Teaching kids to crochet and/or knit

Looking for a craft to teach your children? A craft which will result in quality, usable and functioning products? A craft which will teach them focus, goal setting and accomplishment as well as design planning and follow through? Sounds like a tall order, right? Nope, the answer is as simple as teaching them to crochet or knit.

Crocheting.
Crocheting is a great place to start, particularly for younger children, because it uses a single needle. Children as young as four can be taught to crochet. Required supplies include:

o Size J hook
o Favorite color worsted weight yarn.
o Beginner pattern.

Hooks come in a variety of materials from metal to plastic. Lighter weight hooks are often easier for small hands to use effectively. It’s easier to teach a child to crochet if you’re sitting side by side so a couch is ideal, just make sure the television is off or they won’t be paying attention. It is important to note whether your child is left handed or right handed as the pattern directions will vary.

Beginner patterns are usually blankets or placemats. Remember to start small, be prepared for frustration in the beginning and set a mental time limit or create a goal – for example, let’s start with a 4X4 square so they feel like they’ve accomplished something when they finish.

Before beginning any project it’s important to master a few knots, practice them, and make your yarn skein into a yarn ball.

Knitting.

Like crochet, knitting is a great way to teach children focus, give them a sense of accomplishment, and is a great way for children to keep busy as an alternative to a television, computer or video game.

Knitting supplies:
o Size ten knitting needles
o Yarn, preferably wool
o A knitting pattern or project

Easy knitting patterns include a scarf, a potholder, or a hat. Begin like crocheting with your child sitting next to you somewhere comfortable. Sometimes it helps to have your child sitting in your lap so they can emulate your hand motions.

Like crochet needles it helps small hands if the needles are larger and if they are lightweight. Additionally, choose needles which have rounded tips rather than sharp pointed tips.

Patience is required when teaching knitting or crocheting. Knots can be difficult for small hands to master. If you become frustrated they will too. Knitting and crocheting are a fantastic way to bond with your child and to teach them the joy of crafting, the joy of creating something with their own two hands.

History of Crochet

Crocheting, a hobby loved by many and similar to embroidery, knitting and weaving, unlike its counterparts does not really have a set time of beginning. Crocheting is the process of creating fabric from yarn or thread using a crochet hook.

The first pictures of crochet are found in a Dutch magazine in 1824. Instructions are then found for crocheting in an 1847 publication, which outlined instructions on performing crochet stitches. The book however assumed the reader had some knowledge of other knitting techniques.

There are some claims that crochet existed before this time, and was performed with the forefinger rather than a hook.

Crocheting became a popular technique around the world. It was done by women and children to create blankets and clothes and then sold to make money. These items were mainly purchased by the emerging middle class.

The thoughts of crochet and its value changed over time, but was still a homemaker’s art as late as the 1960-70s. The 20^th century has also seen a rebirth of popularity with a rise of interested do it yourselfers.

Favorite Crocheting websites.

Crocheting is such a great thing to do once fall begins to roll around the corner. You may just be starting out or you may be an expect crocheter but no matter what you are there is always a project out there for you. Some people crochet to make money. Some people crochet as a hobby. Some people crochet to make wonderful gifts. So let share some of our favorite crocheting websites and why we love them so much.

• Craft Site Directory is a great site to find tons of different websites for tons of different crafts. But I love that they have so much going on with crocheting.
• Crocheting for Beginners is a great place to go if you are just starting out at crocheting. They have everything from the very beginning. They even have an eCourse that you can sign up for FREE for a limited time. So you have to go and sign up. You will learn everything from stitches to different types of crocheting and much more.
• Bev’s Country Cottage is my all time favorite crocheting website. She has everything there. She has patterns, links, and so much more at your fingertips. It is also a great site for knitting. You can also check out Bev’s blog to see what she is up to.
• Crochet pattern Central is also a great place where they have thousands of crocheting links.
• Craft Designs 4 you is a great place if you are looking to purchase some fun, great and beautiful patterns.
• Crochet Treasures. If you are looking for vintage patterns then Crochet Treasures is the place to go.

Some crochet projects can take a matter of hours while others take a matter of days. I normally work on my crocheting at night after the family is settled into bed and I have some quiet time. I find that sitting down with my crocheting and watching tv can be very relaxing.
Please share with the rest of us your favorite crocheting sites.

learn crochet

Learn the Craft of Crocheting - Crocheting is not really a hard skill to learn, but then neither is it an easy one either. In order to get you going, all you need is a good crochet hook, some yarns, measuring tape, yarn needle, some pins, and a lot of determination to finish a crocheting project.

Here is a rundown of tips on how to easily learn crocheting:

Hold the Yarn Like a Pro

For newbies in crocheting, holding yarn could be tricky. It takes some time to get used to it, but knowing how hold yarn properly and skillfully can not be overlooked.

Here is how:

1. Let the yarn pass through your fingers as you holding it. This is how it is done: the little finger, then, beneath the ring finger, then, above the forefinger and the middle finger.

