How to Crochet

Crocheting is one of the oldest needlework arts. Its name is derived from the French word "croche" meaning a hook. Even a novice can crochet intricate laces and designs for tablecloths, doilies, scarves and other household furnishings, as well as various fashion items. Crochet is easily mastered; only two items are essential-a crochet hook and thread or yarn. All crochet designs are variations of a few basic crochet stitches.

Abbreviations Used in Crochet Ch chain St(s) stitch(es) SI st slip stitch Sk skip Sp space BL block Lp loop P picot Inc increase Dec decrease Sc single crochet Dc double crochet Hdc or sdc half or single double crochet Tr treble Dtr double treble Tr tr triple treble Pc st popcorn stitch Lp st loop stitch An asterisk (*) means that the directions immediately following are to be repeated the given number of times in addition to the ones already given. Thus "repeat from * 3 times" means 4 patterns in all. Instead of using the asterisk, directions may appear in parentheses, such as (ch 8, sk 2 sts, sc in next st) 4 times.