Beginner's Guide to Crochet - UK (2019-10)

(Antfer) #1

BASIC TECHNIQUES


For every stitch you learn and practise, crochet up a square or
two, using different colours if you want to. Then sew them all
together to make a fab throw that will become a great reference
guide. Try using DK yarn, a 4mm hook and about 22 stitches to
make a 10cm (4in) square, or 33 stitches to make a slightly larger
15cm (6in) square. Make a foundation chain of 22 or 33 chains,
then the turning chain. Then work a double crochet stitch into
each of the 22 or 33 chains to the end. Turn,
make the turning chain and
work a double crochet into
every stitch to the end.
Repeat until you have a
square, then fasten off.

HIP TO BE SQUARE


O


nce you’ve learned to make chains,
you’ll be able to work some crochet
stitches into them. The double
crochet stitch (called single crochet in the
US) is usually the first stitch that crocheters
learn. It’s quick and easy, and there are plenty
of patterns that use nothing else.
The double crochet is a small, short stitch
that creates a dense fabric with almost no
gaps. The resulting fabric is usually quite
thick, firm and warm, so it’s a great stitch for
winter accessories. It’s also useful for items

that need a firm shape, such as amigurumi
toys and homewares. Try making small
squares for dishcloths or you can use larger
ones for cushions.
Crocheters often describe the specific
patterned effect created on the crochet
fabric as a ‘stitch pattern’. If you work rows of
double crochet stitches on every row, back
and forth, you’ll create a simple double
crochet stitch pattern.
Below left is an example of double crochet
stitches worked in one row. Repeat these

rows to create double crochet fabric, shown
below. You’ll see that the stitch pattern
creates rows of ‘v’ shapes. In rows, double
crochet fabric looks the same on the front
and the back, which can be useful. In rounds,
double crochet fabric gives a different effect
on each side. Whichever method you’re
using, a pattern should tell you which is the
right and wrong side.
Work through our guide to learn the double
crochet stitch and then have a go at our cute
frill project on page 39.

(^1) NEAT ROWS
Each double crochet stitch is
worked into each chain stitch,
creating a neat ‘v’ shape along
the side of the stitch and also a
‘v’ shape at the top of the stitch.
Double crochet is abbreviated
as ‘dc’ in patterns.
(^2) DENSE FABRIC
Double crochet fabric is firm,
dense, warm and has a lovely
drape. The small stitches sit
very close together and
create a fine texture.
Row
Fabric
DOUBLE CROCHET
FABRIC
This super-easy stitch forms a dense, sturdy fabric
DOUBLE CROCHET
FABRIC IDEAS
The dense fabric
created using
double crochet
stitches is ideal
for many items,
including stuffed
toys, unlined bags
and even cute
baby garments.

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