reblog

We know the excitement you feel as you begin knitting. You pick up your knitting needles and start knitting whenever you have time. Knit and purl can be called the backbone of knitting as these are the basic knitting stitch types. When you want to advance in your stitches, you carry on with variations of knit and purl. One of the variations is called "Knit two together." In short, you can say k2tog. That is today's topic to explore. Shall we start?

What is K2tog?

As we mentioned above, it's a variation of knit. If you can do the knit stitch, you will so likely be able to k2tog. To achieve this stitch, we have to do exactly the same as its name says.

How to do it?

1. Pick up your premium knitting needles (for ultimate finish), and start with the yarn behind your work.
2. Now insert your right knitting needle through the first two stitches on the left needle from left to right.
3. Then, wrap the yarn around the tip of the right needle.
4. Pull the yarn through both of the stitches simultaneously.
5. Now, drop down both stitches from your left needle.

K2tog is a right-side leaning decrease technique. Wasn't that easy as pie? You can also try purl two together (P2tog). Instead of the knit stitch, you just purl in the same way as we did in k2tog.

When to Apply K2tog?

The k2tog stitch can be used to reduce the number of stitches in a row. For instance, to decrease the number of stitches at the top of a hat, the tip of a mitten, and the toe of a sock, use decreases like k2tog.

Furthermore, k2tog is most frequently used on the left side of clothing because it is a right-leaning decrease. This decrease gives the impression of slanting inward toward the work's center when executed in this manner.

Now that you have acquired a new stitch technique let's put it to some use by making a simple project: A Bandana.

Bandana Pattern

Knitting Accessories:

• Take knitting needles, whichever is handy, from single to double pointed knitting needles.
• Tapestry/Wool needle
• Scissors
• Yarn in your preferred color

Pattern:

Cast On 3 Stitches

Row 1: Knit All Stitches (3 stitches total)

Row 2: Slip 1, Cast On 1, Purl 1, Cast On 1, Purl 1 (5 stitches total)

Row 3: Slip 1, Knit Remaining Stitches (5 stitches total)

Row 4: Slip 1, Purl 1, Cast On 1, Purl 1, Cast On 1, Purl 2 (7 stitches total)

Row 5: Slip 1, Knit Remaining Stitches (7 stitches total)

Row 6: Slip 1, Purl 2, Cast On 1, Purl 1, Cast On 1, Purl 3 (9 stitches total)

Row 7: Slip 1, Knit Remaining Stitches (9 stitches total)

Row 8: Slip 1, Purl 3, Yarn Over, Purl 1, Yarn Over, Purl 4 (11 stitches total)

Row 9: Slip 1, Knit 3, Knit 1, Purl 1, Knit 1, Knit 4 (11 stitches total)

Row 10: Slip 1, Purl 3, Yarn Over, Knit 1, Purl 1, Knit 1, Yarn Over, Purl 4 (13 stitches total)

Row 11: Slip 1, Knit 3, Purl 1, Knit 1 until 5 stitches remain, Purl 1, Knit 4

Row 12: Slip 1, Purl 3, Yarn Over, Purl 1, Knit 1 until 5 stitches remain, Purl 1, Yarn Over, Purl 4

Row 13: Slip 1, Knit 3, Knit 1, Purl 1 until 5 stitches remain, Knit 1, Knit 4

Row 14: Slip 1, Purl 3, Yarn Over, Knit 1, Purl 1 until 5 stitches remain, Knit 1, Yarn Over, Purl 4

(Repeat Rows 11-14 until the top of your triangle is about 18 inches across. If you are using fine/fingering weight yarn, you should have about 95 stitches on your needles. End after completing Row 13.)

Row 15: Slip 1, Purl 3, Yarn Over, Purl 2 Together until 5 stitches remain, Yarn Over, Purl 1, Yarn Over, Purl 2 Together twice, Cast On 35

Row 16: Knit to last 4 stitches, Knit 2 Together twice, Cast On 35

Row 17: Purl all stitches

Row 18: Knit all stitches

Row 19: Purl all stitches

Bind off.

Enjoy your new creation and show it off to your family or friends. If you want to learn more exciting increasing and decreasing techniques, visit the website.

