From lace to crochet sweater patterns

Crocheting is a method of creating fabric by working interlocking loops into a chain. The word "crochet" comes from the Middle French word "croche," which means "hook." The device used to create the interlocking loops is similar to a knitting needle, but shorter and with a hook on the end. Crocheted chains can either be worked in rows or in rounds, and a variety of stitches enables the crocheter to create the desired textures for intricate afghan blankets and crochet sweater patterns.

Very little is known about when and where crocheting began. Many believe very early crocheting was done by hand, with a hooked forefinger, as opposed to a tool. This is one possible explanation for the lack of archaeological evidence of early crocheting. The modern form of the art was likely developed in the 16th century. By the 1800s, because crochet lace could be created with minimal tools by all social classes, it gained popularity as a substitute for expensive laces and was looked down upon by many who could afford the more costly items. This changed when Queen Victoria began purchasing crochet lace and began crocheting herself. Around 1845, crocheting received an even bigger boost when Mlle. Riego de la Branchardiere published crochet patterns that duplicated old-style bobbin and needle lace designs.

From these early times until the 1950s, crochet was almost exclusively a thread-based craft, but during that decade, crocheters began using yarns to create clothing items, such as sweaters and shawls. A younger generation picked up the craft and began incorporating bright patterns into their designs in the following decade, and crochet scarf patterns and ponchos became popular during the 1960s and 1970s. The craft waned for a few decades, but in recent years, crocheting has experienced a resurgence as the latest generation has become more interested in handcrafts.

This recent resurgence is due, in part, to the availability of fine yarns and fashionable patterns. In a world of mass production, it is increasingly desirable to own quality, hand-made garments. The combination of unique crochet sweater patterns and well-crafted yarns helps to create pieces that turn heads. Crocheted gifts are also incredibly popular. Yarns are available in a variety of contemporary colors and styles, and there are many hat designs and crochet scarf patterns--ranging from the very simple to the very complex--that make it easy to create the perfect hand-crafted gift.