorials on YouTube. For some of us who are visual learners, video is more helpful than a book. It's the next best thing to having someone sit there and teach you!
If you are wanting to "hook up" with other crocheters, I'll offer a few suggestions for online groups you can join. There, you can ask your questions, show off your latest masterpiece, or just chat with people with whom you have this amazing hobby in common! You can even join my own crochet group on Yahoo if you want to!
If you're an experienced crocheter, think about finding a way to pass on your craft to someone!
Whatever your skill level, I wish you happy crocheting! -Sheila
You Say...
Are You A Threadie... A Yarnie... Or Both?
Get The Hooks I Use! - You Will LOVE Them!
To me, this is simply the best crochet hook out there. It comes in all sizes, right down to steel thread hooks. (I'm gradually collecting them all!) No, it's not the cheapest hook... but it's never going to break on you if you pull hard, either. The ergonomic grip handle saves a lot of hand fatigue. In fact, with the arthritis in my hands I wouldn't be crocheting if I didn't have the Clover hooks!
What You Will Need
To crochet requires two things: A crochet hook in the right size for the yarn you are using, and of course yarn. Again I highly recommend using a very basic yarn such as Peaches n' Cream or Sugar n' Cream yarn in 100% cotton. Both are readily available anywhere and yarn doesn't get any more basic than 100% smooth cotton. You have years to play with all those pretty fancy yarns out there, but right now they're not the best for learning. You need to see your stitches clearly and the cotton is perfect for that.
Your crochet hook is equally important. I recommend you try the Clover Soft Touch line of hooks. They're so easy and balanced to hold in your hand and prevent a lot of hand fatigue. For your cotton yarn, I'd recommend you start with size H (US). You can get your hook right now in the module just below, or they are available in many yarn and craft stores.
What Do You Think? - Come On, You Can Tell Me!
All You'll Need On Amazon!
How Do You Feel About Crocheting?
WOW I'm Actually Crocheting!
A Word About Yarn Selection...
When you are first learning to crochet, the simpler the thread or yarn, the better. For yarn, I recommend any of the Peaches n' Cream or or Sugar & Cream cotton yarns. They're cheap, they come in tons of colors, and yarn doesn't get any more basic. Lots of time for those fancy fluffy yarns later!
Learn To Crochet On YouTube!
The Most Important Thing
If you're frustrated trying to learn to crochet, don't give up!! It's a matter of your brain teaching your hands what to do, just like you taught your legs and arms how to ride a bike! The only way to train your hands is by repetitive practice. Start by making a huge long chain, then learn the single crochet stitch and work that on your whole long chain. You'll be doing patterns in no time, just be patient and master the basic movements first!
Here's My Book Pick On Amazon! - I'm Buying This One!
In this book, author Kathryn Vercillo tells quite an amazing story of how Crocheting saved her life! Here is the book's write-up from Amazon...
Crochet saves lives. It saved mine.
In the worst throes of depression I found myself sobbing on the bathroom floor, the tip of a kitchen knife pointed into my wrist. I was aching to break the flesh and bring the pain to an end. Through sheer force of will, I pried my own desperate hands open and replaced the knife with a crochet hook. Then I crocheted to save my life.
In this book, you will get to know me through my story of depression and healing. And you will get to know other women as well. You will meet Aurore who crochets to stay in touch with reality as she deals with ongoing psychiatric hallucinations. You will meet Laurie who made a new life with crochet after years of a life filled with abuse. You will meet Tammy whose crochet helps her with the ups and downs of living with Chronic Lyme Disease. You will meet Liza who crochets through the anxiety of having temporary bouts of blindness caused by an undiagnosed health condition.
Here are some of the things you will hear them say:
"When I crochet I don't think about how my body is now broken; I think about how I can create something beautiful and useful with my hook and either yarn or thread." -Vicki
"When I'm anxious, I feel like a hollow hull. Crocheting helps fill up the void." - Aurore
"I couldn't pay for therapy, but a few balls of crochet thread cost less than $20 and provided me with many hours of crochet." - M.K.