In knitting, cast-on is the method to lay the foundation of the project. Cast-on techniques work with knitting needles and there are many methods, depending on the knitting pattern, project and even the knitter. A less common method but with great effects is to cast on stitches with a crochet hook. This is useful for various purposes and if you have been a crocheter you will find the cast-on with crochet technique come to you naturally. The crochet cast-on makes a neat edge for knitting projects. The stitches mirror most regular bind-off edges. Also, it can be useful when adding stitches in the middle of a project such as a provisional cast—on.

Though you might be comfortable with the cast-on method, learning and exploring new ways helps you expand your knowledge for knitting projects in the future.

To get started, gather your supplies.

• Yarn - For the practice of the crochet cast-on method use any yarn from your stash. But if you want to go ahead with a project, then use the yarn you’ll be working with the same yarn for the project. If you are following a knitting pattern, then you will have information on the yarn fiber and weight.

• Knitting Needles – Work with any knitting needles. If you are planning to work on a swatch knit back and forth then either use a needle from the pair of single-pointed If you are working with circular needles, get hold of one needle tip while you can cast stitches on the tip as well as the cord connecting it. For knitting in the round, if you are working with circulars, cast stitches on the needle tip and transfer them to the connecting cord. If you are working with double-pointed needles, you still need to cast stitches on one tip and then transfer them to the two or three double points used for the circumference. Make sure that the needle size matches the yarn weight.

• Crochet Hook – Similar to the knitting needles, the crochet hook size should match the yarn weight. Also, the crochet hook size must be matching the needle size. Though both tools follow different standard sizes, you can find a common factor in the diameter of the hook or needle. Also, you can choose any single-ended crochet hooks. And, if you own the interchangeable Tunisian crochet hook, you can still go ahead but just don’t attach the cord. If you are a tight knitter or a beginner crocheter, it is better to use a crochet hook one or two sizes larger than the knitting needle. This way the cast-on stitches will have a firm edge that is not too tight.

To help you with how to cast on stitches with a crochet hook, here is a quick tutorial.

Like most cast-on methods in knitting, hold the knitting needle in your left hand. Keep the crochet hook in your right hand. Hold the working yarn in your right hand and create a slip knot loop around the crochet hook.

To cast stitches, bring the yarn over the crochet hook and behind the needle. Pull the yarn through the loop on the hook. Now you will have 1 stitch cast on your knitting needle. You will basically work a chain stitch on the knitting needle.

Repeat the chains as many times as the required cast-on stitches.

Once you have neat cast-on stitches sitting on your knitting needle keep your crochet hook aside.

Turn your project and begin knitting.

Another way to work the cast on with a crochet hook is, to make a chain in the air and then insert the knitting needle tip through the loops.

Crochet Cast on for Provisional Cast-On Stitches

The crochet cast-on is a quick and convenient provisional cast-on method. Provisional means for the time being. It is a sort of temporary cast that can be removed later to work on that section. This is for some designs in a sweater collar or even the sleeves. You can work this method using waste yarn.

Besides the above cast-on techniques, it is handy for knitters to work with crochet hooks. This may soon become your favorite method to cast on stitches. You can also fix many knitting mistakes without unraveling the stitches, pick a dropped stitch easily, bind it off neatly and add a fringe or edge to your projects.

With the Lantern Moon Collection, explore premium ebony wood knitting needles and crochet hooks. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, the tools and accessories are worth their value. Explore the range of knitting needles or interchangeable circular knitting needle sets that serve a wide variety of projects. Similarly, the crochet hook sets work for multiple crochet projects.

Slip 2, Knit 2, Pass Slipped Stitches Over (S2KP) is a decrease technique used in knitting. It creates a centered double decrease, which means it decreases two stitches while maintaining the stitch count and keeps the decrease centered on your work. In knitting, when you working on projects that require shaping, you will come across a wide range of instructions for the way you work with your knitting needles to decrease the count of stitches from the previous row or round. There are many ways to decrease stitches, the most common one is to knit or purl together. Knitting decreases are used for projects such as hats, socks, and sweaters for proper fit and other projects. 

Whether you are working back and forth on a pair of single-pointed or circular needles, both basic knitting techniques work for shaping. These methods also work when working with double-pointed needles or circulars to knit as usual or even the magic loop. This can be little confusing if you have never done it before. In this blog, let’s walk you through both the basic knitting decrease techniques.

