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28. February 2009

Catching Steelhead Fish

Filed under: Articles — admin @ 16:17

Fly Fishing for Steelhead
Suggested resource: The Fly Fishing Guidebook

(more…)

5. February 2009

Handy Scrapbooking Tools

Filed under: Articles — admin @ 16:28

Tools for Making Distinctive Scrapbooks
Stuck for a great project idea? Check out
10 Great Scrapbooking Projects To Welcome Spring!



Making the scrapbook process easier with the right tools

Scrapbooking can be a very challenging task for the beginner. For one thing, you need creativity in order to create a beautiful work of art. You also need to think up a distinct theme which forms the backbone of the scrapbook. The items you put inside the scrapbook should also be arranged in such a manner that their significance is unmistakable. With all these complexities, many people would be hard-pressed to complete a scrapbook without the proper tools.

Here are some tools to enhance your experience with scrapbooking, give you more options for creativity and make it easier to scrap successfully.

1) Scissors – We covered this in the last section, a little. Seems like everyone has scissors but, for scrapbooking, it’s important to have the right scissors.

Everyone knows what scissors are, right? Well, here is a metaphor for the scissors in scrapbooking. Scissors are like bringers of order. Scissors shape the little bits of paper into forms that you can use in your scrapbook. This scrapbooking tool is very important in making pieces fit together. Some people may refuse to cut the pieces of paper, but only through this, can the scrapbook be completed.

In that sense, a pair of scissors can symbolize the truth. Why, you ask? Well, the truth hurts. But it has to hurt, doesn’t it? It has to hurt if it is to set you free.

There are two distinctive types of scissors you can use as scrapbooking tools:

a) Conventional paper-cutting scissors – These scissors are made to cut and to cut straight. This is the type of scissors people encounter from the very beginning of their childhood. You need to be able to trust your scissors to cut straight, because it just looks ugly if you unintentionally use dull scissors and mess up the cut of the paper.

b) Crafting scissors – This type of scissors can be bought at different art supply shops. These scissors are distinctively shaped in order to produce different types of cuts. Using this scrapbooking tool can be a whole lot more convenient than trying to follow a pattern using straight-cutting scissors. You see, using conventional scissors can give you carpal tunnel because of the stress your fingers will be taking. Nobody wants that.

In addition to scissors, there are some other tools you may find very helpful in creating professional looking scrapbooks:

2) Puncher – This nifty scrapbooking tool is used mainly to punch holes into paper. There are, once again, two types of punchers available out there:

a) Conventional – This type of puncher produces round holes. Funnily enough, this type of puncher was not designed as a scrapbooking tool, but as an office supply. For those of today’s generation, files are known as the thing you keep documents in your computer. However, for other people, files consist of important papers and documents which are organized together. Punchers were used to put holes into those documents in order to accommodate a fastener.

However, punchers are now used today to make perfect circles on scrapbooking pages.
b) Shaped – This type of puncher, pretty much works in the same manner as the conventional puncher. However, the edges of the punching mechanism take different shapes in order to accommodate your crafting needs. This scrapbooking tool is used to make different shaped holes in the pages of the scrapbook.

3) Tweezers – Tweezers are often used as scrapbooking tools in order to enable the crafter to put in a design or to glue in a bit of paper neatly. You see, when making a scrapbook, you will be working with different materials together with a lot of glue. Because of this, there is a high risk of you smudging the different pictures of the scrapbook. Tweezers are excellent scrapbooking tools to maintain the cleanliness of your handiwork.

4) Computer – This can be an excellent scrapbooking tool because of the fact that it can do a variety of things. On the computer, you can do research on what scrapbooking theme to use. This means you are given more resources on the varieties of different themes and the ways you can incorporate them in your scrapbook. You can also use the computer to get more images to put in your scrapbook. By using the computer, you get all the advantage of modern technology and can therefore, make your scrapbook into anything you like.

