Old English Creations

Crochet Your Calm and Create with Joy

 

Crocheting on the Go

Making Space for Crochet

Special Places

I have a cherished spot in my home that’s dedicated to my crocheting. It’s where I spend a lot of my creative time. At any given moment, you’ll find me working on at least two crochet projects. One of them is usually a substantial undertaking, like a cozy blanket or an elegant shawl. The other is a smaller piece, often composed of charming granny squares.

Large and Small Projects

The larger project tends to stay put at home. It becomes a part of the decor, blending into the cozy atmosphere. On the other hand, the smaller crochet project is portable, which is a blessing. I can take it with me wherever I go, and it’s become my trusty companion during moments of waiting.

 

Waiting Rooms

Whether it’s in a doctor’s waiting room, a dentist’s office, or sitting in the car while waiting for the kids to finish school, my crochet work is a constant presence. I’ve even brought my small crochet piece to coffee mornings and craft group meetings. It’s amazing how a few stitches can make those moments more serene and enjoyable.

 

Stash in Drawers

There was one house we lived in where I had a special drawer in the kitchen exclusively for my yarn and squares. It was a convenient setup. While waiting for the spaghetti to boil or dinner to cook, I’d pull out my crochet project and make some progress. It’s incredible how those few moments of crafting can transform mundane kitchen time into a delightful creative escape.

 

Kitchen Crochet

I must admit that my passion for crochet doesn’t stop even during everyday chores. You might find me with a ball of yarn peeking out from my apron pocket while I prepare dinner. It’s almost as if my crochet is a constant companion, adding a touch of artistry to the everyday tasks. Even when I’m on the phone, I’ve been known to keep my hands busy with my beloved crochet work. It’s not just a hobby; it’s a way of life.

Multitasking

It’s moments like these, when I’m multitasking and weaving my art into the fabric of my daily routine, that I realize the true beauty of crochet. It’s not just about creating beautiful pieces; it’s about infusing creativity into every corner of my life. Crocheting is my meditative art, my sanctuary of colors, and my constant companion. It brings a sense of calm and joy that’s hard to describe.

Reflection

So, as I reflect on my crocheting journey, I can’t help but smile. It’s not just about the finished projects; it’s about the process, the moments of waiting, and the everyday life where my love for colors and art shines through. Crochet is a part of me, and my special place at home is a testament to the love and dedication I have for this wonderful craft.

 

Author Bio

Alison Heathcote, a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger, combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post and crochet is your thing, you may like some other crochet articles from our blog.

B&G: Blankies and Grannies

B&G: Blankies and Grannies

Author: Alison  -   Updated: March 2025 B&G: Blankies and Grannies The Joy of Crochet B&G? B&G is like the fun code I use for the main things which I create in crochet. Don't get me wrong, I can do all types of crocheting, but when it comes down to it, my...

Triangle Shawl Crochet Design

Triangle Shawl Crochet Design

Shawl and Wrap Shapes Wraps are rectangles and shawls are triangles. This is the general consensus. You can get semi-circle wraps as well. But in this post I'm discussing the structure of crocheted triangles.   Triangles A triangle has three sides and three...

The 3 Types of Crocheter

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Selecting Colours for Soft Home Furnishings

Soft Furnishings Colors

Soft Furnishings

Soft furnishings are cushions, afghans, throws, rugs, exposed tapestries and things like that. At a stretch you can add table cloths, place mats and napkins in fact all table wear (napery). Furthermore you can consider beautiful bed sheets, embroidered pillowcases and lacy trimmed lampshades as soft furnishings and in the bathroom, all the mats and towels with trims can be seen as soft furnishings. Crochet is very good for all soft furnishing items for your home. either as the main component or as a trim.

 

50 Shades of Beige

Using bright colours on soft furnishing like afghans, blankets and cushions should be done with care. This is why neutrals and beige are popular home furnishing colours. Think IKEA and 50 shades of beige. You want your home to be relaxing and not jangly all the time. Managing your style and lifestyle is about managing color

Selecting Colours for Soft Furnishings

Neutrals are best and white, cream, taupe, beige, grey and brown always look good. Although you can make a statement cushion in red to add a pop of colour to a room, the best rooms are decorated in soft neutrals like dove grey, soft blues, pale pinks and light greens. 

Do not use primary or secondary colours for your soft furnishings. Stay away from orange, purple and turquoise. Instead use soft heather, sea foam and light apricots. Soft hues work best and will be attractive to many people.

