Saturday Skill: Learn to Crochet

A crocheted piece is the lovely manifestation of a thought, expressed through hand, heart, hook and yarn.

~Francine Toukou

The history of crochet is difficult to track down but appears to have been developed in the 16th century in the form of lace.  (Crochet Guild of America) 

 While the history may not be as old as knitting, embroidery or weaving, the skill of crochet is an honorable one to learn.  In fact, crochet helped alleviate the poverty in Ireland that happened during the potato famine.  Men, women and children in Irish crochet cooperatives crocheted beautiful lace to be sold to buyers abroad and brought much needed income to the country. (Crochet History)

If you already are skilled at knitting, you will find crocheting to be an easy craft to learn.  If you don't do any needlework yet, you will find crocheting easier to learn than knitting since you are only manipulating one hook to create your work of art.  

Crochet can be applied to sweaters, hats, mittens, scarves, socks, blankets and even the finest lace curtains.  The craft is highly versatile.  One of my favorite projects to make is the baby blanket.  The blanket pictured is always welcomed as a gift for a new baby.  The best part of the pictured blanket?  It can be made very quickly.  This one was made in six hours.

This blanket was adapted from this pattern:  Never Ending Granny Square and was just made to be baby sized and with baby colors. 

Crochet is easy to learn so either seek out a willing teacher or use the valuable tutorials you can find on the internet. (Like the ones at Yarnspirations)

By learning to crochet, you will increase your self-sustainability and have a relaxing skill to occupy your hands in the evenings. It is one of the skills I most value.  The tools are inexpensive and free patterns are easily accessible so what are you waiting for?  Start hooking! 

Peace be with you, 

Star Schipp

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