If you know how to crochet, it means you know the basics of tapestry knitting. Tapestry crochet is made using ordinary knitting stitches but by adding more than one color of yarn to make it easier to create cheerful colorful patterns. This additional color carries with you as you knit, hidden within the stitches, until you want to change colors. By following these steps, you'll be able to create knitting projects with a colorful finish, perhaps even making others think the piece was painstakingly woven, not knitted.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Getting Started Knitting
Step 1. Create a pattern to work with
Many patterns for tapestry crochet are available online, but you can also make your own. Using graph paper or checkered paper, make a simple two-color pattern using only one color in each square. It's best to start with a less complicated pattern, maybe you can use a second color with less amount.
- If you're using a regular crochet pattern, you should be able to read the pattern. Look for guidelines for abbreviations used in knitting patterns online, such as those found on the Craft Yarn Council website or read the article How to Read Knitting Patterns.
- You can also use a crochet pattern as inspiration for your tapestry crochet pattern.
Step 2. Choose yarn for your knitting project
Although many different types of yarn can be used for tapestry knitting, consider the look you want the final result to look like when choosing yarn. If you want a tight and thin work, then you will use a smaller size and less hairy yarn, for example a “fine” or “light worsted” yarn. If you want a larger, looser finish, use a thicker, more fluffy yarn. You are free to choose!
You will also need to have a hook that matches the size of the yarn and the final look you want. For example, thin threads are usually knitted using relatively thin hooks, while thicker threads are knitted using thicker hooks. However, if you are a skilled knitter and you want to create a unique style for your knitting project, choose whatever yarn and hook combination you want
Step 3. Knit the basic chain using the main color (hereinafter referred to as color 1)
Follow the first line on your pattern.
- If using a pattern drawn on checkered paper, you will need to make one stitch for each square in your pattern, so make sure the number of stitches you make matches the number of squares.
- If you need to refresh your memory about basic stitches in knitting, read the articles How to Knit or How to Make a Single Stitch and take some time to practice making stitches.
Step 4. Knit the second row, as you work hook each stitch to the base stitch
Use a single crochet stitch in the hole under the top two loops of the base stitch you're working on. Knit by threading the hook, from front to back, into the hole under the top loop, not by inserting the hook into only one of the holes in the top loop. This eliminates the thread lines that will form if the hook is inserted into only one of the holes in the top loop. This stitch also produces a tight, woven look.
Part 2 of 3: Knitting Second Color Yarn
Step 1. Knit your second color (hereinafter referred to as color 2)
Work on your second color (from now on we will call it Color 2). You will need to thread this second color of yarn at least a few inches before you start your tapestry crochet pattern.
- Place the second end of the yarn horizontally along the top edge of your knitting, then hold it with the hand that's not holding the hook.
- Knit the next few stitches as usual, keeping the second thread at the top of the row, inside your stitch. You shouldn't be able to see the second thread if it's in this position. This method is considered to be able to hide or carry unused yarn and give good results in your final work, including making it stronger and preventing annoying and unsightly threads from sticking out on the back of your knitting.
- Some people knit a second yarn starting from the second row. This is to ensure that the thickness of your entire knitting project stays the same and ensures that the second color is linked there when you need it.
Step 2. Begin your tapestry crochet using color 2
Suspend the single stitch on color 1. Do not finish the single stitch. With the two loops of the single stitch fixed on the hook, remove color 1 and keep carrying it along the next stitch, simultaneously bringing color 2 with the hook pulling through the two existing loops.
Step 3. Make a single crochet under the top two loops using color 2 for as many stitches as desired
When creating this stitch of color 2, color 1 will still be drawn and hidden within the stitch color 2 that you worked on earlier.
Step 4. Switch back to color 1 according to the pattern instructions
The method of returning the yarn to color 1 is the same as what you used to change it to color 2.
- Take it off and take the yarn in a color you don't need. Two loops in each single crochet should stay on your hook. The hidden yarn will still lie flat around your knitting work.
- Pick up color 1 using the hook, then pull it through the two loops on your hook.
Part 3 of 3: Finishing the Knitting
Step 1. Knit the rest of your pattern, changing the yarn color as instructed on the pattern
Make sure the stitch you make fits into the squares in the pattern.
Crossing out lines you've already completed may help to avoid losing the line paths you've been working on
Step 2. Give a simple or decorative edge to the knitting edge
You can only knot the yarn at the end of the last row, but there are variations of stitches you can use to finish knitting, and simple quilt stitches you can use.
If you only want to make a knot of yarn, cut the yarn a few inches after your last stitch with the hook in the last loop. Pull the last thread through the loop and tie it in a knot. Then tuck the remaining end of the thread into the last row of your stitch with the needle, hiding the rest of the thread from view
Step 3. Enjoy your creations
If your piece has multiple sections, connect the sections and trim the remaining ends of the thread. Keep in mind that your tapestry crochet may require special care when washed, as each yarn requires a specific treatment.
