Lifestyle
G rab your hook and start stitching your way to success. After all, there’s no better time to do it than right now – it’s National Crochet Month.
Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or you're just picking up the hook for the first time, we’ve collated all you need to know to get creating. We’re already hooked!
TOPTIP: Yourslipknot shouldbeloose enoughthatyou can wiggleyour hook inside,but nottoo loose!
GETTING STARTED
Picking up the hook for the first time can be a little daunting, let alone making your very first stitch. But luckily, Nicola from The Secret Crocheter is here to show you the basics.
You can even scan her handy QR code to watch her tutorials in your own time, too.
• For more information, please follow @the_secret_crocheter on Instagram and visit: thesecretcrocheter.com
HOW TO: Make a chain stitch
1. Start by holding the hook like you would a pen or a pencil.
2. Tie a slip knot. Then, slide your slip knot onto the hook.
3. Put your hand flat and lay the yarn on top of your little finger. You want the hook to be near your second finger (ring finger).
4. Close your fist.
5. Turn your hand over, keeping your fist closed, too.
6. Come underneath the yarn and pinch the slip knot.
7. Raise your middle finger.
8. Scoop up the yarn with your hook.
9. Pull it through the loop on your hook.
10. That’s one chain complete – now, repeat.
11. Your finished chain will look like this.
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IN STITCHES
S titch in time with your friends, all while slurping on a cuppa, at one of these nifty in-person crochet workshops.
There’s nothing better than sharing your creations with other crocheters – and maybe learning a nugget of useful information from them, too.
For an afternoon of crochet creativity, snuggle up with Nicola and the gang in her very own Crochet Cabin in
Melksham, Wiltshire.
And the best part is, you only need to bring your own hook along – as well as yourself.
On arrival, Nicola will prepare you for an afternoon of fun, providing you with all the essentials – yarn, a cuppa and of course, a biccie, too.
Then, settle down and learn how to crochet something new. From a woven basket, to gloves, granny squares, hanging plant baskets and even stool covers, you’ll soon find yourself saving pennies by making your own homemade clothes and decor