Scrapbooking tools allow people to have an easier time crafting their handiwork. However, you should remember that sometimes. Mistakes actually make a scrapbook more personal. Mistakes show the human side of you. Like the memories you show on a scrapbook, the making of it should not necessarily be perfect, but it should be fun.

Want to save money on your scrapbooking tools?
Check out WeScrap - For members only. Take advantage of the lowest priced scrapbook supplies anywhere!

And be sure to read our other articles in the Making a Scrapbook Fun article series:

  • Scrapbook Making Checklist
  • Scrapbook Frames Information
  • Why Bother with Scrapbooks?
  • Scrapbooking Ideas
  • Scrapbook Making Checklist

    Filed under: Articles — admin @ 16:18

    Checklist for Beginning a Scrapbook
    Want to make money from your scrapbooking hobby?
    Quickly Start Your Own Scrapbooking Business From Home - Written for beginners and easy to understand



    Items Required to Begin a Scrapbook

    You want to make a scrapbook but don’t know what you need and don’t want to be halfway into it and realize you are missing something important? No problem. Here are the bare essentials you will need to start your new scrapbook:

    Scrapbooking Album

    Choose the right size of the scrapbooking album which you will be using. Also take note of the color details that will add more of an artistic and personal touch to it. Also consider how large an album you may need, based on what size pictures you will most likely be using within it.

    Sufficient Refill Pages

    The refills for the album do not come available in one standard size. It is only proper that you first buy the album so as to know what size will be right for the refill pages that you will purchase. If you buy bargain refill pages, be sure to find out if they are close-out. If so, more of same may not be available so you need to make sure you get enough pages the first time.

    Scissors that cut neatly

    Even if you have scissors, check out the comfort level because even though it may not seem like a big deal, it can really make a difference in how much fun your scrapbooking to have the right scissors. The scissors that you must use should be sharp and the handles should be comfortable in your hands. Make sure that they don’t hurt you or else your cut outs will not turn out to be right.

    Scrapbook-appropriate glue

    There are obviously different kinds of adhesives which you can buy from the educational supplies. For a scrapbook, the acid-free adhesive is very much advisable. They work well both on photos and cardstocks.

    Printed and colored paper and cardstock

    The printed papers that you will choose must complement the photos that you will include. They should be able to provide accent in the overall appearance of the scrapbook.

    Acid Free Scrapbooking Pen for Entries

    The pen that you will make use of must be acid-free, with fine tips, and permanent. It would not be good to look at pens with ink that smudges.

    Now these are the basic and essential scrapbooking products which must not be left out in your shopping. But then if your budget allows you, you can always add more. Ribbons, glitters, sequins, stones, and many more items which you think will serve as great embellishments can be included in your list. You may also add some more items such as the die cut machine, set of journaling pens in various colors, oval or circle cutter, and so on.

    Actually, the ideas presented online can help you a lot in your scrapbooking venture. You always have a choice when it comes to design, color schemes, and layouts. The more artistic you get… the better. Good luck then!

    Want to save money on your scrapbooking supplies?
    Check out WeScrap - For members only. Take advantage of the lowest priced scrapbook supplies anywhere!.

    Scrapbook Frames Information

    Filed under: Articles — admin @ 16:09

    What to look for in a scrapbook frame

    Suggested Resource, Especially for Scrapbooking Newbies:
    Ultimate Fast Start Scrapbooking Guide - A Step By Step Guide To Creating Beautiful Scrapbook Layouts!



    <Scrapbooking Fun - Focus on Scrapbook Frames

    When choosing a scrapbooking frame, you should be cautious. There is a wide array of choices of scrapbooking frames made available in arts and crafts shops. Scrapbooking frames vary in styles and designs so you’ve got to bear these things in your mind.

    Also take note of the theme which you need to employ in your scrapbook frames. Scrapbook frames come in a variety of themes such as Weddings, Birthdays, Halloween, Christmas, baptism, etc.

