Archive for September, 2010
The crochet quilt instructions are primarily for those with some crocheting experience. But even beginners will be able to do it with some patience.
Required Materials
Yarn
Crochet hook
Step 1
Choose the crochet hook and yarn. The yarn color is up to you. If the quilt will be for children, make sure the yarn is soft and non-irritating. Acrylic and natural fibers are recommended as wool can be irritating for some. It’s also a good idea to pick a yarn that can be washed by a machine. The yarn will inform you what hook size has to be used.
Step 2
Crochet the quilt body. You have several options. You may opt for the V lace pattern (double crochet, chain, double crochet all in 1 stitch). You may also try the shell stitch (3 double crochets in every stitch).
Another possible pattern is the herringbone half double crochet or basket weave. In this example, the quilt measures 48 inches. You can make the shape square or rectangle.
Step 3
The next step in these crochet quilt instructions is to put in a border. Adding a lace border is a good option. You may add a single crochet border.
Next, create picot stitches in the single crochet stitch. You can do this by slip stitching in the stitch. Chain 3 and slip stitch in this stitch. Repeat this around the quilt border.
Selecting the Materials for Quilts and Blankets
If the quilt will be a gift, think of the colors; they should be the hues preferred by the recipient. If the quilt will be used to correspond to interior decoration, pick complementary yarn colors. The yarn weight must also be addressed.
If you want light stitching, baby weight yarn will do. The drawback is that it will take longer to finish. A bigger yarn can make quick work of any project.
Hook Size
The bigger the hook, the looser the stitches are going to be. The big hooks allows for faster crocheting. If you are looking for patterns, the Internet is the best place to search. There are also some magazines that specialize in patterns. It won’t take long before you find one that matches your preference.
The crochet quilt instructions provided above is just an example of the quilts you can make. You need to be patient though; you won’t be able to make those complex quilts until the basic ones have been mastered.
The time it takes to crochet pillow patterns depends on the complexity of the pattern. The following instructions are for a ring bearer’s pillow. If you can crochet a square, this project will be easy.
Required Materials
Fiberfill
Clear nail polish
Ribbon
Yarn needle
Scissors
Worsted weight yarn (hook size is H or 1)
Step 1
Use any color you like and crochet a square. Any stitch style will do, but make sure that you end up with crocheted fabric. Avoid the lacy open pattern. Here, double stitches will be employed. For fiberfill stuffing, the square can be made into any size. For a pre-made pillow form, ensure the sizes match.
Step 2
Create the 2nd square in the same manner you did the initial square. Sew the squares on the 3 sides. Connect the 2 squares with the wrong sides facing. You will have to use a whipstitch with a long yarn strand. The yarn needle will also be needed.
Step 3
Fasten a ribbon through the middle of the square at the top. When you crochet pillow patterns, make sure to leave some ribbon length projecting from the pillow. Cover the ribbon ends using some nail polish.
Step 4
Stuff the pillow. Pack it in until the pillow gets firm.
Step 5
Sew the 4th side. Use the whipstitch, yarn and yarn needle for this task. Fasten the ends. Weave the yarn. Leave this below the exposed portion of the project. Add some lace or beads if you like.
Tips and Reminders
Crocheting is not difficult. There are many types of stitches, and you’ll need to learn more than a few if you want to make complex patterns. But after you understand the basics, the rest will be easy.
When you learn to make a loop for the chain stitch, you can build on this. The loop and chain stitch are the foundation for even the most complex patterns.
The chain stitch is the starting point not just for pillow patterns but all stitches. It is here that the other stitches will be set. These include the half double crochet, single crochet, double and treble crochet.
Other stitches include the triple treble crochet and afghan. Eventually you will learn that the pillow patterns are centered upon these stitches. The stitches you skip will vary depending on the pillow design too.
By employing these simple techniques, you will find it easy to crochet pillow patterns. Feel free to experiment with different types of stitches too.
These crochet pillow instructions can be made by a novice, as only basic stitches are required. The dimensions of the pillow may be expanded if desired.
Required Materials
Pillow stuffing
Yarn needle
Scissors
Crochet hook
Yarn
Step 1
Chain two then create half a dozen single crochet in the second chain (at the hook). Use a slip stitch to join the last single crochet with the first. Chain one and create a two single crochet in the single crochet at the preceding row. Join the ends of the row using a slip stitch.
Step 2
Chain one and create a single crochet on the 1st single. Make another crochet on the 2nd single. Keep making two singles and one up to the row’s end. Join the row ends using the slip stitch. Create another row like it.
Step 3
Chain 3 and double crochet on the 1st single crochet. Now you have to two double crochet the proceeding single. Keep going with one double and 2 up to the row’s end. Use the slip stitch to connect them. Chain two. Single crochet on the whole row.