If you make soft furnishing to sell in your store or at craft fairs you are likely to sell more if the colour is appealing. Consider your colour choices and enjoy crafting.

Alison-headshot

Author Bio

Alison is a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger. She combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

Read more about Alison’s crochet journey.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post and crochet is your thing, you may like some other crochet articles from our blog.

Crocheting on the Go

Crocheting on the Go

Making Space for Crochet Special Places I have a cherished spot in my home that's dedicated to my crocheting. It's where I spend a lot of my creative time. At any given moment, you'll find me working on at least two crochet projects. One of them is usually a...

Crochet Basics

Crochet Basics

Author: Alison  -   Updated: November 2024 Crochet Basics Getting Started About Crochet Crochet is a vast subject. and you really need to know a few of the basics before you can really get into it. This post is just to go over a few of the basic points and in crochet...

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Using Color in Crochet

Author: Alison  –   Updated: February 2025

Choosing Colors for Crochet Projects

Color Decisions

Align

When crocheting physical items such as hats, bags, cardigans and blankets, selecting the right yarn type is important, but equally crucial is choosing the perfect color. The colors you use in your crochet work can influence how the item is perceived, who will be drawn to it and even how well it sells if you plan to market your handmade goods.

The Importance of Color Appeal

Color selection is more than just personal preference, it affects mood, perception and desirability. While you have the creative freedom to use any color you like, certain color palettes naturally resonate with different age groups and demographics.

For example, if you were crocheting a baby blanket, a black-and-purple combination might seem out of place for most parents. While some modern parents embrace unconventional baby colors, traditionally, colors associated with infancy tend to be soft, pastel and comforting.

If you plan to sell your crochet creations, understanding color psychology and age-based color preferences can help you make informed choices that attract your target customers.

Color Preferences

Age Based

People’s relationship with color evolves over time. From infancy to old age, color preferences shift based on emotional development, personal experiences and societal influences. Below is a breakdown of how color preferences change through different life stages.

Newborns (0–12 months)

Newborns are often dressed in white, symbolizing purity and innocence. However, traditional gender-based color cues still play a role, soft pinks for girls and baby blues for boys. These gentle hues create a sense of calm and safety, which is why they are commonly used in baby clothing, blankets and nursery décor.

We used to own a baby shop and have some more ideas on color for babies.

Toddlers and Infants (1–3 years)

As babies become more active and begin exploring their environment, pastel shades remain a dominant choice. Soft yellows, mint greens, lavender and peach are popular because they maintain a sense of gentleness while adding a touch of playfulness. Pastel colors in toddler clothing and accessories signal that the child is still young, dependent on caregivers and in need of gentle handling.

Primary School Age (4–11 years)

At this stage, children are full of energy, curiosity and creativity. Their color preferences shift to bold primary and secondary colors:

  • Primary colors: Red, blue, yellow
  • Secondary colors: Green, purple, orange

Bright, saturated colors reflect the playful, adventurous nature of childhood. These hues are commonly found in toys, backpacks and kids’ clothing, emphasizing fun and liveliness.

Tweens (10–12 years)

As children enter their pre-teen years, their color choices begin to mature. Girls gravitate toward magenta, purple and deep pinks, which build upon the pastel pinks they favored as younger children. Boys start favoring blue, black and grey, signaling a shift toward a more subdued, grown-up palette. This transition is a steppingstone toward teenage color preferences, reflecting the subtle emotional and social changes tweens experience.

Teenagers (13–18 years)

Teenage color choices often lean toward more muted and moody tones. Boys and girls both adopt denim blues, dusky pinks, khaki and charcoal greys. Bright colors from childhood are toned down by adding a hint of black, creating dusky, deeper hues that reflect a shift toward maturity. Teenagers often go through phases of self-expression and their clothing colors reflect their evolving moods, independence and emerging identities. This stage marks a departure from the bright and carefree childhood palette.

Adults (19+ years)

By adulthood, color choices become more intentional and tied to lifestyle, career and personality. Adults often choose:

  • Jewel tones: Teal, maroon, emerald green, sapphire blue, these colors signal sophistication and confidence.
  • Neutral classics: Black, brown, grey, navy, white, neutral colors convey professionalism, maturity and authority.

Adults use color strategically in their wardrobes and home décor. Darker colors, especially black, suggest power and competence, while jewel tones add richness and depth to personal style.