"The feeling of the yarn and the rhythmic motions produced by crocheting are very quieting and help me regroup, recharge and become reconnected to my inner self amidst turmoil and confusion." - Aimee
"Crochet helps me put my pain on the back burner for a while. It takes my focus away from how I'm feeling and puts it in a more productive place". - Shelli
The two dozen women whose stories are shared in this book are the women who hook to heal. We are not alone. Studies shows that crocheters are numerous; research and anecdotal evidence show that people of all ages, from all walks of life, with all types of health conditions may find healing through their hooks and yarn. Join us on our journey.
Links To Some Of My Favorite Crochet Places!
- My Own Crochet Group!
You're welcome to join in, have a cup of coffee, and always be the very first to hear about my new patterns! - Crochet Partners
An awesome huge crochet group that I belong to. Anyone from crochet professionals to beginning crocheters hangs out there. - Crochet Guild of America
Join the premier national Crochet organization for invaluable networking and other opportunities! Membership includes a great crochet magazine subscription. I'm a proud member. - Crochet Pattern Central
Awesome index of free crochet patterns on the web. You'll find anything and everything there.
I was very honored that Squidoo chose this lens as Lens Of The Day on Friday, July 27, 2012. Thank you Squidoo, and thank you everyone who visited, liked, blessed and commented on this lens! I appreciate you all very much!
How To Transition From Yarn All The Way Down To Sewing Thread Easily!
Do you gaze longingly at those pretty thread crochet doilies, scarves, even tablecloths and bedspreads? Well, you can master the art of thread crochet! It's simply a matter of training your hands to do the same movements, just on a smaller scale!
The most popular method to change from yarn to thread is the gradual one. If you're used to using worsted weight yarn with a size H hook, pick up a ball of size 3 crochet thread (such as DMC's Senso, or Aunt Lydia's Bamboo) and a size E or F hook. Try crocheting a simple swatch of rows of single crochet with it. Once you are very comfortable with the size 3 thread, it's time to move on down a notch. Get yourself a Clover Soft Hook in size 0 (don't worry, that's the biggest thread hook size!) and some cotton 6-strand embroidery floss. Crochet up a little swatch with that.
Once you are totally comfortable, it's time to move down to a size 7 hook and regular #10 crochet thread. I recommend DMC's Traditions or if you like a softer feel, try America's Best crochet cotton. Make a good size sample swatch with that. All the usual things in yarn crochet apply, like making your stitches firm but not too tight.
If eyesight is an issue for you, as it is for me, make sure you have a very good daylight lamp to work by. The Ott lights are considered the best. Below I've picked out a good, affordable one for you.
Are you doing it? Are you actually doing thread crochet? I knew you could!
Now if you want to get totally crazy... get yourself a size 9 or 10 hook and pick out several colors of sewing thread you like... tie a knot with 5 strands held together and crochet a swatch with that! Helpful hint - keep all the spools separated so they don't tangle up! I use this technique often when crocheting tiny flowers or ornaments. You can't always find the exact color you want in crochet thread, but it's a sure bet you can find something in sewing thread or even embroidery floss!
This lens appeared as Squidoo's Lens Of The Day on July 27, 2012. This was my first LotD! I was one happy girl!
Search Amazon For What You Want!
Thank You, Squidoo! - I'm Very Honored!
This lens was awarded a Purple Star, Squidoo's highest honor, on July 24, 2012. Thanks so much, Squidoo!
Graphic Courtesy of Dave Sutton
Please Crochet Your Name In My Guestbook! - Kidding, Just Signing Is Fine!
Hi not very experienced at blogging. but I love your site and of course the crochet,Valerie
A new blessing on this lovely lens and may you have a wonderful, successful and happy 2013. Hugs
I'm just learning, this is very helpful.
Didn't know people were crocheting with anything other yarn! Interesting!. Now I have a better idea why my Aunt likes to Crochet. Thanks for sharing!