Here's how you work the Slip 2, Knit 2, Pass Slipped Stitches Over (S2KP) decrease:

Slip 2 stitches together knitwise: Insert your right needle into the next two stitches on the left needle as if you were going to knit them together, but instead of knitting them, simply slip them together onto the right needle.

Knit 2 stitches together: Insert your right needle into the next two stitches on the left needle and knit them together as a regular knit stitch.

Pass the slipped stitches over: Using the left needle, lift the two slipped stitches on the right needle over the knit stitch you just made. This is similar to binding off, where you pass one stitch over another.

After completing these steps, you will have decreased two stitches and formed a centered double decrease.

It's worth noting that the S2KP decrease is often used in lace patterns to create a decorative decrease that leans to the right. It can be found in various knitting patterns and is a useful technique to have in your knitting repertoire.

Besides this, there are several common techniques used in knitting to reduce the number of stitches and shape the fabric. Here are a few popular knitting decrease techniques:

Knit Two Together (K2tog): This is one of the most basic and commonly used decrease techniques. To work a K2tog decrease, simply insert the right needle into the next two stitches on the left needle as if to knit, then knit them together as a single stitch. This decreases one stitch.

Slip, Slip, Knit (SSK): The SSK decrease creates a left-leaning decrease. To work an SSK, follow these steps: Slip the next stitch as if to knit onto the right needle, slip the following stitch as if to knit onto the right needle, insert the left needle into the front loops of these two slipped stitches, and knit them together through the back loops. This decreases one stitch.

Purl Two Together (P2tog): This decrease technique is similar to the K2tog but is worked on the purl side of the fabric. Insert the right needle into the next two stitches on the left needle as if to purl, then purl them together as a single stitch. This decreases one stitch.

Slip, Slip, Purl (SSP): The SSP decrease creates a left-leaning decrease on the purl side. To work an SSP, follow these steps: Slip the next stitch as if to knit onto the right needle, slip the following stitch as if to knit onto the right needle, insert the left needle into the front loops of these two slipped stitches, and purl them together. This decreases one stitch.

Central Double Decrease (CDD): The CDD decrease creates a centered double decrease that slants to the right. To work a CDD, follow these steps: Slip two stitches together as if to knit, knit the next stitch, then pass the two slipped stitches over the knit stitch. This decreases two stitches.

Slip Slip Knit Pass (SSKP): The SSKP decrease creates a left-leaning double decrease. To work an SSKP, follow these steps: Slip the next two stitches individually as if to knit onto the right needle, insert the left needle into the front loops of these two slipped stitches, knit them together through the back loops, then pass the resulting stitch over the knit stitch. This decreases two stitches.

These decrease techniques can be used in various knitting projects, such as shaping sleeves, necklines, or creating decorative stitch patterns. They provide different slanting effects and help achieve the desired shaping and structure in your knitting.

Choosing the right decrease method depends of your knitting project or the designer who has written the pattern. For advanced knitters, the method is chosen by the level of their knitting skills and the stitch pattern.

For all your knitting projects, explore the Lantern Moon Collection. The range of handcrafted knitting needles, crochet hooks and accessories are made from premium ebony wood with a liquid-silk finish that has an effortless glide for all types of yarn and projects.

Source: https://medium.com/@lanternmoonhandcrafted/learn-to-knit-slip-2-knit-2-pass-slipped-stitches-over-s2kp-954afaca0665

Creating a knitting pattern from scratch requires you to either plan your own design or work according to a designer's instructions. A pattern designer shares instructions on the steps of the method to cast on, stitch patterns and even cast off. Knitting charts are graphical representations of a knitting pattern. They instruct you how to work with your knitting needles and yarn to work out a pattern. Charts can be very useful for visualizing complex stitch patterns, such as lace or colorwork designs. While most beginners begin with reading a knitting pattern with written instructions on tools, gauge and steps; advanced knitters can easily work with a chart.

What is a knitting chart?

A pictorial depiction of a knitting pattern, the chart is basically a rectangle or a square. The stitches are represented in the boxes. Generally, charts are easy to understand but it’s a matter of habit and the knitter’s comfort. Instead of going through instructions for each row, a chart presents a complete picture of the design and pattern. Similar to a written pattern, a chart also has information on yarn, knitting needles, gauge, schematic and more.

