Basic Crocheting Techniques

A handcrafted gift is one which can be passed down through generations and appreciated by everyone.  It shows the receiver that you spent a lot of time and effort to make just the right gift for them.  And, because of the time you have invested in the gift, it will be one of the best received. 

Some considerations when making a baby blanket

Blanket Color – If you know the color scheme of the nursery, or even the sex of the baby, you can better match your blanket colors to them.  If not, use your imagination and create a wonderful unisex blanket. 

Imagination - By using your imagination and creativity you can come up with the perfect and safe design for the new bundle of joy. The type of blanket that will last for years and years.

When adding beads to your crochet projects

No matter if your crochet project is simple or complex, adding beads is a simple process which you can learn very quickly.  However, one very important thing is to remember is that your bead holes need to fit over the yarn or fiber which you are crocheting with.  If the bead hole is hard to get on your yarn then you will find the entire process frustrating.  And, the bead, if hard to string, will rub your yarn and cause it to fray.  This fraying will cause your finished product to look less than professional. 

Adding beads to your crochet projects gives you a way to make a simple item really have some sparkle and visual interest.  Whether you choose to add a single bead or thousands, the process is simple and you can do it well with very little practice. 

On knitting yarn selection

If your knitting pattern calls for a very lightweight smaller yarn and you use a larger chunky yarn, then you can count on your end project being a very different size than the pattern states.  While this is easy to adjust for in the case of scarves and blankets, it is not as easy when you are making things like socks, hats, and sweaters.  It is important to keep this in mind when you are selecting your yarn. 

While no one particularly loves knitting a swatch to check for gauge, it is vital when you are looking at substituting a different yarn for a pattern.  This quick check will show you if your gauge is correct for the pattern or if you will need to switch needles or adjust your tension.