Sunday, June 30, 2013

Double-Ended Crochet: July 13 Meeting Preview

Last month everyone got a chance to learn Tunisian basics and this month it's Tunisian with a twist! Or maybe Tunisian that's twice as nice is a better way to describe it. Double-ended crochet is a technique that uses a double-ended crochet hook and two colors of yarn to create a unique reversible crocheted fabric that is wonderfully soft and cushy with a different look to each side.

If you've ever seen double-ended hooks and wondered how they are used, you'll get a chance not only to learn but also to practice your new skills at this month's meeting. We invite all Twin City crocheters to join us Saturday, July 13 from 1pm to 3pm at Prospect Park United Methodist Church.

Carla will give us tips and ticks for working double-end crochet plus provide us with a resource list of patterns, books, and videos - which will be great because finding information about this technique can be a bit challenging! Everyone will then have a chance to practice with a washcloth project where we'll learn the two basic stitches that are absolutely necessary for mastering the technique. To prep for this meeting, you'll will want to brush up on your Tunisian if it's been a while for you.

You will need to bring the following materials to this meeting
  • Two solid colors of smooth worsted-weight yarn - light or medium colors are easiest to work with. Dishcloth cotton such as Sugar n Cream by Lily would work wonderfully for this project but wool or wool/acrylic blend (such as Encore by Plymouth) would alos be a good choice.
  • A double-ended hook, size I (5.5 mm) or J (6.0 mm) - if at all possible. If you aren't able to find a double-ended hook but are interested in this this technique, please come anyway - we'll have a few extra hooks on hand for "loaners". If you do want to purchase one, Clover makes a bamboo double-ended hook - you can find these hooks in many of the local Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft stores or perhaps at your local yarn shop. If you have a Denise Interchangeable Crochet Hook kit, you can assemble a double-ended hook from the kit.
  • Tapestry needle and scissors
One last note: this class is for working flat double-ended; in other words crocheting in rows rather than in the round. The instruction leaflet that comes with the Clover hook illustrates double-ended in the round, which is a more advanced technique - and one which could be a future topic if there is interest.

We hope to see you there!