    If thinking of a themed scrapbook, make sure you are going to have enough photos to justify one. One neat idea might be to start a yearly scrapbook for Halloween, Christmas or Birthdays and update with the new pictures each year. Over time, this sort of yearly update scrapbook could be something you will treasure.

    There are even websites that offer printable scrapbook frames. That way you can just print them out on your computer and save both time and money. However, be sure you have a good printer that can do color well and keep in mind that a color ink cartridge is not cheap. Still, having the convenience of printing right at home has it’s perks.

    Some Scrapbooking Secrets to Remember

    When scrapbooking is what you wish to do, always never fail to conduct research. Always look for little things which can be employed in your scrapbook frames such as trinkets, ribbons, stickers, and many more. Thrift stores are an excellent and inexpensive place to pick up lots and lots of unique and unusual trinkets for your scrapbooks. You might make a list of colors and themes before going so you know what to look for and what will match your scrapbook theme.

    Where should you conduct your research? Wander through your local arts and crafts shops taking notes of designs and themes that please you.

    Also never forget to browse through the internet as it is a deep well of information. Online shopping has never been boring. Via the internet, you’ll grasp the essential and the hottest materials in scrapbooking. You can pick up great tips from most of these online scrapbook sites too. This one has articles on scrapbooking.

    Scrapbooks as Gifts

    Among the best attributes of scrapbooks is that they count as a gift for all seasons. Whether it is for Christmas, graduations, birthdays, weddings, and many other events, scrapbooks are always one of the best gifts to give to people. So always find time and collect your photos of friends and family members. You can certainly paint a smile on their faces as you hand them your scrapbook gifts.

    Why Bother with Scrapbooks?

    Filed under: Articles — admin @ 15:53

    Why Make a Scrapbook at all?
    Suggested Resource: 500 Scrapbook Sketches - Discover The Secret To Creating Scrapbooking Layouts You Absolutely Adore Easily And Effortlessly Every Time.



    The Benefits of Scrapbooking

    Why waste time for scrapbooking? What can you actually get from it? As everybody knows, scrapbooking is one avenue of keeping memories alive and continuously fresh. It has been everybody’s custom to take photos of every single important occasion in their lives whether they may be in the past, present, or in the future. Why just stick them in plain-looking photo albums when in fact you can add some artistic and personal touch to them?

    For many, scrapbook is an artform and also a very personal way to store memories of loved ones, wonderful events and special times in their lives. However, there is a trick to making good scrapbooks. Even the best intentions without a little preparation and thought, can end up just being a messy photo album.

    The basic problem which many scrapbookers face is that they tend to have an overflow of ideas right on the first page that they eat up too much time on it. But then this is not something to get disappointed with since the finished product will always be worth it.

    The real score in scrapbooking is not really to include all those photos you’ve taken. It is all about choosing some pieces that best stand as the representations of the certain occasion. Remember that scrapbooking balances the role of the photos plus the chosen layout for all those photos. Frankly speaking, the design of your choice will aid in telling the real story behind the concept more than those pictures will do.

    When you had never tried scrapbooking but you are actually craving for that experience, you can watch other people do it so you will be able to grasp some essential ideas. You can likewise take the opportunity of attending classes. Yes, there are classes especially held for the benefit of the budding scrapbookers.

    There are certainly a lot of local arts and crafts shops that conduct classes for individuals of all levels. You may opt whether or not to buy your supplies there. Likewise, several community colleges make such classes available also for outsiders.

    These courses can really be of great help for the beginners in the world of scrapbooking. For a minimal fee, all supplies are included and you can start enjoying the experience.

    Some classes will already provide you with the ready-made scrapbooks while there are those that will require you to bring your personally-owned scrapbooks. But of course, you’ve got to bring your very own pictures! For sure you can’t wait how your scrapbook frames will look like in the end.

    Really into scrapping? Why not join the International Scrapbook Association?