If you are a new knitter, here are a few tips on how to read knitting charts:

Look for the legend: A legend is a symbol that indicates a stitch pattern. It will tell you what each symbol in the chart represents. In knitting, every pattern is based on knit and purl stitches and their combinations. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the legend before you start knitting.

Read the chart from right to left: In most cases, knitting charts are read from right to left, just like you would read a book. Do go through the instructions if the pattern somehow is read in a different method. Knitting back and forth will have a different chart than knitting in the round would have. A pattern designer will provide the information if you need to read the chart differently.

Follow the rows: Each row of the chart represents a single row of knitting. Pay close attention to the row numbers at the bottom of the chart to make sure you're on the right row. If you work a knitting pattern back and forth, you will have the row numbers alternating between the left and right sides of the chart. While knitting in the round will have all rows in the same direction.

Watch the symbols: Each symbol on the chart represents a different stitch or color. Follow the legend to know what each symbol means and how to work it. Usually, a pattern designer provides information on the stitches but if it is not provided it is assumed that you have the basic knowledge to work stitches and techniques.

Use the key: Some charts will have a key that shows you which colors to use for each symbol. This is especially important for colorwork charts. In the case of lace knitting patterns too, a key will have a special function in reading and decoding the chart.

Reading the Chart for Knitting Back and Forth

Knitting a project back and forth requires you to turn your work each time you finish a row. This is for both, whether you work with a pair of single-pointed needles or any circular. A knitting chart for this, will have the numbered rows alternate between the left and right-hand sides of the chart.  In some cases, the charts show only the “right” side of a chart and have you work the “wrong” side similar to the instructions.

Reading the Chart in the Round

Like seamless knitting in the round with double-pointed needles or circulars, reading a chart is no different. You have all rows numbered in the same direction. You simply have to work without turning your work and keep reading from left to right.

Reading Lace Charts

Charts for lace knitting patterns are quite different. As the stitch pattern has a different number of techniques in addition to knit and purl stitches, the chart too has a variety of legends to denote the stitch techniques. For knitting decreases to eliminate stitches and yarnovers to restore them some of the boxes on the chart are blacked out or indicated with a different symbol.

Reading Colorwork Charts

Colorwork knitting works with knit and purl stitches with one or many numbers of yarns. Colorwork charts are similar to regular charts. The only difference is that the colors on the chart are designated as the main color (MC), which is usually the one used most in the project, and contrasting colors (CC). Fair Isle or most intarsia knitting, where you will have multiple contrasting colors have symbols like C1 (Color 1), C2, and so on, usually in the order of appearance in the pattern.

Reading knitting charts can be a little intimidating at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Just take your time, follow the symbols and legend, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck. For all your knitting and even crochet needs, explore the Lantern Moon Collection. The premium knitting needles and crochet hooks are made from precious ebony wood. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, each tool and accessory guarantees a smooth crafting experience.

Source: https://www.zupyak.com/p/3648608/t/how-to-read-a-knitting-chart

Shawls and wraps are perfect spring accessories. You can knit or crochet them with the right knitting needles or crochet hooks. Crocheting a shawl is right for the spring season. With your regular crochet hooks and yarn, you can create a wonderful project. Whether you have a single-ended crochet hook or interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks, you can go ahead with the shawl project. For yarn, you can use your stash or get a single skein of yarn in your favorite color or fiber. Crochet shawls are perfect for the spring weather to keep you warm when there is a slight chill in the air.

Before you get started with your project, first gather your supplies.

Pattern – You can also go ahead with any crochet shawl pattern or experiment with your own design. A pattern will guide you through the steps on making the shawl along with the crochet hook sizes, yarn, and gauge. You can easily plan your own with any crochet hook size, yarn, and gauge swatch. Also do note the measurements of the shawl pattern you would like to crochet.

Yarn - If you have been a yarn crafter for years, you’ll have enough scrap yarns to construct a shawl. Make sure to use a similar weight and fiber. If you want to go ahead with a new skein from your favorite LYS in a shade or fiber you prefer.

Crochet Hooks – For crocheting a shawl, the most important thing is to choose the right crochet hook size. You can work with any single-ended crochet hook in any material as long as you are comfortable working with it. The Tunisian crochet hooks with interchangeable cords can be used for the Tunisian craft or can be used for regular crochet too if you do not attach the cord. The crochet hook sizes depend on the yarn weight or the gauge you want to achieve. If you want an open weave work with a crochet hook size smaller than the number mentioned on the yarn label.

