Crochet is the process of interlocking loops of thread, yarn, or strands of other materials using a crochet hook to make fabric, lace, clothes, hats, bags, jewellery, toys, shoes, etc. The name is derived from the French term ‘crochet’, which means 'small hook'.
History of crochet patterns
Though the earliest known recorded crochet patterns printed was in 1824, there is proof that women have been recording and sharing crochet patterns since well before then.
The exact origin of crochet is still unclear, as the skill was originally spread by word of mouth. However, it is theorised that crochet evolved from traditional practices in South America, Iran or China despite there being no evidence of the craft present before its popularity in Europe during the 19th century.
You can create a variety of textures, patterns and shapes through varying degrees of tension, dropping and adding stitches, and wrapping the yarn around the hook while stitching. You can also experiment with different materials such as thread, wool, yarn, rope, grass, wire, silk and more.
Mlle. Riego de la Branchardiere made crochet popular in Europe in the early 1800s by using old-style needle and bobbin lace designs and turning them into crochet patterns that could easily be duplicated. She published many pattern books so that her designs could be replicated. She is credited with the invention of “lace-like” crochet,” which is today called Irish crochet. This lace-like has common motifs like flowers, leaves and shamrocks that are arranged on a paper or fabric pattern and joined together with crochet stitches.
From 1900 to 1930, women started crocheting rugs of different types like car rugs, slumber rugs, travelling rugs, chaise lounge rugs, sleigh rugs, cushions, coffee and teapot cozies, hot-water bottle covers and potholders.
These days, crochet patterns have become incredibly detailed and intricate as seen in Frida Kahlo or Coco Chanel’s designs. Some of the common stitches known are chain, single crochet, half-double crochet, double crochet, cluster crochet and popcorn crochet.
You can learn this art anytime in your life. If you think it’s not your cup of tea, you can buy crochet décor accents and add some texture and dimension to your living space!