Interestingly, color choices in adulthood also reflect status and societal expectations. A person wearing a well-tailored black coat and navy trousers is perceived differently than someone in a bright yellow outfit, simply due to the associations with those colors.

Older Adults and Seniors (60+ years)

In later life, color preferences often return to soft, pastel shades such as cream, pale blue, lavender and soft pink. These colors create a sense of calm and approachability. Lighter tones suggest warmth and gentleness, signaling a shift away from competition and status toward comfort and serenity. This return to pastels mirrors the colors worn in early childhood, marking a full-circle journey in color preference.

Understanding Color Psychology in Crochet

When crocheting for different age groups, consider how colors influence emotions and perceptions:

 

  • Bright colors (red, yellow, orange) = Energy, excitement and playfulness
  • Cool colors (blue, green, teal) = Calm, relaxation and trust
  • Dark colors (black, deep purple, navy) = Sophistication, authority and mystery
  • Pastels (soft pink, lavender, pale blue) = Gentleness, warmth and non-confrontation

 

If you are crocheting for personal use, you have complete freedom in choosing colors that make you happy. However, if you plan to sell your crochet work, selecting colors that align with your audience’s preferences can make your products more appealing and marketable.

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Alison-headshot

Author Bio

Alison is a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger. She combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

Read more about Alison’s crochet journey.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post and crochet is your thing, you may like some other crochet articles from our blog.

Crochet Basics

Crochet Basics

Author: Alison  -   Updated: November 2024 Crochet Basics Getting Started About Crochet Crochet is a vast subject. and you really need to know a few of the basics before you can really get into it. This post is just to go over a few of the basic points and in crochet...

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The Meaning of Colour

Colours Have Meaning

You can use colour to boost your mood.

Wear the colour you like or choose a colour whose meaning is how you want your day to go.

imagesPastel, primary, jewel or darks?

Pastels (lemon, lavender, mint green, baby pink and baby blue) are calming, soothing and non-confrontational. Pastels look good on babies and the elderly.

Primaries (red, yellow and blue) all stimulate the brain but in different ways.

Jewel colours (purple, teal, amber and ruby) are grown up and indicate confidence, up beat and positive vibes.

Dark colours suggest control and power. They can imply seriousness and subdued danger.

Red

Red is the colour of challenge, courage and sex. It says “Look at me” and that danger is near.

Red is stimulating and that is why it is the colour favoured in restaurants and good for your dining room because it stimulates conversation.

Orange

Orange is rude. It is a colour that suggests caution and be careful. If you wear orange you are sending the message that you are unpredictable and others should watch out. But that you are fun loving and unique.

Yellow

Yellow is the colour of sunshine and creativity it is a difficult colour to wear near your face as it reflects a yellow glow that is not always flattering.

Yellow’s message is one of inspiration and lateral thinking. Wearing yellow aids creative solutions to problems. It is a good color to wear when you want some fresh ideas to pop into your head.

Green

Green is the colour for peace and tranquility. It should be worn to calm and rejuvenate your psyche.

Mint green is calming but chartreuse suggests some spiky ideas running through your head.

Blue

Blue in its purest sense is what used to be called French blue and it is like a sapphire blue.

This is a strong color and the wearer is confident and fair. The darker the blue the stronger the person.

Pale blue is for young children or men’s formal shirts which are covered by grey or charcoal suits.

Indigo

Indigo is a colour for getting things done it works well for men and women. It is confident and casual at the same time. Think dark denim jeans which are both smart and casual.

Violet

Violet is the colour of originality. If you wear violet you are stating that you are your own man or woman and will do your own thing in life. Violet in home furnishing can be wild flowers and heathery creamy violets work well.

White

White looks good on just about anyone. A sharp white blouse is a wardrobe staple. White next to your face in blouses or shirts is flattering to all complexions.

Black

Black is a serious city color. Most people can wear black and be taken seriously. Black pants are a woman’s wardrobe staple.

Brown

Brown is a color to wear when you are feeling down and want to hide from life. It is a colour for doing nothing in. It indicates you may be forlorn or pining for days gone by. It can be a sign of depression and if you wear brown it will make you feel browned off and life weary.

Grey

Grey is a colour that wants to blend into the background. It is a non confrontational colour and suggests the wearer is passive and will conform to the will of others. It is a colour that wants peace and quiet.