1. Fade Color Shawl

Spring is a season of vibrant colors and your shawl can carry a palate. If you do not want stark contrast a fade definitely works and adds to the beauty. For the shade, you can work in a rectangular design or work from the corner. C2C crochet is an interesting technique that you can give a try. Leaves or other motifs can also be added for the shawl project. If you are new to C2C, it is recommended to work with a pattern.

How to knit a rectangular fade shawl

Step 1 – Chain stitches (30 -50) as long as the width of shawl

Step 2- Double crochet or Treble crochet (as per as your requirement) in one particular shade of yarn. Chain 3 or 4 for the turning chain.

Step 3 – Continue with DC or TR with the same shade of yarn for 3-4 rows.

Step 4 – Change colors for a fade effect.

Step 5- Continue with the crochet stitches, introducing a new shade of yarn after 3-5 rows for a fade effect.

2. Triangular Shawl

The classic triangle shawl shape can be worked with any crochet hook in rows with increases back and forth. You start working from one end and then shape the middle and then get to the other end.

How to knit a triangular shawl

Step 1 Chain 4, sl st to first chain.

Step 2 - Row 1: Chain 3, turn. Work 3 double crochet. Chain 2, work 3 DC into the circle made by the starting chain.

Row 2 - 47: Chain 3, turn, work 3 double crochet into first stitch. Double crochet in each stitch until you reach the chain 2 space. Double crochet (dc) in each stitch remaining except the last stitch. 3 dc in the last stitch.

Continue repeating Row 2 until you reach your desired shawl size. Once your shawl is big enough for you, fasten off. The number of rows you work will greatly depend on how thick your yarn is. Weave in all your ends.

3. Shawl with Lace edges

Lace gives a soft and elegant look to any pattern or project. Crocheting lace is an art. If you do not want the entire project to be lace, you can opt for a lace edge. You can crochet a lace-like look with the same crochet hook. Choosing a different yarn shade or weight can also create a different look.

How to Knit a Shawl with Lace Edges

Step 1- Chain stitches as many as the width of the project.

Step 2 – Use any crochet stitch – Half double crochet, Double Crochet or Treble crochet stitches for the shawl.

Step 3 – Once you are finished with the shawl you can work the lace edges.

Step 4 – Insert the crochet hook into one stitch in the corner. Make a foundation of single crochet stitches all around the shawl.

Step 5 – For the lace edge, chain 5-7 stitches, slip stitch (sl st) 2 stitches and then single crochet.

Step 6 – Continue with a row or 2-5 for the length of the lace effect.

With these 3 easy crochet shawls, get ready for spring crafting! Explore premium crochet hooks made from ebony wood from the Lantern Moon collection.

Bags are trendy accessories, perfect for adding to your fashion statement. For crocheters, crocheting bags are a handy skill. You can make one with your regular crochet hooks and any yarn. Single-ended crochet hooks can help you make crocheted fabric that you can fashion into any shape or design. Also with the Tunisian crochet hooks with interchangeable cords, you can attempt the beautiful Tunisian crochet or use the hooks for regular crocheting by simplifying not attaching the cord. If you are into clearing off your stash, bags are interesting projects. Use scraps to make a pretty colorful bag. 

Crocheting a bag is a perfect warm-weather project. When you think of unique handmade gifts, they easily make a favored choice. And, the best part of this project is that you’ll find options for backpacks, market bags, totes, zipper pouches, crossbody bags, and more!

Here’s a basic tutorial on how to crochet a bag.

Step 1: Imagine what kind of bag you would like to have

You can crochet any bag in any shape, size, and length. So, first, decide what is that you would like to make. When designing your new bag, start with the width and length measurements you want. Explore the patterns according to your skill level. If it's a laptop or tote bag, you can measure an existing bag or measure a similar bag to get the basic measurements and shape. Remember that yarn stretches so even the exact measurement may have a different look.

Step 2: Choose your yarn

Wool, cotton, acrylic blends and pretty much anything works for your crochet bag project. Stashbusting is a good option here as you get lots of colors, fibers and more. Even if you have two different yarn weights then combine them for a unique look.

