Crochet

Patterns, projects and techniques

ADAPTING TO CROCHET

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Sometimes I see an idea for a craft project that isn’t crocheted, and I wonder why I haven’t seen it done in crochet.  The idea may be simple like this:

http://www.coatsandclark.com/NR/rdonlyres/31AB4FE0-42D5-45C1-9E8B-C18095B834AB/170854/CS0091_PocketedTablecloth.pdf

or something purely whimsical, but decorative, like this:

I would love to see a group of colorful doilies splashed across a wall like this. It would brighten the day of everyone who saw it. The idea isn’t crochet-specific, but it can certainly be beautifully and successfully adapted to crochet.

You don’t need a pattern to adapt these ideas to crochet.  You just need some inspiration.  It’s all around us.  I’d love to see what ideas my readers come up with.  Please share!

Comments

  1. I have been putting crocheted circles, especially fine-yarned granny circles, into embroidery hoops lately. I like to take an old scrap of vintage fabric and put it behind the crochet work to peek through.

  2. I have to agree – I see things like that all the time, but my guess on the tablecloth is that unless the pockets are lined, the yarn would stretch too much.

  3. You know, I just did the fabric-in-an-embroidery hoop thing last week and when I got them on the wall I took a step back to admire my work. The first thing that popped into my head was that they needed doilies on them. I’ll send you a picture when I get them all attached.

  5. I totally agree! I saw a ‘nickel’ quilt pattern the other day that I fell in love with, and wondered, “Why couldnt I crochet that?”….so I AM!~ It started off easily enough, and I will post it on my blog when I finish!

Have you read?

Whip It Up Crochet Blanket – Free Pattern

This Free Whip It Up Crochet Blanket Pattern from Mary Maxim looks like pure comfort crochet. It is a free download for a crochet afghan, and Mary Maxim describes it as a beautifully textured blanket with a plush, soft texture designed to be worked up quickly.

The yarn choice is what really sets the tone here. This pattern uses Bernat Blanket Extra Thick, with 5 skeins and a U.S. U/50 (25 mm) crochet hook. That puts it firmly in the jumbo-yarn category, which usually means fast progress, chunky stitches, and that lovely instant-gratification feeling where the blanket actually starts looking like a blanket very quickly. Mary Maxim lists the yarn as weight 7 jumbo.

The finished size is also generous at 52 x 60 inches, so this is more than a tiny lap throw. It sounds like a proper snuggle-on-the-sofa blanket, and one that would make a nice gift as well. Mary Maxim specifically suggests it as a throw for home décor or as a thoughtful handmade present.

Skill-wise, this one looks very approachable. The page lists it as Beginner / Easy, and the stitch requirements are simple: chain, double crochet, repeat, single crochet, and slip knot. That makes it a good option for newer crocheters who want a chunky blanket project without too much fuss, or for more experienced crocheters who just want something relaxing and cozy on the hook.

I also think this is the kind of pattern that has strong appeal for anyone who likes fast, useful projects. Jumbo yarn blankets are not subtle, but that is part of their charm. They feel squishy, dramatic, and very giftable. Sometimes you want a delicate heirloom project, and sometimes you want a big soft blanket that feels like crocheting with a cloud. This one definitely leans toward the second category. That last part is my take based on the listed materials, size, and description.