Hooked on crochet
One of my favourite hobbies and pastimes, is crocheting. So let me share a little bit of how I got into this hobby, and how by simply trying to learn a knew skill I got hooked on crochet (pun intended).
I try to remember what is was that made me go on and persevere in this particular craft. I think the closest I can come up to an answer is that you create something using only a hook and thread, and a few basic loops and weaves to create something useful and tangible from almost nothing. The most satisfying project being one where you make a garment, tailored to your specific measurements, that only fits your body and therefore you create a unique piece that no one else possesses.
It’s also so very relaxing!
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when I was first interested to pick up a thread and hook, because I asked both my grandmothers to teach me. Lets say their teaching styles didn’t suit me. They both would show me, but hook the loops so fast that it was overwhelming. Therefore my learning was postponed for a few years. Until that is, when my aunt went past a window shop where there was a toy amigurami cat on display, and she decided that he (the cat was dressed as a pirate) looked so cute she could do it herself. I watched her process and that got me interested to learn to crochet all over again. So I should really thank my aunt for inspiring me.
This time around I used a booklet to teach myself at my own pace. There were many mistakes and blunders, but I go there in the end. My skill has grown to the point that I can create my own patterns for others to practice and enjoy. Although I’m still a newbie at that, it is quite rewarding to create a pattern that others may use and enjoy.
Here is an example of a comparison between my very first square that I have ever done and one a made recently. This one is called a Venetian square and you can guess why. It is very much reminiscent of the Renascence.
My love for doilies is very simple. Depending on the size and the time that you have, you can complete a doily in 1-2 days. They are ornate, delicate and make great gifts. The lace you create is stunning by repeating a pattern in the round, with each row expanding so that you get a nice and round circle. Of course you can alter the amount of stitches closer to the edge, then grab a bowl, place it upside down, put some cling film and apply a generous amount of PV mixed with water. I do a about a 50:50 ratio. For added strength add a teaspoon or two of powder starch (any will do). Once dry, when you remove the doily from the bowl it should keep it’s shape so that you can use it for storing. I used this technique to create my work of art for Iscream Factory, a scoop of ice cream in a cone lamp. As an ambient light it casts beautiful shadows.
I place my doilies about the house in a subtle way. So they decorate as well as protect the surface underneath, but not giving that old vibe. White cotton gives a crisp finish making the doily look more new rather than aged.
An ice cream cone for the Iscream Factory 2015, first exhibited at the Habitat, King’s Road.
It’s hard to describe why I enjoy crocheting so much, in part it’s because I understand it and I can do it. I think that that’s a given. But on a deeper level it has to do with being bale to completely submerge myself in my project, especially if it’s a repetitive pattern where you memorise it in your head and just switch off your brain. A bit like when I’m painting, a way to de-stress (unless I’ve made a mistake and have to unto an entire row).
However when it works, it’s the best feeling! As you put the final touches, stitch the sides together and weave in all of these exposed yarn threads, and voila!
And better yet, is when somebody commissions a piece. That these clutches bellow made from paper raffia.
I think this pretty much sums up my crochet hobby. It would be great to hear from you on your thoughts about your projects or struggles that you have encountered while learning a new skill. Do you find it harder than knitting? Personally I find it easier, but that’s me.
Here is my own design for you to try. A simple bracelet inspired by garden lavender.
I hope you enjoy this simple design. I’d love to see your end results so please share on Instagram, Facebook or email me directly.
Happy crafting!