You may also like:

  • Colour magic
  • Selecting colour for soft home furnishings

More Color Articles

Here are a few more articles about color and how to best use it in your life.

Alison-headshot

Author Bio

Alison is a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger. She combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

Read more about Alison’s crochet journey.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post and crochet is your thing, you may like some other crochet articles from our blog.

Crochet Basics

Crochet Basics

Author: Alison  -   Updated: November 2024 Crochet Basics Getting Started About Crochet Crochet is a vast subject. and you really need to know a few of the basics before you can really get into it. This post is just to go over a few of the basic points and in crochet...

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Bundle of Joy – The Baby Shop

Baby Shop

Many years ago my husband and I owned a baby shop called “Bundle of Joy”. We sold prams, buggies, bottles, cots, baby clothes, blankets and a million other goodies that a baby needs. As I was a crocheter I started to create baby blankets to sell in the store. They did well.

I made crochet baby blankies in white, pink and blue. But never pink and blue together in one blanket. I made granny squared ones and row on row ones. it was a perfect time of running a business and crocheting at the same time.

I then tried baby yellow and baby green blankets. But they never sold. I could only sell pink or blue blankets. Our shop attracted customers who were grannies, aunts and mothers of new babies. Over time we got to know the clientele and they would pop in to say “hello” when the went for their groceries at the supermarket in the mall.

During our time at the baby store we were lucky enough to welcome our own bundle of joy and our daughter was born.

FullSizeRender 4

 

So we had a real live baby prop in the store and this too attracted customers. They would come into our shop and ask, “Do you only have pink or blue blankets?” To which I responded, “How about this lovely baby mint green or pale lemon?” Everyone then said, “Oh, I’ll take the pink for my new daughter,” or, “I’ll take the blue because my baby is a boy.”

So even though we could offer a selection of colors, the customers only ever bought the two traditional colours of baby pink and baby blue blankets. Moms want to clearly define the sex of their baby. If anyone sees a pink or blue blanket in a buggy or pram it is immediately clear that the child is a boy or girl.

FullSizeRender 5

 

In the three years we had the shops we never sold a yellow or a green blanket but, by having them as a selection to offer our customers, the awkward colored yellow and green blankets helped us sell the pink and blue ones, by them being offered as a choice to our customers.

You can read more on the meaning of coloursselecting colours for your crochet work and soft furnishings.

Alison-headshot

Author Bio

Alison is a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger. She combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

Read more about Alison’s crochet journey.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post and crochet is your thing, you may like some other crochet articles from our blog.

Crocheting on the Go

Crocheting on the Go

Making Space for Crochet Special Places I have a cherished spot in my home that's dedicated to my crocheting. It's where I spend a lot of my creative time. At any given moment, you'll find me working on at least two crochet projects. One of them is usually a...

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Micro Business Ideas that You can Start Today

Micro Business Ideas

Here are some ideas for your micro business

Many people share the dream to have their own little business which will make a bit of money and through the actual art or craft involved will satisfy their creative urges and needs.

micro business that you run from your home, or on the go from your virtual office, will typically fall into one of five main categories:

  1. Craft – Crochet, knit, sew, bake, art
  2. Writing and editing
  3. New age skills
  4. Personal services
  5. Selling digital products

You may do more than one activity and some will appeal to you straight away.

You have to be realistic. Clearly if you are not a hairdresser you can’t cut hair as a micro business. But if you can crochet then you can make crochet your micro business.

 


Craft and Handiwork

If you can do any of the crafts in the list below then you can sell your items at flea markets and wholesale to shops.

  • Knitter
  • Crocheter
  • Artist – painter
  • Wood worker – bird houses
  • Cookie baker
  • Sandwich maker
  • Dressmaker
  • Artist – fibre
  • Jewelry maker
  • Candle maker
  • Candlestick maker

Writing and Editing

If you can write compelling copy you could turn your hand (or your pen) to one or two activities and projects on this list.

  • Write feature articles
  • Write patterns – knit and crochet
  • Write stories and memoir
  • Write “how to” articles
  • Write recipes
  • Travel writer
  • Horoscope writer
  • Cooking writer
  • Restaurant critic
  • Stringer
  • Novelist
  • Author
  • Poet
  • Lyricist
  • Local ad newsletter (selling ad space in the coffee news)

New age services in your home

If you have skills in the New Age professions as listed here you could easily start a micro business or practice in one of them.