2. Another way to hold the yarn is to loop in the region of the little finger, and then cross the forefinger.

3. Upon holding the hook, imagine how you are holding a pencil or spoon. That’s how it should be held. In that position, it won’t be hard for you to heave the yarn from your fingers down to the loop in the hook.

Size Does Matter When it Comes to Hooks and Yarns

You should not take for granted the skill of identifying the right hook and yarn to use in any crochet project.

Hooks are identified through different letters and numbers that correspond to certain sizes. In crocheting, the higher the number or letter of the hook, the thicker the hook is. As for yarns, their varieties are identified through names.

Resizing the Crochet Project Through the Pattern

To reduce the size of a project, it is as simple as deducting some stitches.. One can skip a stitch in a row and continue with the next to reduce the size of the project. To enlarge a project, it is as easy as inserting more stitches in a row. One can easily join two stitches of the same row together.. This will make one produce a solo stitch on the next row prior to it.

Reading a Pattern Like a Book

One thing that can complicate the activities of crocheting is the abbreviations on a pattern. The use of memory and logic can help a lot in surmounting this little crocheting obstacle. Being able to memorize these abbreviations can enhance the pace and efficiency of your crocheting project.

1. Crochet patterns and instructions are worked usually in rounds or rows. It will be indicated on the pattern if you are doing or working in rounds, rows or mixture of both.

2. Crochet patterns and instructions are generally ranked according to difficulty level such as advanced, intermediate, easy or beginner. Choose a pattern with a difficulty level that best suit your abilities. Then you can increase the level of difficulty as your skill advances.

3. Count the stitches that you have made as you go on with your work to monitor the stitches needed on each round or row as required by the pattern.

4. Verify your gauge by crocheting a sample of about 4 X 4 inches in the pattern. When your gauge results into a larger size than what is on the pattern, then use a smaller hook; when your gauge is smaller, then use a larger hook.

When it’s time for you to actually undertake a crochet project, be sure you follow the instructions and make your patience a bit sturdier than before. Prepare your devices beforehand to ensure the smooth flow of your crocheting endeavor.

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 http://www.crochetmadesimple.com

Learn Crochet Stitches

Picking up and Learning Crochet Stitches -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!

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 http://www.crochetmadesimple.com

Crochet Stitches Instructions

If crochet instructions look like Greek to you, here is some help so you can understand those stitches.

Understanding Crochet Instructions - 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.

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.

Crocheting a Scarf

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.

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 http://www.crochetmadesimple.com

Crochet Thread

Crochet Thread: Choosing the Best Kind - Today, there are countless types of crochet thread. The permutations are endless, and each type brings a new and interesting variation. So wide is the choice that it has become quite difficult to decide which is likely to be the best fabric for a particular purpose as many people who are into crochet making probably have no idea what many of these threads are made from.

As a beginner, it’s hard to tell from the appearance or the texture of the material. Here are some tips that will assist you in identifying the best kind of thread for your project:

1. Determine the most appropriate kind of material for the project - One of the most popular is cotton. The reason behind this is that cotton is very durable and easy to wash. On the other hand, synthetic crochet threads are nice to look at because of its luster, but they are very difficult to wash, so using this kind of thread would be limited.

2. Know the different types of crochet thread - In crocheting, there are five major types of thread. These are the worsted weight, baby or the fingering type, bulky, sport, and chunky. Each classification has its own unique “weight” or thickness. Among the five types, fingering has the finest weight. If ever you get to notice the word “ply” in the yarn label, this refers to the amount of the strands that were entwined together to materialize the yarn.

3. Always start with a “beginner’s thread” when you are starting out - It is always better to start with a bigger thread size when you are just starting to crochet. Usually, the bigger the size of the thread, the better. As you advanced to the next level, try to use some of the finer types. This will enhance your skill.

4. Know the ideal thread - If you are already on that level where you have made some crochet patterns, it is now time for you to try the advanced level. Here, the ideal thread that you must use are those that have finer strands when it comes to thickness. Using this type of thread will give your work an impression of a refined finished product because of its feebleness.

5. Always have an extra ball of thread or yarn - When buying thread, it is always important to have an extra ball of thread as you would not want to come to an end before you can even your work. This is especially applicable to the colored yarns. The point here is that colored threads may differ if not bought at the same time. It must be acquired on the same “dye-lot.” Slight difference in color can really ruin your work. When using the white-colored thread, it does not pose so many problems because you can always start with it anytime.

6. Never go for the cheap threads - In crochet, getting a cheaper quality thread may only ruin the total appearance of your crochet work. Hence, it would be better to choose the best quality of thread to ensure the quality of your work. It is as simple as that.

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 http://www.crochetmadesimple.com

Crochet Stitches Instructions

If crochet instructions look like Greek to you, here is some help so you can understand those stitches.

Understanding Crochet Instructions - 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.

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 http://www.crochetmadesimple.com

How to crochet for babies

How to Read and Understand Free Crochet Patterns for Babies - 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.

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 http://www.crochetmadesimple.com

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