Showing posts with label tunisian crochet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tunisian crochet. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

Crochet Hooks - which is best for you?

Crochet Hooks - which is best for you?

Crochet enthusiasts know that the right tools can make all the difference in turning a skein of yarn into a beautiful, handcrafted masterpiece.


Bamboo Hooks - Natural and inexpensive.
  1. Aluminum Hooks: Lightweight and Versatile Aluminum crochet hooks are a popular choice among beginners and seasoned crocheters alike. Known for their lightweight nature, aluminum hooks are easy to handle and allow for extended crafting sessions without hand fatigue. The smooth surface of aluminum facilitates smooth yarn glide, making it an ideal choice for a variety of yarn textures.


  2. Steel Hooks: Precision for Delicate Projects Steel crochet hooks are characterized by their thin and compact design, making them perfect for intricate and delicate projects like lacework and thread crochet. The fine tip enables precise stitches, making it easier to work with thinner yarns. Steel hooks are also durable and can withstand the tension required for these delicate projects.





  1. Wooden Hooks: Warmth and Comfort Wooden crochet hooks are favored for their warm and natural feel. Crafted from materials such as bamboo or hardwoods, they provide a comfortable grip, reducing hand strain during long crafting sessions. Wooden hooks are also known for their ability to maintain a consistent temperature, which can be beneficial when working with temperature-sensitive yarns like wool.




  2. Plastic Hooks: Budget-Friendly and Colorful Plastic crochet hooks are often the go-to choice for budget-conscious crafters. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, offering a cost-effective option for beginners. Although they may lack the weight of other materials, plastic hooks are durable and can handle a range of yarn weights.


Ergonomic hooks have a shaped handle

  1. Ergonomic Hooks: Comfort for Prolonged Crafting Ergonomic crochet hooks are designed with comfort in mind. Typically made from materials like rubber or soft plastics, these hooks feature a comfortable grip that reduces strain on the hands and wrists. They are an excellent choice for individuals with arthritis or those prone to hand fatigue, allowing for extended periods of pain-free crafting.


  2. Tunisian Hooks can be fixed, and look similar to knitting needles!


  3. Tunisian Hooks can also be interchangeable, which means you can change the length of the cord for extra large projects.

  4. Tunisian or Afghan Hooks: Extended Reach and Versatility

  5. Tunisian or Afghan crochet hooks have a longer shaft, allowing crafters to work on larger projects such as blankets or shawls. They can also be interchangeable, meaning they come with a cord that can be screwed into place. Tunisian crochet also combines elements of both crocheting and knitting, opening up a new realm of creative possibilities. Tunisian hooks are for a different style of crochet - for some examples, check out my blog post on Tunisian Crochet Patterns.




Choosing the right crochet hook material is a personal preference, influenced by the type of project, yarn, and individual crafting style. Whether you opt for the lightweight versatility of aluminum, the precision of steel, the warmth of wood, the budget-friendly plastic, the ergonomic comfort, or the extended reach of Tunisian hooks, each material brings its own unique benefits to the table. Experimenting with different materials can add a new dimension to your crochet experience, enhancing both the process and the final result of your creative endeavors.


Until next time; Happy crocheting

Emma

Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Tunisian Pattern Round Up



To celebrate my new Tunsian fingerless gloves - the Jindabyne Fingerless Mittens- I have compiled a list of some of my favourite Tunisian patterns that I have tried, or want to! 


My latest pattern is for Tunisian crochet (fingerless) mittens, that use a combination of stitches, are worked flat and seamed will help take your TC to the next level You can fnd my pattern on Etsy, Ravelry amd LoveCrafts

If you haven't used the technique before - if you can crochet, you can Tunisian crochet! Keep reading to the end of the post for some tips. 

Next - a pattern I have made myself - the Smirr Shawl. This one is also beyond the basics - increases and special stitches - it's probably the most favourite Tunisian piece I have made. It's by Melody Tallon of Artefacts Crochet. Below is my shawl, during progress.


And here is Melody's original shawl.


Double Brim Crochet Hat - another one I have made - the Tunisian knit stitch (or Tks) mimics the knit look, and creates a lovey thick fabric to keep you warm. Sized from newborn to adult.


Since we are coming up to Christmas - the Tunisian Crochet Christmas Tree Pillow is my next pick. The cushion includes colour work, and is a no-sew project!

 


If you like cute- then you will love the Tunisian Watermelon Bag from Blackstone Designs. This would make a sweet Christmas - or anytime- gift! 


A couple of cowls I would like to make:

Twisted Cowl by ACCRochet


Tunisian Concept Cowl by Rafamusa Designs


Tunisian Ribbed Cowl by Hooked by Hazel


Now, if you haven't tried Tunisian crochet before - I think the best way to try it, is by making a washcloth - then you have something useful at the end- make a few and package up with a beautiful soap for a cute handmade Christmas gift. 

I like this one by My Poppet Makes


You will need to get a Tunisian hook - sometimes called an afghan hook or a tricot hook. It's best to size up from what you'd use for 'regular' crochet, as the drape is different. A rigid hook is fine for a small project - like a washcloth, or my gloves, like this Addi one from LoveCrafts (affilate link)



 but if you are planning on going big, I love interchangables - and it may be worth investing in a set! I'm a fan of the knitpro sets (called knitters pride overseas) 

(affiliate link)


These come with a cables, so you can change the length depending on the project.

I hope you enjoyed my round up, and consider giving Tunisian crochet a go!


Happy Crocheting,

.

Emma