Step 3: Choose your crochet hook

Choose a comfortable crochet hook. Make sure to match it with the yarn. The rule of thumb is bigger stitches can be made with a bigger hook and smaller yarn is best with smaller sizes. But, you can experiment with the look by changing the hook or yarn. Besides the crochet hooks, make sure to be prepared with stitch markers, finishing needles, a repair hook, measuring tape, and other accessories.

Step 4: Make a test swatch

Crocheting a gauge swatch is the next step once you have planned out your project, yarn, and hook. Make a 6-inch square with the yarn and hook it with any of the crochet stitches you are planning for the project. This swatch will give an idea of how the fabric will look, and the quantity of yarn required and help you plan your own design.

Step 5: Start Crochteing

Single crochet (SC) stitch is one of the basics of the craft. The stitch makes a solid fabric that works well for a bag project. if it feels too simple for you, try the reverse single crochet (RSC) stitch. Half double crochet (HDC) stitch creates a little more open fabric as does double crochet (DC) stitch. Treble crochet stitches are the most open weave of all. You can use textured stitches if you have practice with them or attempt with the swatch.

Start with a chain of stitches for the bottom of the bag or use a chainless foundation stitch. Go from bottom to top. You can also make it top to bottom or crochet fabric in squares or rectangles or other shapes and bring them together with a finishing needle

Once you have the required measurements and dimensions you can use embellishments. Use buttons or straps and a lining (if needed).

With these steps, you can easily crochet everyday bags. 

Some easy options are:

Backpack

Crochet in the round starting from the bottom or make a big tubular fabric and attach the bottom. To close the backpack use a drawstring or a button with a flap. Any of the crochet stitches will lend themselves to creating a sturdy and beautiful fabric.

Circular Hippie Bag

Simply crochet up two identical circles to form the body of this bag. Then, add a strap and tassels or even pom poms for a bit of a hippie flair! You can start the circle with a magic ring with no hole in the middle or start with a chain and then make it a circle. Seam the two circles to fashion out a bag.

Granny Square Bag

If you are a fan of granny squares, then this project is surely for you. It can turn any project into a colorful, creative masterpiece! You can easily craft on the go and make a colorful granny square. You will be needing around 20 - 25 squares for a big bag while a small clutch can be designed in 6-8. Once you have the squares ready use the slip stitch to join them together for the project.

Once you learn to crochet, that is the basic crochet stitches and a few techniques you can begin with many patterns and projects. Just with your crochet hooks, single-ended or Tunisian, and the right yarn to match, you are ready. Starting from garments such as a scarf to home décor such as rugs or blankets, a whole lot of possibilities open up. Rag rugs are crochet projects that do not ever go out of fashion. They are not only stylish but can be very economical as well and helps you with some creative masterpieces. Unlike every crochet project, you don’t have to head to your favorite LYS or go through your stash, you can create the yarn with rugged t-shirts, bed sheets, towels, etc. that you don’t use anymore. And the best part of all is you don’t even need a pattern to make one.

So, let’s get started with the steps on how to crochet a rug.

First Gather Your Materials

Yarn – The rug yarn can be basically fashioned with anything linen that you own. You can also check out yarn stores for many do carry heavy-weight yarns that can replace your rugged fabrics. A chunky, t-shirt and super bulky yarns work well. In the case of making your own, there is no way you could find a continuous length of fabric. Joining different pieces of fabric in different colors adds to the appeal of the project but the knots give an ugly look. Instead, while joining the yarn used a needle with a sharp tip and stitch them together, foregoing any lumps in the yarn.

Crochet Hook - Single-ended crochet hooks in the right size if you are planning a regular pattern. For the hook size, you can make a gauge swatch. As you will be using rug yarn instead of the yarn that comes with the label mentioning the hook size. If the crocheted fabric looks like the one you desired or works smoothly then stick to the size. Generally, 5mm (H), 5.5 (I) and 6 (J) hooks work for the rug project. The Tunisian crochet hooks work best for a Tunisian crocheted fabric but you can also use it for regular crochet if you use the hook without attaching the interchangeable cord.

Accessories & Notions – Yarn crafts work smoothly with the right accessories and notions. Carry stitch markers, finishing needles, tape measures and more.

