Sometimes tools like hakpen (knitting needles) and yarn piles may not seem like something that has a lot of potential. Actually when used for knitting, the possibilities are endless. Follow these simple steps to learn how to crochet, and in no time-like a pro-you'll be making sweaters, scarves/scarves, and dinner towels.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Getting to Know Hakpen and Knitting Yarn
Step 1. Get to know the different types of knitting yarn
There are many different types of knitting yarn that you can use. The type of knitting yarn you choose will depend on the type of project you are working on. If this is your first time knitting, it is best to choose the simplest type of yarn, such as plain cotton yarn or soft acrylic yarn. Choose a plain yarn color so that while studying, you can see how stitches are made – patterned knitting yarn will be difficult.
- Soft acrylic knitting yarn: This type of yarn is slightly more expensive than other knitting yarns. This yarn is great for beginners who are learning a new pattern. Try to avoid very cheap knitting yarns when you start making gifts projects, as many cheap yarns are coarse in texture (and who wants a rough scarf?).
- 100% cotton knitting yarn (100% cotton): Cotton knitting yarn is great for making anything that can later be washed frequently (eg dish towels). Cotton type yarn is water absorbent and easy to wash.
- Novelty yarns: This type of knitting yarn has the most variety – as long as the yarns may differ in texture, color, etc. – and are generally the most expensive. Novelty yarn is made of very fine wool so it will produce a sweater or scarf that is very comfortable to wear. Keep in mind that this type of knitting yarn doesn't wash as often as cotton yarn.
Step 2. Look at the yarn label to determine the hook size
These days, almost every knitting yarn has a label telling you what size hook to use. If you don't already have a hook and this is your first time knitting, buy a hook in the size recommended on the label of the yarn you will be using. The size of the hook is expressed in millimeters or fractional numbers in inches.
As a general rule, the thicker the hook, the thicker the thread required
Step 3. Hold the hook in a way that is most comfortable for you
While there is no "right way" to hold a hook for knitting, there are two basic ways to choose depending on which hand is dominant. Holding the hakpen in an inappropriate way can make your hands cramp.
- Use the hook in the Over-the Hook position: Hold the hook so that the handle is in your grip, as you would a pencil. The thumb should be on top of the pen, while the index and remaining fingers grip it.
- Use the hook in the Under the Hook position: Hold the hook like you would a spatula/kape (a tool for caulking) or a knife. The thumb should be under the pen, while the index finger should be placed with the remaining fingers.
Part 2 of 3: Learning Basic Knitting Patterns
Step 1. Create a test swatch
During study, your voltage may fluctuate. Before you start learning a pattern, make a test swatch. Test swatches are practicing a certain type of stitch without trying to make any shapes-you're just practicing how to do the stitch while figuring out how tight or loose you want your stitch to be.
Step 2. Make a chain (chain).
Every knitting project begins with a chain stitch, or in brochure instructions it is usually abbreviated as 'ch'. Practice chain stitch (ch) for about 10 to 15 minutes per day until you're able to hold the threads so they aren't too loose or too tight.
- Make a slip knot around the hook, and wrap the yarn around the hook. To make a live knot, make a knot with your yarn so the tail hangs behind the knot. Guide the hook through the loop under the tail and then back out of the hole. Pulling the tail will tighten the thread around the hook, forming a slip knot.
- Use the thumb and middle finger of your left hand (if you are right handed) to grasp/hold the end of the live knot. Use your left index finger to guide the thread from back to front around the hook grip. Use the hook of the hook to pull the thread through the hole already in the hook-a chain will form. Repeat the same process to make the chain stitch (ch).
Step 3. Make a slip stitch (slip stitch or 'sl st' for short). This stitch is used to connect two jobs, tie stitches, strengthen edges or carry threads into different positions without adding length.
- Make a chain stitch (ch) of six interconnected chains. Then, insert the hook into the first chain you made-it will form a loop. (The first chain is the one furthest from the hook, i.e. the first one you make).
- With the hand you use to move the yarn (not your dominant hand) wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front. At the same time, rotate the hook so that the hook end is pointing at you
- Pull the thread and hook back through the stitch and then through the hole in the hook. This whole is called a slip stitch (sl st).
Step 4. Make a single crochet stitch (single crochet /sc)
Make a new hole through the chain (but not through the existing hole on the hook). So, you currently have two holes in the hook. Pull a new hole of thread through both holes making a single hole. Repeat!
Single crochet is a type of stitch that is relatively tight and will result in a tighter knit material
Step 5. Double crochet
The double crochet (dc) stitch is great for sweaters and scarves because it's a little looser than other stitches (so your sweater will feel more comfortable).
- Make a chain (chain / ch) that are interconnected as many as 15 pieces. Take the yarn with the hook from front to back (yarn over). Slide the hook containing the first two holes, insert it into the 4th chain and pick up the thread again with the hook.
- Gently pull the twine through the chain stitch, bringing the hook through the chain. As a result you will have three holes in the hook.
- Take the thread with the hook and pull it through the first two holes in the hook. Take the thread again and then pull the hook through the last two holes in the hook. Then complete the 'double crochet' that you made. Repeat!
Part 3 of 3: Some Ideas for Advanced Projects
Step 1. Learn how to make a turning chain
The turning chain /tch is especially helpful when you want to change the direction of the stitch.
Step 2. Make a circular crochet. Circular knitting allows you to be creative in making various round objects, such as hats and coasters.
Step 3. Make a crochet square shape
A granny square is a crochet shape that allows your grandmother to complete a quilt in an instant.
Step 4. Make a crochet crochet from scraps of fabric
Do you have old clothes and blankets that are a pity to throw away? Preserve the memories of these items by turning them into rugs!
Step 5. Support the go green movement by knitting your own dish scrubber
Making your own scrubber (scrubber) that can be used continuously will provide a little eco-friendly touch that we must strive for.
Step 6. Know how to knit a doilly
A vintage-inspired placemat will add elegance to any object placed on it, even on a scratched table. Add a subtle touch to your home with this custom base or placemat.
Step 7. What's cuter than a baby wearing a homemade breastplate?
The answer, a baby wearing a breastplate (to hold back the saliva) knit you made.