    Scrapbooking Ideas

    Filed under: Articles — admin @ 15:44

    Ideas for Scrapbooking Pages
    Suggested resource: Thousands Of Fun Scrapbooking Titles, Phrases, Captions, Quotes, Sayings & Ideas! Lots of free sample downloads too



    <Some Creative Options for your Scrapbooking Passion

    So you love scrapbooking but don’t know where to start? Or maybe you created a scrapbook but it feels scattered and without a good theme? Finding ideas to apply to your scrapbooking can be the most challenging aspect of this fun craft. Hopefully this series of articles on making scrapbooks can be helpful. If you are an avid scrapper, you may also want to check out the International Scrapbooking Association

    1) Color – The simplest idea for a scrapbooking page should be a color. Basing your scrapbook pages on a single color though, can be quite complex if you want it to be. There are shades to experiments with. By trying on different shades of a color, you can have variety and yet stick with the same scrapbooking idea.

    Free scrapbook layouts

    Another fun scrapbooking page idea that involves colors has you researching their different interpretations. By using colors this way, you can actually have a message that means something special to you.

    2) Literature – Think of your favorite piece of literature and base your scrapbook on that. Taking inspiration from books or a poem is a really good scrapbooking idea. You see, authors sometimes picture their characters and stories so vividly, that you can visualize them in your mind. By placing these images on paper, you can actually share with people something that so inspired you.

    Basing your scrapbook on a piece of literature can be pretty deep for some people to take. You may have to do a bit of explaining before someone gets the message of the scrapbook. In doing so, you get to show a part of your soul to the readers. It may also inspire people to take up reading.

    3) Characters –Characters abound in the world that people can take inspiration from. In using characters, you have two options:

    A. Fiction – this idea for scrapbooking pages involves you taking a fictional character and using that character as an inspiration for your scrapbooking page. Contrary to what most people think, fictional characters are actually harder to research on than actual, living characters.

    One reason is the fact that different people have different interpretations of them. Take Batman, for example. In the sixties, the TV series portrayed him as this campy superhero who wears grey and blue spandex. In the 1989 movie, he’s a bit more brooding, and wears protective armor. In the movie “Batman and Robin” he is portrayed as this not so brooding, talkative character who wears a rubber suit with nipples. See how different people’s perceptions of a fictional character can be?

    One advantage to this, though, is the fact that you can have more freedom with this idea for a scrapbooking page. You see, not many people will question your interpretation of a fictional character.

    B. Non-fiction – In this idea for a scrapbooking page, you take your inspiration from a real person. It doesn’t really matter if they are alive or dead. However, remember that people change all the time. Just take a look at Britney Spears and you’ll probably realize the meaning of this statement.

    By using real persons as your inspiration, you are actually offered a whole lot of detail on their lives. However, you won’t really have the same freedom as when you are trying to do a fictional character.

    4) Activities – Try getting an idea for scrapbooking pages from your favorite activity. Most guys would choose sports and stuff, and nothing’s wrong with that. However, you may want to try being different and think outside the box. Base your scrapbook on an interest which no one can really guess. In doing this, you’ll get to have additional fun by having people guess the connection of the page to the activity.

    Sometimes, people tend to categorize us through our activities. However, you might want to prove to others your true depth by showing in your scrapbook that a certain activity foes not define the “whole” you.

    You might want to show, using your scrapbook that even though you enjoy a particular activity, it is only a minor part of your existence and that you have a deeper facet to your personality than being a computer whiz, basketball jock and other stereotypical labels.

    There you go: those are just some ideas for scrapbooking pages you might think about trying out. By trying out different things before you actually use them, you can actually see if those ideas for scrapbooking pages fit your personality.

    21. December 2008

    For newbies in crocheting

    Filed under: Articles — admin @ 05:28

    Learning the Craft of Crocheting
    Suggested Resource: Official Guide to Crocheting



    for newbies in Crocheting
    Crocheting is not an activity made only for our grannies and for bitter spinsters. It can be done by everyone. Especially, now that clothing trends are now more inclined into the use of crocheted items, popular clothing designers are also smitten by crocheting.

