Saturday, February 18, 2017

What You Need To Look For When Selecting Crochet Patterns

By Angela Reynolds


If you have always loved the idea of homemade items such as sweaters, hats, socks and blankets you may want to think about trying your hand at crocheting. Many people find that completing crochet patterns is much easier to do since only a single hook is needed. This can make it an easier skill to pick up than knitting, which uses two needles and which can be more difficult to figure out. If you are looking for patterns that you can make, here are some tips that can help increase your chance of success.

In the past, there were relatively limited numbers of places to find patterns. They were available in magazines and books and some simple patterns, like granny squares, were handed down from generation to generation. Now, they are also available online. Yarn companies are creating and distributing their own patterns and there are also entire online communities and websites devoted to these hobbies. The selection is great but choosing which option to go with can become that much more difficult.

There are many different places where you can find patterns. Online communities and websites will have many different options to choose from. You may be able to find free patterns that you can look at or download. Since patterns can be pricey if you purchase them from a store you may want to look for free ones, especially when you are just starting out.

You should always look for the difficulty rating on a pattern before deciding to try and complete it. You do not always need to stay within your comfort zone but if you are just starting out it could end up being frustrating to try and complete a project that is rated as "very hard" or "expert". If you do want to try a more complex pattern you might want to read ahead and try out any new stitches or techniques before starting the project itself.

If a particular pattern is online you may want to read reviews that users have left. There may be information about problem areas in a pattern or further explanation about how to complete specific areas. They may also be able to help you avoid specific pattern options that simply will not turn out even if the instructions are followed closely.

While good instructions are important you also need to make sure you are working with the right materials. Your pattern should include information about the size of crochet hook to use and the kind of yarn to use. It can end up causing problems and lead to frustration if you are not using the right tools or materials to work on your project.

Taking your time and slowing down is also a good idea especially if you are starting out and have not worked on a lot of different items in the past. Making sure you are counting your stitches carefully can help prevent having to tear out stitches and rework areas that you have already completed. This can be frustrating and time consuming.

As you become more skilled, you will quickly find out how relaxing it can be to crochet. Even a beginner should find it possible to start making various items that can be worn or used around the house. Then, as you master specific stitches, you can begin to explore a wider variety of different projects and expand your repertoire even more.




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