BLOG SERIES: For the Beginner Crocheter- Part 1

So, here we go with detailing the supplies needed and explaining about basic abbreviations used.

The supplies are really simple. One must always start with yarn and a hook; because, each pattern requires a different size hook.  It is best to just purchase a basic hook kit which will consist of hook sizes (F; G; H; I; and K).  I have one that goes from D to K and is in a case.

They now sell Light-Up crochet hook that help with difficult to see your stitches that are made with dark yarns, even in a well-lit environment.

There are different weights of yarn and types. I usually use “Red Heart” or “Lion Brand”; because, that is what I grow up using and I could get it really cheap.  Wal-Mart used to sell big one pound plus skeins of yarn at a ridiculously low price.  Speaking of yarn there is also crochet thread; which you need to have some crochet knowledge to use in my opinion. You have to use an extremely small needle. This website has an interesting article about yarn for the beginner http://crochet.about.com/od/learntocrochet/a/Beginner-Crochet-Yarn.htm.

Every crafter should have a good pair of scissors.  I like having a scissor sharpener, too.  This way I do not have to go to a sewing store and find out when their scissor person will be in to drop my scissors off. You can get one at Wal-Mart in the sewing section.

 

Last but not least, a large tapestry needle; which has a blunt point and the eye of the needle is large.  You will need this for several different reasons.  One reason is to hide/weave yarn ends into your work. Beside this reason is to when you've finished a project.  

 

Sometime you will need a measuring device like tape measurer or ruler.

Now, the most important part is the abbreviations.  This is just the ones for beginners will need to know.  I did not do pictures of the symbols they use. Most of the time, you need to be an intermediate crocheter in my opinion to understand the symbols pictures.

 

beg = beginning

BL = Back Loop, block, or bobble, depending on the context.

BP = Back Post

ch = chain or chs = chains 

Examples:  Ch 25. This translates to: Chain 25.

cl = cluster

dc = double crochet      

dec = decrease

FO = finished object

FP = front post

FPDC= front post double crochet  

half dc = half double crochet

hdc = half double crochet

inc = increase

incl = include / including / inclusive

oz = ounce / ounces

pat = pattern

PM = place marker / place a marker

rep = repeat

rnd = round or rnds = rounds

sc = single crochet              

sk = skip

sl st = slip stitch

sp = space or sps = spaces

st = stitch or sts = stitches

tog = together

YO = yarn over

* = The pattern will specify how many times to repeat a series of instructions following an asterisk, or between asterisks.

( ) = The pattern will specify how many times to repeat a series of instructions that are given inside the parentheses.

[ ] = The pattern will specify how many times to repeat a series of instructions that are given inside the brackets.

“ = inches

Reminder:  Part 2 is about a Slip knot and how to chain stitches.

Share your ideas on this or anything here on the blog either here or e-mail me at stipple@verizon.net.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Sandi