  • Astrologer
  • Palmist
  • Tarot reader
  • Reiki master
  • Clairvoyant
  • Crystal ball reader
  • Tea leaf reader
  • Runes reader
  • Numerologist

Personal services

This list is slightly more skilled and maybe you did go to hairdresser school years ago and if so you can dust off your scissors and start your micro business right now.

  • Hairdresser
  • Dressmaker
  • Manicurist
  • Makeup artist
  • Bookkeeper
  • Personal trainer
  • Garden lady

Sell Digital Items

Selling digital downloads online does need you to have some skills in computers and a bit of writing but is can be done. Make sure you write about a topic that interests you and your passion for the subject will come through the words.

  • Worksheets “how-to” ideas
  • Ebooks
  • Webinars
  • Videos classes on YouTube
  • Copy writing and editing services
  • Resume writing
  • Form filling in for non English speakers
  • Blogger – Adwords
  • Images – info graphics

Not all will appeal to everyone. If you can be quite clear on what you can do and what you can’t do then that makes the choice easier.

Know your limitations

Most people can fry an egg but that doesn’t mean you can be the cookie baker for a vegetarian deli down the street.

It can be seductive to fall into the trap of doing something that you are nearly good at (like baking). If you are not passionate about the thing then dismiss it as an option for you.

If your sister-in-law knows a dahlia from a dandelion and can weed gardens that doesn’t mean you can too.

Back to your notebook. Draw three columns titled, “Yes I can”, “No I can’t” and “Maybe I could.”

Take the list above and write five options in each column.

This will make your choices clearer.

 

Alison-headshot

Author Bio

Alison is a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger. She combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

Read more about Alison’s crochet journey.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post and crochet is your thing, you may like some other crochet articles from our blog.

Crocheting on the Go

Crocheting on the Go

Making Space for Crochet Special Places I have a cherished spot in my home that's dedicated to my crocheting. It's where I spend a lot of my creative time. At any given moment, you'll find me working on at least two crochet projects. One of them is usually a...

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Crochet Techniques – Chain-less Cast-On Method

Chainless Cast On

Base Chain Foundation

Typically the pattern will call for a chain of say, 40 or 100 chains, and the first row is built on the base chain.

In the chain-less cast-on method there is no chain.

 

I have also heard of this being called the chain less starting (crochet stitch) method CShdc, CSdc etc. which I may incorporate soon if that is the general term.

  

The chain-less cast on technique is used without a base chain so it provides some give in the item as a base chain can pull if not loose enough. Any tightness is only noticeable when you have worked up more of the item.

The first row is actually the base row and indicated as Row 1: on all patterns.

 

IMG_2061

Row 1: 3 ch,IMG_2062

yarn over, insert hook in first ch (but both loops),

pull through (3 loops on hook),

IMG_2063

yarn over, insert hook into bottom stitch two “V” and pull through (3 loops on hook),

IMG_2072

make 1 dc as normal inserting hook into both loops of previous loop pulled through.

IMG_2069 (1)IMG_2065

Each new double crochet is started in the one loop pulled through from the two on the base.

 IMG_2071

Continue for as many double crochets as required.

Where to Use the Chain-less Cast-on

This is great for waistbands on skirts and shorts. It also goes well for bag handles and straps for summer tops.

I don’t use it all the time but it does result in a really nice edge that has give and does not pull. In a way it is forgiving and I like that.

Author Bio

Alison Heathcote is a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger. She combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

Read more about Alison’s crochet journey.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post and crochet is your thing, you may like some other crochet articles from our blog.

Crochet Basics

Crochet Basics

Author: Alison  -   Updated: November 2024 Crochet Basics Getting Started About Crochet Crochet is a vast subject. and you really need to know a few of the basics before you can really get into it. This post is just to go over a few of the basic points and in crochet...

Crochet Patterns

Crochet Patterns

Author: Alison Heathcote   -   Published:  January 2024 About Our Original Crochet Patterns Finding a crochet pattern can be quite overwhelming with the multitude of options available. However, the real challenge lies in discovering patterns that not only meet your...

B&G: Blankies and Grannies

B&G: Blankies and Grannies

Author: Alison  -   Updated: March 2025 B&G: Blankies and Grannies The Joy of Crochet B&G? B&G is like the fun code I use for the main things which I create in crochet. Don't get me wrong, I can do all types of crocheting, but when it comes down to it, my...