Step 4
The next step in these crochet pillow instructions is to duplicate step 3 so you can make 8 rows. The next stitch is a double crochet. For the next stitch, you have to do a double crochet.
For the proceeding three stitches, make a double crochet. Keep making 2 double crochet once and follow with double crochet 3x. Join it when you reach the row’s end.
Step 5
Chain three. The 1st crochet has to be double crochet. Create 2 double crochet in the proceeding stitch. Repeat for the next 2 stitches. Keep making one double in 2 stitches and 2 double in 1 stitch. Connect at the row’s end. Single crochet at the row.
Step 6
Repeat the previous step but create double stitches in 4 than 2. Do step 5 again but make the double crochet in 5 stitches in the row prior to doing 2 double in a single stitch. Make a single crochet row.
Step 7
Do the pattern again to create the other side of the pillow. Sew the sides halfway with your yarn needle. Finish it up and enclose the form. You are done.
The final steps are to put in the pillow form. Keep sewing until the pillow is finished. By following these simple crochet pillow instructions, you’ll be able to finish the project quickly and easily.
The following is a guide to making an easy crochet blanket pattern. Even those with only basic sewing and stitching skills will have little problems making the twin size blanket and the two stitch blanket.
The Twin Size Blanket
Required Materials
15 skeins assorted colors
Burgandy yarn (5 skeins)
Step 1
Create 30 granny squares. Every square will be made up of nine rows or rounds. You can begin by making the center squares. Chain stitch half a dozen times. This will result in a loop.
Next, create 3 double crochet chain 1. This is the first part. 3 double crochet chain 1 and you will have the next section. Keep repeating this until you end up with four sections. Join this and the 1st square will be done.
Keep going until there are eight rows with varying colors. Use a different color for the last row. This is the rim. You should end up with a big square. This is the first of the thirty. Repeat the process for the others.
Step 2
The next step to creating this easy crochet blanket pattern is to organize the thirty squares into five rows. The five rows should be composed of six squares each. This will result in a blanket with five rows with six squares. Arrange the squares so the colors match.
Step 3
Combine the five rows of six squares. The final step is to put in the trim. Single crochet all around the blanket one time. For the succeeding row, make 3 double crochet. Keep going around at the edges and chain two times. Do this in-between the corner sections.
The Two Stitch Blanket
Create three rows of the 1 stitch. After adding the final stitch to the third row, create 3 chain stitches. Flip the blanket and make a double crochet. Wrap the yarn on the hook and put it below the last row’s loops. Put the crochet hook in. Draw the yarn. Pull the yarn at the 2 loops.
Put the yarn over the crochet hook. Put this double crochet on all the stitches. Always chain 3 and flip blanket. Keep repeating this until the blanket is made. Or you can alternate the double crochet with the single crochet. This will produce a unique pattern.
After you make this easy crochet blanket pattern, you can start to experiment with other styles and designs. It won’t be long before you start stitching some complex patterns with ease. You just have to be patient.
Crochet blanket patterns can come in various styles, sizes and types. Depending on the type of pattern you make, the process can take a few hours or even months. It all depends on how complex the pattern is.
Learning the Basics is Essential
Understanding how to crochet is not that difficult. But if you want to learn the more complex types, it will take some time. To make the more complex patterns, an understanding of the various patterns and designs will be necessary.
One of the nice things about crocheting is that once you learn the basics, the rest will be easier to grasp. At the same time, trying various crochet blanket patterns can unleash your creative side.
How Long Does it Take to Make a Pattern?
As stated earlier, this will depend on the complexity of the project. Another factor that will come into play is your experience. The more experience you have in making chains and stitches, the easier it will be to create complex patterns.
But even if you are experienced, the fact is that intricate and highly detailed patterns will take longer. A detailed pattern also takes longer because you have to go over the design to make sure there are no mistakes. As every designer will tell you, a single mistake can ruin the whole pattern.
The third factor is how much how much time you have to spare for the project. If you have the time, the process will be expedited.
Types of Patterns
There are several kinds of patterns that can be made. The reason is simple: crocheting consists of putting one loop into the other. This makes it very easy to make various deigns and combine different colors. If the patterns appear tight, the method used is a single crochet.
A loose pattern will be constructed via double crochet.
The difference between a knitted and crocheted blanket is that a crocheted material has a rough appearance. The knitted ones are smoother by comparison.
Study the Basics
There are various kinds of patterns that you can design. The Internet has several types available. Before you try any of these, it is best if you take the time to study the basics of crocheting.
The best way to learn about crochet blanket patterns is by trying it out. Start with a simple pattern. This will give you the confidence to try more complex patterns and designs.