- AUTHOR
@Wednesday-Elf: Thanks so much for your very kind comment! I'll have to go and check out
your critters - I'm sure you have some lenses on them, yes? Have you ever
tried doing thread patterns in yarn? Just wondering... some of my patterns
work really well doing that, like the new Backward Rose Potholder. Thanks
so much for featuring me on your page, too! I am honored. Happy
crocheting!
SheilaSchnauzies
I love crochet and do some every day. My favorite is to crochet cute 'critters' (plush animals) using acrylic yarn and a size F hook. Cotton yarn is also good. I have yet to master thread crochet -- cannot keep a proper tension going and it comes out lopsided (and the smallness frustrates me...LOL). But, with all crochet, as you say, 'practice' is the key to learning. As surgeons say, it's all "muscle memory"! I'm going to feature this page on my crafty creative crochet lens.
Nice lens. Featured on Blessed by Skiesgreen 2012-2 and also on Squidoo LOTD Lenses-2. Hugs
It is a really useful and interesting Lens! I will learn to crochet in the near future!
Danielle Chaney was here
thank you for sharing! ;)
Wonderful lens! Congratulations on LOTD!
Interesting! You deserve the LOTD.
Congratulations on your LOTD - well done. Enjoyed your lens.
Just signing here - congratulations to you on LOTD - I might just go find a hook! Blessed -
Crocheting is a wonderful hobby. This made me get out my basket of yarn and needles and start a new project. Thanks for the inspiration. Blessed and pinned to my Squid Angel Board.
I took a year break from crocheting. . . other areas of art took over. Come to think of it just last week I started a black scarf for myself. Crocheting is one of my favorite ways to unwind from the day or to do while meditating.
I love crochet - it grows quickly & mistakes are easily remedied.
I like to make-up my own patterns, and have taught classes for beginners.
My mother taught me - she was great.
Way back in the sixties she made a full-length wedding dress for my friend.
It had long puffy sleeves, tiny pearl buttons all the way down the back and included a matching head-dress - all without a pattern!
What would a skill like that be worth today??
I love crochet, spent some hours this afternoon embellishing a plain black evening top and cardigan with fine silver crochet edging for my daughter - looks SO effective.
Also love to see a story of the joy of crocheting like yours, Sheila - well deserved LOTD.
Christine
I love to crochet; I'm trying to sneak up on size 20 thread right now. *laugh* An Ott light is definitely on my wish list.
I found Ravelry several weeks ago (and boy am I in trouble now with all those free patterns! ;o) Nice lens, and congratulations on LoTD.
Great lens! Love learning more about crochet.
Congrats on winning lotd more of that
Crocheting and knitting are two skills I didn't do well with. Tension too tight!
I've never done this, but admire the work of those who have.
You're certainly making wonderful things that people will cherish. Congratulations on receiving the Lens of the Day.
Congratulations on LotD!! I did learn to crochet, but did not keep it up.
Excellent lens! Congratulations on winning the Len of Th Day (LOTD)!
My mom was a prolific crocheter - made gifts for every occasion that the recipients treasured for years.
I've always wanted to crochet, but it looks so hard
My wife crochet's she does a very fine job, made me a scarf and a comfy socks :)
very nice...I've been playing around with simple afghans and this is inspiring me to explore a little more. Thanks!
Nice lens...I have been crocheting all my life and it's very relaxing
Even if som people think of crochet of some sort of granda's activity, i believe it's an art and really good for de-stressing our life. Thank you for a very nice post
Congratulation on your LotD and your purple star.I need to refresh my memory.
Been crocheting since I was young. Now it is second nature. Great article and congrats on LOTD! Blessings. :)
Congrats on LOTD! Great job on this lens by the way. Thanks for sharing!
Congratulations on LOTD! Thanks for the lesson and great pictures ~ and perhaps a gentle push to try it! B : )
I have loved crochet since I saw my first purse pattern over 40 years ago. Brilliant lens!
I know people who crochet with sewing thread but I find #10 thread a bit challenging still - I like the bulkier yarns better plus I get an immediate reward for my efforts.