Types of Crochet

 Entrelac crochet

Entrelac crochet is a method of working on the side of previously crocheted pieces. The rows go in different directions and not just straight up. It creates an interesting piece and is strong. This method is usually done with color as the defining result.

Fair Isle crochet

Fair isle crochet is similar to Fair Isle knitting. Each row is worked with two colors and they change throughout the row to make designs in color. Each row has two different colors and the colors change every few rows.

For example:

Row 1: Red and blue

Row 2: Red and green

Row 3: Green and blue

But because each row only has two colors that sets the thickness of the finished item. The Fair Isles are in Scotland and women shepherdesses would tend their flocks of sheep with crochet hooks and balls of wool in their pockets. They would walk the highlands on foot working their crochet as they went.

Filet crochet

Filet crochet is a French type of crochet created in squares. The finished piece looks like a grid with open and closed spaces. The combination of open and closed results in flat pictures of roses or swans or whatever.

Filet designs were originally used to make lace curtains to cover cottage windows. These days filet crochet is used for table cloths, place mats and can be hung as art.

Filet crochet can be done in the round and resultss in beautifully intricate designs.

Tapestry crochet

Tapestry crochet is used to make thick baskets and rugs. It is a sturdy technique and the items are very firm.

You use several colored threads at once, working with one color and carrying the rest along the top of the row being worked. This makes each row very thick.

Color is changed on a stitch by stitch basis. Bowls are a good example of tapestry crochet.

Tunisian crochet

Tunisian crochet is also referred to as afghan crochet. For Tunisian crochet you use a special hook (called a Tunisian crochet hook), which typically has a crochet hook at one end and is as long as a knitting needle and has a knitting needle stop end at the other. So really it is like a knitting needle but with a hook and not a point.

Below are my two favourite Tunisian crochet hooks, (in my size 5mm as usual), and these have hooks at both ends opening up the possibilities for advanced Tunisan crochet work.

IMG_2052Tunisian crochet hooks come in all the same sizes as regular crochet hooks. With Tunisian crochet you carry many stitches at once on forward rows and hook them off on the backward rows.

Tunisian crochet makes a very thick fabric and is normally used for blankets, cushions, bags and soft furnishings.

Tunisian crochet is like a combination of crochet and knitting all in one. It is an advanced technique. Tunisian crochet can be combined with entrecôte crochet.


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Crochet Basics

Crochet Basics

Author: Alison  -   Updated: November 2024 Crochet Basics Getting Started About Crochet Crochet is a vast subject. and you really need to know a few of the basics before you can really get into it. This post is just to go over a few of the basic points and in crochet...

B&G: Blankies and Grannies

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Tension and Gauge Swatches

Tension and Gauge Swatches

Make your garment the same size as the pattern intended

Gauge swatches are a fundamental tool in the world of crochet and knitting.

They typically measure 4 inches or 10 centimeters square, and their purpose is to ensure that your project turns out just right.

 

New Project New Swatch

When you embark on a new project, the pattern provides guidelines, specifying the ideal hook size and yarn to use.

However, in the real world of crafting, we often find ourselves reaching for the yarn that’s readily available, and it may not match the pattern’s recommendations.

This seemingly small deviation can lead to a project that turns out either too large or too small compared to what the pattern intended.

This is where the importance of making a gauge swatch, or as some call it, a tension square, becomes evident.

A gauge swatch is your safeguard against potential mishaps in your crafting journey.

How To Create a Guage Swatch

To create a gauge swatch, you select the yarn you intend to use and pair it with the hook you plan to work with.

Then, you crochet a small square that adheres to the pattern’s specifications for the gauge.

This usually involves making a square that’s 4 inches by 4 inches or 10 centimeters by 10 centimeters.

 

Too Big or Too Small

  • If the swatch is too small then you should use a larger hook.
  • If the swatch is too big then you should use a smaller hook.

The idea is to use the hook that results in the same measurements as the original pattern.

Tension

The purpose of this little square is to test your tension, which is how tightly or loosely you crochet. Everyone’s tension can vary slightly, and it can even change from project to project.

By creating a gauge swatch, you can see if your tension matches the pattern’s requirements.

If your square turns out too large, it indicates that you are crocheting too loosely.

Conversely, if it’s too small, you’re crocheting too tightly.

The beauty of the gauge swatch is that it allows you to make adjustments before you dive into the main project.

If your swatch doesn’t meet the pattern’s gauge, you can experiment with different hook sizes until you achieve the correct tension.