All you need to crochet a granny square blanket are a hook, yarn and these simple guidelines. Not only is a homemade blanket cheaper than buying one, but it also makes for a wonderful present.
Fundamental Stitching Instructions
The granny square pattern only needs two types of crochet stitches: the double crochet and the chain stitch. Start by creating half a dozen stitches and combine them in a loop. This will be the primary level. Note that you can also make seven stitches instead.
Next, chain two to begin the proceeding round. The next step is to chain two. Now you have to create two double crochet stitches. On the first corner, two chain stitches.
The next step to crochet a granny square blanket is to make a group of three double crochet stitches on the other side. This is looped at the chain circle.
Finishing the Project
The succeeding round or layer are made in the same way as described earlier. The clusters of three double crochet stitches are applied and chain stitches spaces are set on the edges too. Once you have learned the basic steps, you can try other styles.
Various Granny blanket Designs
Once you learn how to make granny squares, other options for crocheting blankets may be tried. A large granny square can be used to construct a blanket for a queen size bed. Other blankets may be used to create a lap or throw blanket.
Combining matching squares will produce an appealing design. It can also serve as an interesting motif. Some of the most popular are blankets that resemble traditional quilts. Smaller squares with solid colors and geometric patterns can be made as well. It is also possible to create granny squares of varying sizes.
Edges and Fringes
After making the granny square you can crochet an edge for it. Adding the edge will provide the blanket with a finished look. Putting in the edge will also help keep the shape together.
You can create the edging by double crocheting around the blanket. Use only one color from the yarn. You have the option of using zigzag stitches, shells or scallops. You can also employ basic loops constructed from stitches.
If you are going to crochet a granny square blanket but don’t want trim or edging, fringe can be used instead. Just loop the yarn in the double crochet. Pull it and it should come out looking fine and dandy.
Crocheting blanket edges is one of the best ways to give it a classic appearance. By adding these fine edges, the blanket will look polished and expensive, even though the process is actually quite simple.
Required Materials
Crochet thread
Crochet hook, size 6
Tapestry needle
Sewing machine
Straight pins
Iron
Scissors
Measuring tape
Flannel fabric, 1 yard
Step 1
Slice a 30 inch square off the flannel. This will be the blanket. You can change the 30 inches to something bigger or smaller. Fold an edge about 1/8 of an inch at the wrong side. Stitch the folded edge. Repeat the process for the other edges. This will be the foundation for the other stitches.
Step 2
Place a tapestry needle through the blanket’s edge. This needle comes with a thick shaft that will provide you with a starter opening for putting in the crotchet hook.
Step 3
Choose a corner from the blanket. Put the needle 1/4 inch from the edge. Repeat it 1/2 inches all around the flannel blanket.
Step 4
To continue crocheting blanket edges, place the blanket on your lap. The right side must face you. The edge you will begin with is on top. Put the crochet hook in the opening about the middle spot at the top. Hold four inches of the thread tail. Set it on the blanket’s back edge. This will be just under the opening.
Step 5
Wrap the thread all over the hook over the thread tail. Now pull the thread and into the hole front.
Step 6
Pass the hook at the top of the hem. Yarn it over. Pull the thread and into the loop of the hook. This is one stitch. Put the hook in the proceeding hole. This is at the left side of the initial hole. Make another stitch. Continue making the stitch in the holes until you go all around the hem.
Step 7
Connect the final loop of the base stitches to the first stitch. Put the hook in the stitch. Yarn over and pull the thread. Yarn and pull into the loop. Keep yarning until there are two loops remaining.
Put the hook on top of the chain two stitches at the start of the round. Make double stitches around the edges of the blanket. Finally, clip the thread and weave the starting and end threads.
The act of crocheting blanket edges is not as complicated as it seems. After you start the process, you might be amazed at how rapidly you progress.
These steps will show you how to make an easy crochet blanket. By the time you finish the project, you will end up with a very adequate blanket for the baby.
Required Tools and Materials
4 ply polyester yarn; multicolored
Crochet hook size F (15)
Step 1
Begin by tying a slip knot. Place the crochet hook in the knot’s loop.
Step 2
Chain 135 and make a turn. Start working back along the chain. Create a single chain crochet on the second chain. Do this from the crochet hook. Now you have to single crochet a couple more times. You will make a single crochet stitch at the top of the succeeding two chain stitches.
Step 3
The next step is to pull a loop. You just have to yarn then pull through. Make sure you pull through in one hook on the loop. To make this easy crochet blanket, repeat the step you just did five times.
Pull the yarn through at the first loop only. Keep doing this until only half a dozen loops are on the hook. Now yarn over. Pull the remaining loops through.