You just reminded me of how much Ienjoy crocheting and I'll have to get some projects going! Great lens!
Terrific lens. Congratulations on getting LoTD!
I am not sure if crocheting is for me, but very informative lens nonetheless. Congrats on LOTD!
I love this lens I learn a lot about crocheting! Thanks for sharing
This is a fun craft, and nice lens.
I love to crochet, but I have been really slacking lately. Thank you for the great lens, it was a great wake up call. Crocheting with sewing thread is new to me. I'll be trying that next!
So many cute things to crochet. Congrats on LOTD!
Wonderful! I feel inspired to start again.
Very interesting and informative lens. Congratulations on LOTD.
Lovely page...I love to crochet:-) Thank you for sharing your sites, and congrats on the LOTD.
Congrats on lotd!
Interesting stuff.
Congratulations on LOTD! looks like a great project to do!
Congratulations on LOTD! I enjoy crocheting very much, especially since my grandma taught me.
I love the final products, but I don't think I have the patience. Congratulations on LOTD. Well deserved.
What a lovely lens! Thanks for sharing - blessed by a SquidAngel, and big congrats on LotD! :)
Fun! Thanks. Got my juices flowing again to find another big box of crochet cotton to get me through next winter. Yard sales, here I come! d
I loved it when I tried it, but just haven't gotten back into it. Thanks for the inspiration to get back to giving it another try. Great lens and congrats on LOTD!
Both of my grandmothers were into crocheting. I inherited some beautiful work very dear to my heart. Great lens! Congratulations!
I started crochet just a week ago, and am loving it. It's so relaxing. I'll definitely be using your videos to see how I can do it better/faster. Congratulations on Lens of the Day; this is a great lens!
Nice Lens well done!
Great LOTD. I may just have to go and crochet something!
Love this inspiring Lens of the Day!
Congratulations on LotD. My daughter is a stay at home Mom, and does crocheting to earn money. I have never learned to this, but think its wonderful!
Congrats! Great lens! Crochet reminds me of my a couple of ladies in my life that I miss dearly ... thanks for the memories!
great lens Thx for sharing...
Beautifully done lens. Congratulations on Lens of the Day :))
Congratulations, this amazing lens was selected as LotD today. You can read all about it at SquidooHQ: http://hq.squidoo.com/lotd/the-art-of-crochet-movi...
Great Lens. I am working on a granny stripe afghan for my mother. I love this simple pattern. This the only pattern my grandmother does. Funny!
I love the tangled creations of crochet you can create! nd yes I jut kept practising and practicing and now the list is endless of what you can create.....always wondered how to crochet with thread, would it be more? well you have made it sound effortless, i shall need to try, absoloutely onderful and your passion for this art shines through...congratulations on lens Of the Day!
My grandmother crocheted well into her 90's. I have many of her afghans scattered around my home. I feel like I wrap myself i n her love whenever I use them. My younger daughter is learning to crochet via YouTube. I knew basic stuff from my past to help her, but I have bookmarked this lens for her to use. Thank you for the help!
This looks really beautiful. I wish I would know how to do chrochet! *blessed*
Great lens..I used to crochet a bit all I ever learned was how to do the granny square and you are right about not even noticing what you are doing after awhile your fingers just seem to do it for you. I used to love crocheting in the winter. Seeing your lens reminded me that I always wanted to learn a few more stitches..great post thanks!
Congrats on the LOTD. I really enjoyed it.
I've wanted to do very find crochet with thread, as I like to design jewelry. I appreciate your info on crocheting with thread especially. Excellent lens.
I also like crochet. it is fun!
Very pretty lens you have here. Lots of great info and beautiful designs you've created for us to see and enjoy. I'm an avid crocheter myself. It's a great way to turn off the stress from work etc.
Great job on this lens and LOTD! Love crochet!
I hadn't thought of using sewing thread for crochet. Now I want to try it. Blessings!
Great lens! Congrats on LotD! :)
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