Crochet Extra – June 2021

Today not only marks the start of winter, but it is also the day that Stage 2 of the Crochet Tournament begins.  There were some fabulous cowls made both in the beginner and intermediate streams and I look forward to seeing the results from Stage 2.  If you haven’t already done so, pop over to the facebook group and take a look.

Many will know that we have been having difficulty sourcing babylo and Petra.  This is partly due to reduced flights from Europe but also due to the distributors changing in Australia.  The new distributor has discovered stocks of a number of colours that were discontinued – so for a limited time we have some of these available again – all noted with a D on the colour chart. They have also changed their procedures meaning it will take us longer to bring in stock.  If you need large quantities of these, please let us know in advance to allow us time to get these in.

Have you signed up for our workshop in June? This month we will be learning mosaic crochet and crocheting a scarf designed by Susan Lowman – instore (Tuesday mornings or Wednesday evenings) or online (Monday evenings or Thursday mornings).

We also have our workshop schedule up to December planned.  You can see these in our events calendar or in the product category ‘Crochet Workshops‘  These include learning new techniques – tunisian in the round and bavarian crochet – making a christmas wreath and using thread.  These can also be attended via Zoom Monday evenings or Thursday mornings.

The retreat bookings have been coming in fast.  We have sold out the deluxe rooms – so if you are thinking of coming but haven’t yet booked, don’t delay or you may miss out.

Happy Crafting.

Until next time

Lynda

Theme— Afghans

Now the cooler months are here it is the perfect time to start a beautiful afghan or blanket to get you through the cooler weeks to come. (or in my case pick up the one I started last winter and continue with it….)

The word “Afghan” first appeared in English usage in the late 1700’s as a name for the people of Afghanistan. That country is known for its distinctive textiles, colourful carpets and lustrous karakul wool, so it’s sort of logical that “afghan” was later picked up to refer to the colourful knitted or crocheted blankets. (source Greenprophet.com)

There are many styles of afghans:

• Single-piece afghans – the simplest style to make and are especially popular with beginners.
• Mile-a-minuteafghans – made in a multiple of separate strips, with a minimum of stitches per strip, and then the strips are joined together.
• Motifafghans – composed of many small motifs, squares, or blocks, such as a granny square. These motifs may be all the same design or of different designs. Some favour the motif style because of its portability and versatility of design. The motifs can then be joined once they are completed by sewing or crocheting them together, or using join-as-you crochet techniques.
• A graphghan– made by following a flat chart. This method uses a grid of coloured squares to create a visual design. There are three main methods to making a graphghan: pixel crochet, corner-to-corner crochet, and tapestry crochet.

If you are stuck for an idea on what pattern to use then take a look at our extensive range of pattern books….we have something to cover all of these different styles.

The beauty of making an afghan is the choice of yarn available.  You can choose the fibre and content and thickness to suit your very own needs.  Even though most patterns will be designed for a particular thickness of yarn, you can generally substitute something else to fit your circumstances.  We have a great range of yarns to get that perfect finish. From Wool, Wool blends, Non-pilling Acrylic yarn, Cottons and Cotton Blends.   A favourite yarn that many use for an afghan is the Fiddlesticks Superb 8 Acrylic yarn. It’s non-pilling and comes in a wide range of colours along with being super soft and warm, and makes for a very economical blanket.

If you would like an effortless display of colour and something light then I highly recommend the Scheepjes Whirl. These cotton cakes come in a beautiful range of colours and ombres and when crocheted or knitted are so soft and the drape is amazing. There is also the whirlettes if you need just that bit more of one colour to finish your project.

If it’s an afghan for the kids or you are looking to create a funky throw then add a touch of fun and texture with some pom poms or tassels. We have a great range of tools in store to help you make both in all different sizes.

Afghans make the perfect home décor piece. Give them as a gift to comfort a loved one of any age or keep for yourself to snuggle up in. They will often become a family heirloom to be passed down through the generations. They are a great way to play with new stitches and colours.  Why not try a mitred square blanket by Crochet Kingdom to create an interesting visual effect.

Look What We Found