    However, crocheting is not only for the plain Jane. One has to have the patience and, of course, the time to be able to do anything crocheted. So how does one actually get herself learn to crochet?

    It really is not a hard skill to learn. But it neither is an easy one. In order to get you going, all you need is a good crochet hook, yarns, measuring tape, yarn needle, some pins, and a lot of determination to finish a crocheting project.

    Here is a rundown of tips on how to easily learn crocheting:

    Hold the Yarn Like a Pro

    For newbies in crocheting, holding a yarn could be quite a tricky job. Even if it only takes some time of getting used to, knowing how hold it properly and skillfully is not to be overlooked.

    Here is how:

    1. Let the yarn pass through your fingers upon holding it. This is how it is done: the little finger, then, beneath the ring finger, then, above the forefinger and the middle finger.

    2. Another way to hold the yarn is to loop in the region of the little finger, and then, make it cross the forefinger.

    3. Upon holding the hook, imagine how you would hold a pencil or a spoon. That’s how it should be held. In that position, it won’t be hard for you to heave the yarn from your fingers down to the loop in the hook.

    As you go along the process of crocheting and you start to get the hang of it, you will learn your unique and most comfortable way of working with the yarn. Don’t be afraid to adopt a new method of holding it. It will help you become more of an efficient crochet craftsperson in the long run.

    Size Matters When it Comes to the Hook and Yarn
    One should not take for granted the skill of identifying the right hook and yarn to use in any crochet project.

    Hooks are identified through different letters and numbers that correspond to certain sizes. In crocheting, the higher the number or letter of the hook, the thicker the hook is. As for yarns, their varieties are identified through names.

    Resizing the Crochet Project Through the Pattern

    To reduce the size of a project, it is as simple as deducting some stitches. One can skip a stitch in a row and continue with the next to reduce the size of the project. To enlarge a project, it is as easy as inserting more stitches in a row. One can easily join two stitches of the same row together. This will make one produce a solo stitch on the next row prior to it.

    Reading a Pattern Like a Book

    What can complicate the activities of one that is engaged in crocheting are the abbreviations on a pattern. The use of memory and logic can help a lot in surmounting this little crocheting obstacle. The outcome of being able to memorize these important abbreviations is a much faster pace in crocheting and more efficient hands.

    1. Crochet patterns and instructions are worked usually in rounds or rows. It will be indicated on the pattern if you are doing or working in rounds, rows or mixture of both.

    2. Crochet patterns and instructions are generally ranked according to difficulty level such as advanced, intermediate, easy or beginner. Choose a pattern with a difficulty level that suits your abilities. Then, increase the level of difficulty as your skill advances.

    3. Count the stitches that you have made as you go on with your work to monitor the stitches needed on each round or row as required by the pattern.

    4. Verify your gauge by crocheting a sample of about 4 X 4 inches in the pattern. When your gauge results into a larger size than what is on the pattern, then use a smaller hook; when your gauge is smaller, then use a larger hook.

    When it’s time for you to actually accomplish a crochet project, make sure that you follow the instructions well and you make your patience a bit sturdier than before. Prepare your devices beforehand to ensure the smooth flow of your crocheting endeavor.

    Learn How to Crochet the Easy Way

    Filed under: Articles — admin @ 05:25

    Learn How to Crochet the Easy Way
    Suggested Resource: One of a kind vintage crochet pattern collection



    How to Crochet by patterns

    ps. Looking for vintage sewing patterns? click here!

    There are different methods on how to crochet a particular product. Each method should be according to the type of crochet item that will be made. The patterned diagrams will provide the person the needed instructions and details to proceed in making his crochet. A crochet is hand worked and needs a lot of patience to finish a particular pattern.

    The type of pattern he will use must correspond to his skill level in crocheting. He may not want to attempt doing the tough patterns because they may require great crocheting skills. There are patterns, which have basic diagrams and simple instructions for those beginners in crocheting.