Step 4
Single crochet five times. Create one crochet in the succeeding five stitches. Remember that these stitches take place in only one stitch of the row.
Step 5
Keep repeating those steps until you get to 3 inches from the end point of the row. It is crucial that the row terminates with equal numbers of valleys and peaks. If there are six valleys at the Vs in the blanket, there should be six peaks as well.
Step 6
Chain 2 and turn the material over. Start crocheting along the previous row. Make sure to follow the pattern. When you get to one of the peaks, single crochet five times. When you reach the valley, decrease the stitch.
Tips
The term chain stitch refers to the act of pulling the yarn in the loop at the hook. To make color changes, slice the yarn when you reach the end of a row. Pull a couple or three stitches. Fasten the new color in place. Set the stitch back in place as you did the other stitches.
For those with extensive sewing knowhow, this easy crochet blanket will only take minutes to finish. But even those with basic knowledge should have no trouble getting this project done. Just make sure that you assess the stitching to avoid mistakes.
Before you can start working on various crochet patterns, it will be imperative that you know the symbols used in the guides and instructions. Understanding the elements will help avoid any problems and confusion.
The Symbols
The symbols used are the following: {curlicue braces}, [brackets], (parentheses), and the asterisk *.
The Brackets: []
The brackets are utilized for a cluster of instructions to be worked for a specific number of times. For instance, “[ch2, sc in next dc] 6 times” denotes performing the directions half a dozen times. If the number is 8, it means dong it eight times.
Curlicue Braces {}
There are times when the instructions in the brackets have to be repeated too. If this occurs, the instructions in the bracket will be fitted with curlicue braces {}.
Here is an example: “[sc in each of next 2 sts, ch2, {shell in next ch-2 sp} 3 times, ch2] 4 times”. In this case, you have to do the instructions in the brackets four times. The crochet pattern instructions within the curlicue brackets have to be done three times.
Parenthesis ()
The parenthesis is utilized to set aside a group of stitches to be worked in a space, loop or stitch. Here is an example: “sk 3, sc (3dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in next st”. This indicates that after keeping 3 sc, you have to go through 3dc, ch 1 and the remaining dc at the succeeding stitch.
If you are going to create a pattern that has numerous sizes, the guides for the bigger size will be set in parenthesis.
Asterisks *
A single asterisk is utilized when grouped instructions have to be done again. For instance, ” *dc in each of next 4 dc, 2 sc in next sc, rep from * around, join with sl st in beg sc”, signifies the pattern must be worked at the first asterisk on the whole round or row.
The double asterisks are utilized when a partial part of the repeat instructions are to be done. “*ch 3 (sc, ch2, sc) in next ch-2 sp, ch3**, dc in next dc, rep from * 3 times, ending last rep at **” denotes a third repeat of the one asterisk. You will end at the double asterisk.
These crochet patterns symbols may be confusing, but understanding them is necessary. By reading through the instructions carefully and thoroughly, you will understand these signs without trouble.
The process of crocheting a square blanket is not as hard as it seems. Even if you are a beginner, it is something you should be able to do. However, you do need to take your time. It is also important that you prepare all the necessary materials.
Required Materials
Tapestry needle
Crochet hook
Worsted yarn
Step 1
Create a pattern. You can opt for four quarters, two halves or one square. At this point, you have to decide on the blanket dimensions. You can make four 1-by-24-inch pieces, a couple of 24-by-48-inch pieces or a single 48-inch square piece.
You can make other pieces using sizes other than 48 inches. You might also consider making stripes: a couple of rows of a single color and a couple more with another hue. Just make sure the colors look good together.
Step 2
Select the stitch and yarn you want to employ. You may opt for a 4 ply knitted worsted weight or a 2 ply yarn. Keep in mind that the stitches differ depending on the manufacturer. Some are light while others are looser.
When crocheting a square blanket, you can opt for a single or double stitch. A double stitch gives it an open appearance, while a single stitch is more solid. It is also possible to use both at the same time.
Step 3
Do not forget to use the gauge. Make sure you are aware of how many stitches there are per inch. You also have to account for the rows per inch. Taking these into account will ensure everything comes out the right size.
Step 4
Combine the pieces. Take a whip stitch and tapestry needle and connect all the parts. Knit the tails. Make sure you do the whole process at the wrong side. Make sure that you check every now and then to make sure the stitching matches up.
Step 5
To make the blanket look professional, you have to create a border. To make the border, begin at a corner and double crochet. When you reach a corner, make three double crochets. Make it three rows. Now all you have to do is tie and then weave it. Again, check every now and then to make sure the weaving is correct.
As you start crocheting a square blanket, remember that you can work with various colors. If you do not hurry and just enjoy the process, the entire procedure will be quite enjoyable.