What is crochet?

Crocheting is a craft that involves using a hook and yarn or other fibers to create a fabric by interlocking loops of yarn. It is similar to knitting, but instead of using two needles to create the fabric, crocheters use a single hook. Crochet can be used to create a wide range of items, including clothing, accessories, home decor and toys.

Crocheting as a crafting technique is particularly suitable for those who are new to the craft, as you only work with one hand. You also only have one loop around the crochet hook, which means that you don´t lose stitches as easily as when you e.g. knit. Therefore, crocheting is a very good technique for those of you who want to learn crafts!

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How do you learn to crochet?

For someone who has never crocheted, the language used in traditional crochet patterns can be a bit difficult to understand. Patterns for crochet are often written in a way that contains some special characters and abbreviations. That´s why it´s good to look for free patterns online as well as video instructions, which will help you understand how to make the different stitches and steps. Choose something simple as your first project, so you don´t get tired and give up too quickly.

We at Make Your Own have developed so-called DIY kits that include everything a beginner needs to get started; yarn, crochet hook, written instructions and a bag to store your work in. We want everyone´s experience of starting to crochet to be as good as possible, and therefore the products are also simple enough so that you can finish your first project in less than 10 hours.

You can find all MYOs DIY kits, with crochet as a method, here: https://makeyourown.se/collections/lar-dig-virka

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How to choose the right yarn and crochet hook?

That the yarn fits the project you are working on is important in crocheting. Otherwise, the result will not be as you have imagined. The label of the yarn usually says what size crochet hook to use, but if you can´t find the information, you can also try it on your own. Crochet needles are available in different sizes, ranging from 1mm to 20mm in thickness.

All of MYO´s patterns here on the community page include the information about which yarn and crochet hook you will need for your project, once you have clicked on the image of the one you want to create. In this way, it is easy for you to choose the right material and tools. Our EKO yarns are made from 80% recycled cotton and are soft and easy to use. These yarns are best suited for interior products such as baskets, pots, tablecloths, carpets, etc. Our crochet hooks are made of bamboo trees, which makes them easy and comfortable to handle.

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How do you hold the crochet hook?

Start by holding your crochet hook like you would hold a pencil, with your thumb and forefinger, pinching the hook at the small indentation in the center called the finger grip. You can bring your third finger up towards the top of the hook for comfort and control. The hook will be turned slightly towards you, but it should not be facing down or up.

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How to make a slipknot?

Tying a slipknot on the crochet hook is one of the very first things you need to know to start crocheting. This is how you put the yarn on the hook so you can start crocheting. Twist and loop the yarn on the hook, wrap the yarn under the hook and pull it through the loop to tighten. Don't worry if it´s awkward at first; just keep practicing and it will get easier.

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How to crochet a chain?

A lot of crochet projects start with the chain, so it´s good to learn. The chain is very easy to crochet; Once you have the slipknot around your hook, hook the yarn and pull through. Then you repeat this until you are satisfied with the length of the chain or have the amount of stitches as stated on the instructions.

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