Saturday, March 28, 2009

Why Is Crocheting Such a Great Craft?

By Henry Fitzpatrick

With some things it is best to learn through past experience and the beauty of failure. Anything that involves an art requires the hideous procedures of practice that give such awful output at the start, but as time goes on, the beauty comes forward. We start to appreciate the process required to produce beautiful art. Sometimes when we are in the process of practicing, we start to ask the questions about where these crafts and art forms came from, and who it was that first developed these ideas. Knowing where they come from and why can help us to master these arts.

What is Crochet?

The craft of creating household items such as clothing, tablecloths, and blankets has been facilitated in recent centuries by the development of such art forms as crocheting. Since the cotton gin was developed, this craft has been a simple and efficient use of thread and yarn to produce beautiful forms of art that incorporate wonderful designs. Crochet originated as less developed crafts in Arabia, South America and China, but was not popularly used until the 1800's in Europe.

What Value does Crocheting Have?

The people we love deserve to have a piece of us with them in the gifts we give. There is nothing more beautiful to me than a newborn baby being wrapped in a blanket made by the child's family. This was a special tradition in my family. In the weeks before birth, we would help my mother to make a quilt or blanket for the new brother or sister. It was our way of welcoming the child to the family. I love the feeling that comes from giving a gift that I have taken the time to make. I can also see the importance of such gifts to the receiver. In today's world, we take the idea of giving for granted, and we let technology and money take the place of meaningful gifts. Crafts like crocheting have a way of keeping that spirit of giving alive.

How Can I Crochet?

Crocheting requires only two items. You need a good hook which can be made of steel, aluminum, plastic or even wood, though the material is not important since it is just a tool. The second item you will need is a ball of yarn or thread. You may use one or the other depending on what you are planning to make. The stitches are a continuation of loops and wraps around your hook.

You will be starting with a slip knot and building a loop chain that will form the first row. All of your rows after that will build off of the chain of loops. You may be a little confused right now, but it will make sense with a quick visual guide. Enjoy this craft because it is going to be the start of many special moments for you and your family. - 22783

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