In challenging economic times, crocheting is making a come-back. Frugal crafters have discovered the practicality of crochet. Perhaps no other craft offers such potential in relation to the variety of items that can be produced.
Crocheting uses a single hook to handcraft fabric out of yarn. Common crochet stitches can be used for most projects allowing crocheters to turn out useful household items, clothing and accessories such as trendy crocheted jewelry.
Why Crocheting is Making a Come-Back
Crocheting doesn't require a costly investment in materials and allows for creation of attractive and unique-looking pieces that withstand the test of time. A person can outfit a home and supplement a wardrobe using easy-to-master crocheting techniques.
A consideration of what can be made from crocheting sheds insights as to why crocheting is enjoying a resurgence in popularity and is considered the craft of choice.
Crocheting for the Kitchen
A kitchen can be outfitted with crocheted items to match any color scheme. These pieces can be produced relatively quickly.
Smaller items include crocheted dishcloths, pot holders, hot pads and tea cozies, pretty shelf edgings and trendy-looking place mats. Crocheted bowls are also in vogue.
Larger projects, such as crocheted tablecloths, wall hangings, valances, curtains and door mats add eye appeal.
Crocheting for the Household
A range of attractive decor items can be crocheted. These make beautiful additions to the home.
- Sun-catchers
- Crocheted flowers
- Crocheted wreaths
- Table runners
- Christmas ornaments (snowflakes, angels, tree skirts)
- Crocheted dolls
Everyday items can be produced via crochet and can help to stretch dollars. It costs far less to make a crocheted basket or rug, for example, than to purchase these items.
- Crocheted baskets
- Tote bags
- Crocheted rugs
- Bedspreads
- Crocheted blankets
- Throws/afghans
- Crocheted toys
Crocheted Clothing
Lacy crocheted tops, dresses and bikinis look distinctive. Socks and slippers are always usable, while crocheted shawls and shrugs, vests, sweaters and jackets make warm outer wear. Add mittens, hats and scarves to the list.
Crocheted purses and jewelry are popular. An ABC video clip, Crochet's Come-Back discusses why crocheted jewelry is the current fashion trend, a combo of crochet with different metals, stones and beads.
Crochet has long been a favorite medium for creating baby clothes and accessories. Crocheted hats and sweaters, booties and christening dresses, baby blankets and soft toys are always welcome gift items.
Due to the comeback of crocheting, yarn exchanges have cropped up in various locations and free crochet patterns and crocheting tutorials can be found online. Crochet is experiencing a rebirth and is evolving in exciting directions.
Melody Rhodes - M. Rhodes is author of the Bedbug Books. She's been published in Canada, U.S. U.K. & NZ and has won awards for her poetry/prose.
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