Making Crochet Rugs

You can crochet a rug in any shape. Round and flat rectangular rugs are common and easily made. The project can be either started with a magic circle, an adjustable loop that does not leave a hole in the middle. Or, you can start with a foundation chain and then work stitches into it. The shaping can be done with crochet increase and decrease techniques. You can also make it in the shape of a star or any other you wish.

For a rug, you use any crochet stitch while single crochet is preferred for its dense constitution. You can also try half double crochet and double crochet and even slip stitches that form a fabric known as Bosnian crochet. You can also use regular Tunisian crochet stitches for a knit-like look.

Flat Crocheted Rag Rug

The single crochet stitch works best for a rug if you want it dense and stiff. Or, the half-double crochet stitch is the next best option. Use any yarn weight and the single-ended crochet hook size matching the yarn. You can crochet the rug in a square, rectangle round or oval by starting regularly with a foundation chain. For changing colors just follow the rules on any regular crochet project. For a neat edge, you can use reverse single crochet stitch (RSC) also known as the crab stitch. The reverse single crochet stitch follows the same rule as a single crochet stitch in the opposite direction. Or, you can make frills for the edges.

Round Rag Rug

This project is another single crochet rag rug, but this one is worked in the round to create a rug with a more organic shape. You can use any basic crochet circle pattern to make your own version. Just start with a magic loop or make some chain stitches and join them together with a slip stitch. Both methods work in their own way. The magic circle leaves no hole behind but the chain stitch round has a hole in the middle.

Tunisian crochet rug

Tunisian crochet stitches are made with a special Tunisian crochet hook that comes with an interchangeable cord. The unique crochet works like knitting. Stitches are picked on the hook and worked into. The stitches work in two rows, one where your make loops on the hook and the second where you work the loops. While Tunisian craft has a wide range, the Tunisian simple stitch is the best.

So, get ready to crochet a rug in easy steps. Lantern Moon’s handcrafted ebony wood crochet hooks and accessories assist you in your projects letting you have fun while you express your creativity.

Crocheted decorations add that personal touch to your Christmas décor and also make wonderful handmade gifts always have. If you are thinking you don’t have enough time; don’t worry just get your crochet hooks, yarn and some accessories. In this blog, we’ll take you through 5 quick crochet decorations for this holiday season. Before you begin make sure that you know the basic crochet stitches, increases and decreases, magic circle or to crochet in the round. You can crochet these decorations in a few hours or even a few days.

Before you sit down, gather your supplies.

Materials for Crochet Ornaments

Yarn: The yarn weight, color, and fiber depend on the decoration you would love to make. You can also do with scraps left from previous projects. Just make sure you have the right color and weight. Christmassy colors such as white, red, green, and golden look beautiful

Crochet Hook: You can go ahead with your regular crochet hook or even a Tunisian crochet hook. Just don’t attach the interchangeable cords and they can be used as regular hooks. The crochet hook size depends on the yarn weight. A crochet pattern will provide all the information. They make even ask to use two sizes of crochet hooks for different parts of the ornament.

Other Notions: Knitting accessories are a part of the supplies needed for making ornaments such finishing needles, scissors, stitch markers, measuring tape, etc.

So, let’s get started.

Crochet abbreviations

ST - SCH – chain

SC – Single crochet

HDC – Half double crochet

DC – Double Crochet

1. Snowflake Coaster

Snowflakes are beautiful. You can crochet one with chunky weight yarn or even lace weight or any yarn you prefer. Such is the beauty and ease that you can make one in less than 30 minutes including weaving in the yarn ends. You can make a snowflake pattern for decorating your Christmas tree, wrap up your gift or even make coasters or table décor to set up the dining table.

Start with Magic Circle or work a chain to form the inner circle. Proceed like you generally make a granny square. For the coaster stick to the single crochet stitch for a tight fabric. As you choose stitches like double or treble crochet, the fabric will have an open weave perfect for lace designs. Lace snowflakes will look beautiful decorated on the Christmas trees.

2. Christmas Star

The ideal Christmas decoration, stars can be crocheted quite easily. If you are confident in making Granny Squares, you can easily make a star shape. The working is almost similar to the square but you need to make the point tips for the stars. This too can work in different weight yarns. Lace stars to tightly crocheted stars, the options are endless.

For this pattern too, start with a magic circle or a chain which you connect with a slip stitch. A pattern will guide you but you can plan your own design. Do not stop at one or two, make five or six stars and string them in a bunting. It would be lovely way to decorate your home. Colourful stars in a bunting look beautiful. If you have a baby at home, they would love it.

