C is for Crochet

C is for Crochet  - another instalment in the A-Z meme set up by An Accidental Knitter

Throw made in winter of 2009/10

From time to time I try a bit of crochet.  Oddest thing is that while I have known the basic knit stitches for as long as I can remember, I still have to re-learn the basic crochet stitches every time, although it is getting better and doing a few big, repetitive projects like afghans has helped to hammer it home.  Double and treble crochet stitches are pretty natural to me now - unless I'm using an American pattern where the stitch names will be different (and I tend to think they are more logical the American way).

These afghan projects are especially good during the winter months because they keep you warm as they grow, always a bonus in a draughty old Chalk Cottage (which will do for 'C' another day).

This knitting bag is the result of one of my concerted efforts to learn to crochet.  It's lined with a deep pink to show through the eyelets.



I have a feeling the stitch is called 'Owl Eye', but if not it has a very similar look.  There are crochet flowers at the ends of the handles with bead centres.

I've also made dog coats for my sister's Yorkshire Terriers based on a pattern for a baby's blanket that I saw in Inside Crochet.  The pattern was called Pampelonne.  I have made a toile for the dogs and can adapt all sorts of patterns and stitches to fit.  This one had a black fleece lining and adjustable straps to go under adjustable doggy tummies.  Haven't been able to get them to stand still long enough to photograph the coats in use.

Close-up of dog coat

I have particular trouble understanding increase and decrease in crochet and these are samples I made a few years ago to figure it out.  Forgotten it all now.

So, I can do it if I try and I love doing it, but it doesn't 'stick'.  Time for another concerted effort, I think.