The Timeless Romance of Crochet

crochet

Crochet presents one of the most romantic fabrics that humankind has seen.  Being one of the more enduring hobbies and crafts of all time, the beauty of its products is timeless.  Crochet is a type of needlework or stitching craft that makes use of a hook and yarn/ thread.  It is often confused with knitting but the two are actually different and distinct from each other in spite of certain similarities.

History of Crochet

The word crochet was derived from the French word “croc” or more particularly its feminine form of “croche” which means hook.  The method involved in creating crocheted fabric is basically pulling loops through other loops through the use of the hook. Crocheting is considered an old craft.

Long before it became popular in Europe during the 19th century, crocheting or a semblance of it was believed to have been practiced in places like Iran, China, and South America.  Crochet patterns have been discovered in Swiss magazines from the year 1819 although earlier existence is not being discounted.  Crochet lace work was introduced as a  way of making money for impoverished Irish workers during the Great Irish Famine of 1845-1849. Crochet lace was very popular and has been produced in considerable quantity until the First World War.  The New Edwardian Era produced the most elaborate crocheted lace in history,  forever marking its place as one of the most beautiful creations produced by human hands.

The Materials

The hook is the main and only implement used in crocheting.  It comes in different sizes and materials including steel, plastic, aluminum, bamboo, and bone.  For a lacy effect, a hairpin loom may be used.  Depending on the project, some materials may be added to accessorize the crocheted item.

Yarn is the most commonly used although other threads may be used as well. The size of hook to be used will depend on the thickness and weight of the yarn or thread. Natural or synthetic dye can provide color accent.

Stitches and Patterns

Crochet has at least six basic stitches comprised of the chain stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, triple/treble crochet, and double treble crochet.  These are US terms and the same stitches can be known in other places such as UK in different names. The schematic symbols remain the same.

Crochet project usually follow a pattern thus it it important to learn how to read a crochet pattern.  Patterns provide instructions using basic stitch abbreviations and terms.  Knowing them or keeping a copy of them handy while working on a project will make following the pattern instructions a lot easier.

Crochet Charities

It is interesting to know that crocheted items play an important role in charity work.  The needy, homeless, and survivors of disasters are in constant need of donated crocheted items.  The most commonly required items include caps, afghans, scarves, mittens, and blankets, among others.  There are several charity organizations involved in the distribution of these items.  Cancer societies  require a regular supply of the so-called “chemo caps” specifically for children.

Crochet enthusiasts who wish to help in any way with regards to making and donating crochet items can contact their nearest charitable organization or crochet clubs/organizations for more information.  The neo-natal department of local hospitals can be the best place to donate crocheted baby items, for example.  Experienced crochet crafters say that crocheting is easily learned when desired.

My Say

The work that is given to every crocheted piece is very personal which is probably the reason why it appeals to human emotions and activities such as charity and giving.  There is something so special about handmade pieces knowing that they would not have been done without human hands. Crochet represents a hobby that does not only provide warmth but also classic beauty and timeless romance.