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Discovering Textures in Crochet

Discovering Textures in Crochet

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After learning the basic crochet stitches, I have adventured in practicing more  complicated stitches with unique texture.  You know me always looking for texture and dimension.

The first one I tried was the Mini Bean Stitch.  It took a bit of practice to get the tension right. I like the randomness of the the yarn in this stitch.  It is the same on the front and back.

The next one is the Elizabeth stitch named after the creators daughter.  Sorry about the light.  I took the photo in the only room that had some natural light. This also is the same on both sides.

I found the Suzette stitch very interesting.

The Uneven Berry Stitch has different sides.  One side dimensional and the other flatter. They also like to curl up.

The Lemon Peel Stitch is a nice tight stitch and the same on both sides. It’s actually a nice bright yellow color.

 

It was suggested with the Waist Coat /Center Single Crochet Stitch that variegated yarn be used.  But what I had on hand was a bit too variegated.  I also tried it with a plain color to see the difference.  A lot of Vs in there.

The Slant Stitch was fun.  The recommendation for this stitch was to use a neutral yarn.  But of course, I had to see it in a solid which I think is a bit nicer.

Each stitch has its own personality and texture.  I’m hard pressed to pick a favorite.  Also, each would be practical for different projects.  For example, the Slant Stitch would make an airy scarf.  The Lemon Peel or Waist coat would make a sturdier scarf, hat or pot holder.

Here are two bracelets I crocheted for my granddaughter Lisa in two sizes since I wasn’t sure of her wrist size.  The smaller one fit so now when she grows out of it she has another one. Yellow is her favorite color.

I’m quite fond of the Suzette and Mini Bean stitches just because of the interesting texture and dimension.  What’s your favorite?

Relearning to Crochet

Relearning to Crochet

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I’ve been trying to think of projects that weren’t labor intensive since I’m having back problems again.  My son and his family gave me a set of ergonomic crochet hooks for my birthday.  Then for some reason I started getting crochet posts in my Facebook news feed. I’ve been intrigued with some more complicated textures and dimensional stitches.  But I haven’t crocheted in years and figured I’d start with the basics.

I do have a book on crochet, but the Internet is loaded with tons of videos that keep calling me.

I’ve been practicing, but not have gotten my tension mojo just right.  So, bear with me. For these samples I used a medium weight (worsted) acrylic yarn I had on hand with a 5 mm, (UK 6, US H8 hook.)

Next to making the chain (ch) for a sample, the Single Crochet (sc) is one of most basic stitches.

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Next I tried the Double Crochet (dc).

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Then I made a sample with the Half Double Crochet (hdc) which I don’t remember ever seeing. A little more intricate and I liked the added texture.

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The Triple Crochet (tc) is more open and less dimensional.

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Then finally, the Double Triple Crochet (dtc.)  Very open and airy.

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While they aren’t perfect and I’m getting the tension a little more consistent with daily practice, I’m far from making a project.  I try a new stitch everyday to keep my hands on fiber and learn something new.  Which I’ve learned helps spark creativity when you learn a new skill.

Have you tried something new lately?