    Here are some simple basic steps for beginners on learning the steps of crochet:

    1. A person must have the right tools and supplies in making a crochet product. There are tools that he can avail cheaply in the market like yarns, knitting needles, crochet hooks, and patterned diagrams. He may also need scissors, size G crochet hook if he chooses to make pompom hats, worsted weight yarns with a variety of colors to choose from, and a yarn needle for doing the stitches.

    2. He may begin with his crocheting by holding the crochet hook with his right hand allowing the forefingers to bend the hook of the loop. He may then make his next step by pulling through the knot on the center of the hook.

    3. He may slide the loop of the hooked thread to create a slipknot on the hook. He must simultaneously repeat the same process in order to create the chained stitches needed to have a quality made crochet product. The thickness of the chains should just be appropriate on the type of product that is being made.

    4. He may perform his next step by bringing back the thread or yarn on the top of the loop making the thread to go around the hook so that it will be double stitched. He may use his forefinger to grab the knot to tighten the chain stitches of the crochet.

    5. He may skip the first double stitched chain to proceed on the knot that is not properly hooked on the knot of the loop. He needs to make sure that the chains do not loosen and the strands should be properly aligned with the other threads. It is much better to have a tighter knot on the chains of the crochet to make the product sturdier.

    6. He may position the hook center to the next hole of the second double stitch chain. After getting through the hole, he may slide the thread passing into the center of the third double stitch chain that will go on the upper part of the loop. He has now created two loops on the double stitch chain. This will make the loops tighter and stronger.

    7. He may return from the first chain bringing back the hook from back to the front and slowly slide the needle to make a knot on the center hole of the first chain. The hook must be carefully pushed through the middle to create a knot from the first loop.

    8. Returning from the third loop, he may create another extra chain stitch to make a reversed counter clockwise loop. This is for the purpose of retaining the knot to support the double stitched chains. He may start from the first step anew to create new chains in a new row and create the similar loops alike from the previous rows.

    9. He can then create a single crochet stitch on the first loop tightening the next loops of the double stitch chains on the previous rows. He must create an exact replica of the loops if possible to ensure that the following double stitch chains will have similar results with the first made loops. He should not forget to make knot ensuring that all stitches will be intact and will be on their proper places.

    To cap the work, he may cut the excess thread and allot at least 6 inches on the last chain stitches for making an extension. These are the only basic steps for beginners, there are much complicated designs that a person may work on once he has mastered the basic crocheting steps.

    Make Fabulous Shawls with Crochet

    Filed under: Articles — admin @ 05:22

    Make Fabulous Shawls with Crochet

    Looking for old country store collectibles? click here!
    Suggested Resource: Learn how to crochet, beginner to advanced



    Crochet Lessons Series

    Crochet is a very interesting hobby. It makes the time spent worthwhile as one can easily observe and admire the outcome of all the effort. It gives so much satisfaction being able to finish one design or pattern.

    It even feels better to be able to come up with items that you can use not only as accessories, but as the main highlight of the outfit. One design that you will simply enjoy making is the shawl.

    Shawls

    The shawl is one of the best companions a woman can find. It is very fashionable. It can be used for a formal event, for an ordinary walk in the mall and very useful in beating the cold season. Any woman must have one in her closet.

    Shawls come in different materials. However, there is one that proves to be the best among the rest. It is definitely the crochet shawl. This crochet shawl has proven to be very much loved by the market that some instituted cottage industries for this specific type of shawl.

    The crochet shawl is so desirable. This is a good buy. This is also a great gift idea for a girl friend. It is certified that any girl, lady or woman will definitely love the shawl.

    Making Your Own Crochet Shawl

    If you plan to get a crochet shawl for yourself, why not keep one in your closet that you personally made?

    A good advantage of crocheting your own shawl is you get to choose the color of the yarn. You do not even have to be limited to one color. You can combine complementary colors or just whatever suits your taste. You can also determine the size. Make it a just fit. Make it extra longer for more flexibility. You can put in tassels for a more classic look.

