| HOW TO READ
CROCHET PATTERNS:
ch = chain
dec = decrease # indicated
dc = double chain (1 over hook , plus 1 already on hook)
dtc = double treble (3 over hook, plus 1 already on hook)
hdc = half double (dc completed ½ way thru)
inc = increase # indicated
rw = reverse work (bi-directional crochet)
sc = single chain (0 over hook to start)
sk = skip # of stitches indicated
sl st = slip stitch or 1chain thru the piece
tc = treble stitch (2 over hook to start)
( ) = instructions between parenthesis or brackets should be repeated
# of times indicated such as "(dc, ch 2, skip 2) 3 times" or
"...to end of row"
Gauge is the most challenging part of Crochet. It will vary according
to your hook size, thread size, and how loosely or tightly you work. Gauge
is both horizontal and vertical, the horizontal being the most important.
Pattern directions give you an idea what size the pattern maker intended
. You must check against your own work if the gauge matters by producing
a test piece of about 4 inches square. (Or make a handcover!) You might
have to use different hooks or thread depending upon your style. Use any
size hook which fits the thread comfortably to achieve the desired gauge.
Hooks come in different size measurements depending upon whether they
are steel, aluminum or other materials. Steel needles also have slightly
larger heads.
*insert hook sizes
Crochet may be worked bi-directional or circular.
To begin a project:
1)Bi-Directional: a) attach to something or b) start by making a chain
of the appropriate length and then reversing and working back into the
chain.
2)Circular: a) attach to something or b) start by chaining 4-6, joining
and then working into the circle.
Attaching beads or coins:
Beads will always show on the BACK of where you are working, thus the
"back" will be the finished side. This is why it's nice to work
circular with beads. If you work bi-directional you will need a non-beaded
row in between.
Beads & coins are usually pre-fed onto the string the only limitation
is whether they will fit on the string:
(The smaller the number the larger the thread or bead)
#10,#11 beads will fit on #8 pearl cotton, #20 DMC thread, or #3 nylon
thread
#8, #6 beads will fit on #10 cotton threads
If they are on stringed hanks you can usually slipknot them onto your
thread and slide them. If not, you must use a needle and thread to get
them strung.
It is not tragic if you have to cut the thread to add beads or coins and
start again. There is also no penalty for putting on extra beads to be
sure if you are not doing a pattern.
If you're working with coins be sure to keep them grouped closely together
and laid out on a pillow or tray. If you pick them up and they spin you
may never untangle them.
Take Breaks! Tensing up your shoulders and hands for long period of time
is not healthy. Remember to stretch and take breaks often. After all,
this is supposed to be fun!
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