DIY : Crocheting

Crochet is a kind of work which owes its name to the hook. The French work for hook is “crochet”. The hook is used to do work. It is an ancient art that is easy to do. Crochet can be done even while one is listening to the radio or conversing with friends. It may be done during leisure time. You will enjoy crocheting. Crocheting, like embroidery, is both an enjoyable and a gainful activity.

Crocheting is an interlacing of loops formed with a single hook. It can be used in making a dress, a sweater, a bag, decorative edgings for handkerchiefs, and other articles. Doilies, runners, table covers, and bedspreads can be crocheted.

Tools and Materials. The right hook and thread should be used to make beautiful crochet. There are different kinds and sizes of hooks. There are different kinds and sizes of threads. The hook and the thread are selected according to the article to be made. Crochet hooks are usually made of wood, plastic, steel or bamboo. Crochet hooks selected should be smooth. It should not be pointed. The back of the hook should be slightly rounded. The handle should be flat than rounded. It should be light enough. If the hook is heavy, it will tire the hand easily. It is pleasant to work with a light hook. It will not only help make a beautiful project but it will not tire the hand. The size of the hook should match that of the thread. If the hook is too fine for the thread being used, the stitches will be too small. The lace will not be stiff enough. A hook that is too small is difficult to use. It wears out more quickly than a larger one. The hook should be right for the thread.

Beginners should use a coarse hook at the start. A coarse thread that matches the hook should be used. There are several brands of threads for crochet. Like embroidery thread, the different brands indicate their sizes in different ways. Beginner may use #20 Alexander ball thread. The finer the thread, the finer and more beautiful is the lace. Fine lace takes a longer time to make. It is also difficult to handle.

Threads may be finished in different ways. Bleached thread is thread that has been whitened through chemicals or through exposure to the sun. Mercerized thread is thread that is shiny. It is strong. Mercerized thread for crochet is more twisted. It is easier to handle in crocheting. Crochet lace made from mercerized thread looks prettier than that made from threads of other finish.