CROCHET

Crochet is a kind of needlework consisting of the interlocking of looped stitches formed with single thread and a
hooked needle. It is a process of creating fabric from yarn, thread, or other material strands. It has become one of the
preferred hobbies during leisure time dominantly by women, young and old, since you could produce an item within a
short period of time. But now, even men are engaging to perform such skills.

The word is derived from the French word "croche", meaning hook which has been used in the intricate process
of lacemaking. Crochet differs from knitting in a way that only one stitch is active at one time, and a single crochet hook
is used instead of two knitting needles.

No one really knows the origin of crochet. However, it is widely known that the fine crochet was worked on by
nuns in the 16th century in Europe, Ireland. What do you think is the first crocheted product ever produced? Right! It is
the laced mats pioneered by the Irish and universally known as Irish crochet. At that time, nuns taught it to their pupils
and the proceeds derived from the sales of crocheted articles helped alleviate poverty of the Irish people. Crochet
articles give a lacy effect. They are also durable and the designs can be easily created by combining a variety of yarn with
different colors and crochet stitches. At present, there are several crocheted articles available in the market such as
shawls, blouses, and sweaters. Other interesting products are table runners, doilies and curtains, bags and decorative
edgings for handkerchiefs.

TOOLS AND MATERIALS

Before performing crochet, it is necessary to check all the materials and tools to to save time and energy. Do not forget
that without them, you cannot produce a crocheted article and it will not also be beneficial if the user doesn’t know how
to use it properly

1. Crochet hooks – are made either by wood, bone, plastic, steel and aluminum.

TYPES OF CROCHET HOOKS:

A. Steel crochet hooks are used for cotton threads and are about five (5)
inches long with sizes from 00 as the largest and 14 as the smallest.

B. Bone hooks are very rare now and being replaced by plastic and
aluminum hooks and are used for heavier types of crocheting like pot
holders, sweater and shawls. They
are available at six inches long.

C. Afghan hooks have the same length as knitting pins but have hooks at one
end. They are made up of plastic or aluminum, 9 to 10 inches long. These
are used for Afghan stitch only.

D. Extra large hooks made up of steel or plastic are used especially in rug making and jiffy crochet.

It is very important to use the correct size of hook every time you crochet. The size of hook can greatly influence the
appearance of the finished product in the same manner as can the weight and type of yarn used.

2. Crochet thread or yarn – comes in variety of natural or man-made fibers. Each has its own characteristics and
they differ from one another in tactile, tenacity, and weight.

Kinds:

A. Cotton thread has a very smooth, silky finish and usually used for crocheting.
Sometimes it has matte appearance like some bedspread cottons.

B. Linen thread – ideal for summer blouse.

D. Wool yarn – is suitable for blankets, baby garments, sweater and other fashion items.