This small but essential step can save you hours of work and prevent the disappointment of ending up with a project that doesn’t fit or look as intended.

 

When to Do a Gauge Swatch

Size and tension matters more in garments that have to fit like clothes rather than blankets or throws which are still ok if they are a little bigger or smaller.

When you start a new pattern always do a test swatch  to make sure you will have the correct size at the end.

A Practice Run

So, in the world of crochet, the gauge swatch is like a practice run, a test drive, ensuring that your creativity aligns with the pattern’s specifications.

It’s a valuable tool that empowers you to take control of your crafting and achieve the desired results.

Remember, while the initial excitement of starting a new project can be irresistible, taking the time to create a gauge swatch is a wise and caring step that ensures your crafting journey is smooth and successful.

 

Author Bio

Alison Heathcote, a passionate crochet enthusiast and dedicated business blogger, combines her love for crafting and entrepreneurship to inspire and connect with others.

With a knack for transforming yarn into beautiful creations and a flair for sharing valuable insights about running a successful crochet business, Alison embodies the perfect blend of creativity and practicality.

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How to Read a Crochet Diagram

Features of a crochet diagram pattern

In general

Reading a written crochet pattern assumes many things.

Such as:

  • That you can read English
  • That you use either UK or USA stitch names
  • That the pattern is written correctly
  • That the pattern instructions are clear

Let’s look at each one by itself.

It assumes that – you speak English

I speak English as probably you do to as you are reading this. But I also like to use patterns from other countries.

I think the Japanese crochet diagrams are the best. They are clear and precise and I don’t have to read Japanese to use the patterns.

Likewise, if I design a crochet garment and I only write the pattern in English words, then other world wide crocheters can’t read my work.

I want my designs to be used by all crocheters and that is why I write the pattern in English and draw the crochet stitch diagram to go with it.

Almost every pattern on my site and my books are both written and have a diagram.

It assumes that – you know the difference between a UK or USA stitch

The difference between UK and USA crochet stitches and why the diagram is clear.

The UK double crochet and treble crochet are the same as the USA single crochet and double crochet.

The actual stitch is the same but the name of the stitch is different.

Double Crochet (USA) is the same as Treble Crochet (UK)

  • Yarn over hook (two loops on hook)
  • Insert hook into stitch below.
  • Yarn over hook, and pull through stitch below (three loops on hook)
  • Yarn over hook, pull through two loops (two loops remain on hook).
  • And then, yarn over hook, pull through two loops (two loops remain on hook).
  • Yarn over hook, pull through last two loops (one loop remains on hook).

It assumes that – the pattern is written correctly

In a written crochet pattern there are lines of code for the pattern rows. Such as:

RSF R1, yoh (rep5.) 3tr, 2ch 1FPst (rep. from * to * 8 times) turn.

Now in the above sentence (if it is a sentence), any error in the typing (a typo) will create an error in the pattern. And the crafter will not be able to complete the garment because she can’t read the pattern.

In a long pattern with motives, sections and finished borders there could be over 100 lines of pattern instruction. One line will create a problem and often there are two or three errors in a pattern.images-1

This makes the whole job a frustration and the crocheter may give up and (this is the worse part), tell others that your patterns are always incorrect and they should avoid them.

This is not good if you are in the business of selling patterns.

It assumes that – the instructions are clear

There comes a time in written crochet patterns when they will benefit from more explanation. This is achieved by expanding on the instructions and writing instructions in plain English.

We can all do with clarity at times. And crochet patters are no exception.

If a pattern is too hard to understand because of how it is written then it will not work. That pattern is no good.

Crochet diagrams symbols

Diagram symbols

In diagram a there is one symbol for every stitch.images

Chain

Slip stitch

Double crochet

Treble crochet

Each symbol is drawn separately.

Diagram rows

Each row is numbered.

Every row has an arrow indicating which way the row is worked. Either left to right, right to left or in the round.

Typically each Rosie drawn in a different color so you ca clearly see which row you are on. Here I use black and blue to separate the rows.

Benefits of crochet pattern diagrams

A picture is worth a thousand words. And this is true of crochet diagrams.

  • Uses left brain of visual imagery.
  • Designer can be non-native English speaker.
  • The diagram can be read by everyone on earth.
  • Clarity uses less space. One page for each project.
  • Can be printed bigger for older eyes.
  • Kids can use them.

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