    Be as innovative as you can be. To have some guide and assistance in making that masterpiece shawl, it is best to get some great crochet patterns.

    Finding Crochet Shawls Patterns

    The Internet is a good source for most anything, even for some ideas to work on a beautiful shawl. It is very easy to find a good pattern for crocheted shawls.

    There are crochet pattern e-books offered in the web. They are very convenient as you can easily print out the pattern and instructions. This dispenses with the need to carry a big craft book when you crochet, especially if you decided to do it outdoors.

    There are web sites online that sell designs and patterns per piece. You can easily browse first through the different selections. You get to preview first the expected outcome of the pattern before purchasing it.

    Another better option is to get that crochet shawl pattern for free! Simply enter the keywords ‘free crochet shawls patters’ in the search engine and you will be given choices for web sites that give such offer. Click on any results and explore.

    Usually, the site you get to choose can also link you to other sites that offer crochet patterns for shawls and for other items. So upon browsing the web site and you failed to find a design that will suit your taste, simply surf to the other links.

    Some Tips in Crocheting

    When you begin with the crochet shawl project, it is best that you do things correctly. Thus after getting the perfect pattern of a very fabulous shawl, go the extra mile. Be particular with the rest of the details in finishing that crochet pattern. Here are some tips to perfect a crochet pattern:

    1. Avoid forcing the hook or putting too much tension when you crochet. The hands should be relaxed. This is to avoid getting the items too stiff or too stubborn to follow the whole pattern.

    2. If you tend to crochet tightly, get a larger hook than what is recommended. Same goes if you tend to crochet loosely. Get a smaller hook than what is recommended.

    3. Stick to the pattern as much as possible, especially for beginners.

    4. Work on the foundation properly. This will determine largely the outcome of your crochet. It is best to continue the pattern with another size of hook if the foundation came too loose or too tight.

    Crocheting your own shawl will definitely be a fulfilling experience for you. So do the crocheting properly. Give it all your attention and heart. Make all resources available to get the best outcome. Crochet shawl patterns are made available so you can make a masterpiece with more convenience.

    Identifying your crochet yarns

    Filed under: Articles — admin @ 05:20

    Identifying the Size of Hook and Yarns

    Looking for old country store collectibles? click here!
    Related Resource: Knitting Essentials - Learn to knit too!



    Crochet Lessons Series

    One of the most important crochet lessons that you must learn is on how to identify the right crochet yarn and hook sizes.

    Keep in mind that the sizes, whether it is for the hook or the yarn, pertains to the breadth and depth of the item. For instance, the dimension of the hook is specified using different letters. It can also be some numbers, while there are cases wherein hook’s size may use both the numbers and the letters.

    In order for you to be able to identify which hook size is appropriate to use, always keep in mind that in crocheting, the higher the letter or number, it simply means that the hook size is getting thicker.

    On the other hand, identifying the heaviness of the yarn is also the same as the thickness of the yarn. But unlike the hook size, the yarn size is indicated by a name.

    Decreasing and Increasing

    In learning crochet lessons, it is also important to learn how to decrease and increase the breadth and depth of the project or pattern.

    If you want to decrease the width a project, deduct some stitches. This can be done by skipping a stitch in a row, and then stitch into the next. On the other hand, in order to increase the thickness, all you have to do is to insert more stitches in a row. This can be done by joining two stitches of the same row together in order to come up with a solo stitch on the next row prior to it.

    Pattern Reading

    It is extremely important for a crochet maker to learn how to read the abbreviations in the pattern. This involves a little time because you have to memorize all of the terms and abbreviations in the pattern.

    Knowing them would simply facilitate your process and would make your work faster. It can be very time consuming if you keep on looking back at your guidelines just to know the meaning of a certain abbreviation.

    The bottom line is that crochet lessons are significant things that every crochet maker should do. Incorporating them into your work would absolutely make your life making different crochets a lot better.

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