3. Stockings

What is Christmas without stockings? While traditionally stockings are knitted you can easily crochet one. The stockings can be made in any size with any weight of yarn. While knitters may slightly disagree crochet stocking stitch up rather quickly. It is similar to making socks but you have a longer leg length and no need to properly shape the toes. In fact keep the toes wide like the foot so that you can keep some goodies for kids.

For stockings start with a magic loop for a no-hole crocheted fabric. Like a toe up socks, proceed with the pattern. Single crochet stitches in the round for the foot till the heel. Shape the heel in parts. You can seam this area with your finishing needle while working on the project or after you have completed till the cuff. Crochet with colors for a striped design or create some snowflakes or reindeer or Santa face. If bigger sizes take time or if you are short of yarn make mini stockings with your crochet hooks.

4. Wreath

A must-have decoration to celebrate Christmas, a wreath can be easily crocheted or knit. Make sure to have a base first. Single crochet stitches can be worked around in different colors. You can add flowers, frills or designs. Add some mistletoes to give it a traditional look.

5. Christmas Balls or Baubles

If you can confidently crochet in the round, balls and baubles are easy to make. Add some stuffing or just go in rounds.

Besides the above you can crochet bells, Santa face, gnomes, elfs, mini hats and so much more to decorate your homes. Make sure to work with premium crochet hooks and accessories to enjoy your craft and have neat projects in hand.

Wish You a Merry Christmas

After learning to knit and purl, the next step is to learn how to read your knitting. Knitting is a language of love and creativity you write with your knitting needles. Reading your knitting is the ability to understand and identify stitches the stitches you’re working on; understand what you’ve already done; know where you’re going next; find mistakes and know how to fix them. With knitting for years, you will be able to understand your knitting, but it is best if you start at the beginning, when you are learning the threads of the craft. Whether you use single-pointed knitting needles or circular to knit flat, the way to read your knitting is the same. Similarly, whether you knit in a circle with double-pointed or versatile circular knitting needles, you again have to follow the same steps.

So, here are 3 easy steps for learning how to read your knitting.

1. Knit Stitch vs Purl Stitch

The knit stitch and the purl stitch are the basic stitches of a knitting pattern. The difference of making the stitch is in knit you have the working yarn behind your needles and in purl the working yarn is in front of the needle. Both knit and purl in a way are the exact same stitch worked on opposite sides of the fabric. The front side of a knit stitch is the same as the back side of a purl stitch and vice versa.

A knit stitch looks like a ‘V’ at its base and a purl stitch looks like an upside-down ‘U’.

2. The basic structure of the knitted fabric

All kinds of knitted fabric comprise knit and purl stitches. But sometimes besides reading your stitches you need to understand the fabric. Garter Stitch (all knit stitches on all rows) and Stockinette is a pattern of alternative rows of knit and purl stitches. After you have had the practice with these basic knitted fabrics, you’ll move on to textured stitches such as seed, basketweave, etc. The process of identifying stitches and the structure gets easier with time and practice. This helps in fixing knitting mistakes. For instance, you might have to face the situation of fixing a dropped stitch and understanding your stitched fabric helps in correcting your mistake.

3. How stitches sit on the knitting needle

When you knit, you make the stitches sit on the knitting needle. This is for all kinds of knitting techniques and all needles. However, it is very important to keep this in mind when knitting with double-pointed needles and joining the round. Understanding how to make stitches sit helps in understanding your knitting. Imagine the stitch on your knitting needle has legs and looks like someone mounted on horseback. It will have one leg in the direction of the pointy tip of the knitting needle on the front side of the fabric and another on the backside of the project. As the stitch is currently seated on the needle the right leg must be at the front of the needle and the left leg is at the back of the needle. The stitches should face this way regardless of whether you’ve done a row of knit or a purl. Any twist or anyway if the stitch is not sitting right, means you have made a mistake.

This understanding of how the stitches sit will help you with avoiding any dropped stitches and correct your tension if needed. It will also help in the situation when a pattern asks you to do a slip stitch knit-wise or purl-wise.

source by- https://www.zupyak.com/p/3329737/t/how-to-read-your-knitting-in-3-easy-steps