Crochet Infinity Scarves: 8 simple infinity scarves to crochet
Author: Burns, Jane; Medus, Cara
Date: 2014-07-25
Publisher: F+W Media
Rights: Copyright &#169; 2014 by F&#38;W Media International, Ltd

Contents

Introduction

Daydream In Lace

Perfectly Plaid

Arch Window

Chunky Houndstooth Check

Autumnal Cosy Cowl

Cool Blue Granny Stripe

Winter White

Mobius Rib Cowl

Techniques

Contributors

Suppliers

Copyright

Introduction

Make your own version of the latest must-have trend – the infinity scarf – a large, closed loop of crochet that can be worn in a variety of stylish ways. Wear it loose in the summer or wrap it around twice for winter warmth. You can even pull it over your head as a hood, or drape it around your shoulders as a snug shawl or capelet.

Now you can crochet your own infinity scarf or shorter cowl with this stylish collection of original patterns, brought to you by a selection of talented designers. Create a scarf for every season with the inspiring range of patterns, yarns and colourways included, from pretty plaids to chunky ribs; delicate lace to a funky twist on the traditional granny square.

Infinity scarves are perfect weekend projects and make great gifts for friends and family. Each design is easy to follow, even for beginners, and the handy technique section at the back of the book will allow you to brush up on your skills and get crochet clever!

So whether you are looking for up-to-the-minute fashion ideas, a pattern for a chic Mobius cowl or a contemporary take on a crochet classic, look no further than this essential collection.

Daydream in Lace

Designed by Jane Burns

The essential lacy infinity scarf for all seasons – this easy-to-follow design looks fabulous in a bold colourway and is ideal for any lace weight yarn. Worked in the round with no seaming, the pattern is created from the foundation chain up and finishes with a gorgeous scalloped edge, to which you could easily add some beads or sequins for evening glamour.

Finished measurements

1.3m × 15cm (1^1⁄2yd × 6in)

You will need

•  50g (1^3⁄4oz) of 4ply Stylecraft Senses Lace yarn (80% acrylic/20% mohair, 250m/273yd per ball) in shade 2476 Clematis

•  Crochet hook: 4mm (US G/6)

•  Darning needle

Start here

Ch301.

Without twisting ch, ss into the very first ch to form a ring.

Foundation Round: Ch1, dc in the back bump of each ch to end, ss into top of beg ch1. [300dc]

Round 1: Ch1, *ch4, sk next 4 dc, dc in each of next 2 dc; rep from * to last 6 dc, ch4, sk next 4 dc, 1dc next dc, ss into top of beg ch1.

Round 2: Ch3, *(2tr, ch2, 2tr) in next ch-4 sp; rep from * to last ch-4 sp, 2tr, ch2, 1tr into rem ch-4 sp, ss into third ch of beg ch3.

Round 3: Ch5, 2dc in next ch-2 sp, *ch4, 2dc in ch-2 sp; rep from * to last ch-2 sp, 1dc in ch-2 sp, ss into first ch of beg ch5.

Round 4: Ch4, *(2tr, ch2, 2tr) in each ch-4 sp; rep from * to last ch-4 sp, 2tr, ch2, 1tr in rem ch-4 sp, ss into third ch of beg ch4.

Round 5: Ch7, *2tr in next ch-2 sp, ch4; rep from * to last ch-2 sp, 1tr in ch-2 sp, ss into third ch of beg ch7.

Round 6: Ch3 *(2tr, ch2, 2tr) in next ch-4 sp; rep from * to last ch-4 sp, 2tr, ch2, 1tr into rem ch-4 sp, ss into third ch of beg ch3.

Repeat Rounds 3–6 twice more.

Making up and finishing

Fasten off.

Darn in ends and block.

Abbreviations
beg: beginning
ch: chain
ch-4 sp: chain four space
dc: double crochet
rem: remaining
sk: skip
sp: space
ss: slip stitch
tr: treble

Perfectly Plaid

Designed by Jane Burns

Inspired by the stunning plaid fabrics seen on the catwalk this season, this original design is a breeze to crochet and you can experiment with colour palettes to complement your latest look. The beautiful reversible finish is created with stripes of double crochet and the slip stitch chain is worked vertically, making the pattern simple to follow. You will also find a pattern for a matching shorter cowl – the perfect gift for the men in your life!

Finished measurements

Infinity scarf: 1.3m × 16cm (1^1⁄2yd × 6^1⁄4in)

Cowl: 65 × 16cm (25^1⁄2 × 6^1⁄4in)

You will need

•  Rowan Baby Merino Silk DK yarn (66% merino wool/34% tussan silk, 135m/147yd per ball):

A 100g (3^1⁄2oz) of shade 681 Zinc

B 50g (1^3⁄4oz) of shade 677 Teal

C 50g (1^3⁄4oz) of shade 672 Dawn

•  Crochet hook: 4.5mm (US 7)

•  Darning needle

Infinity scarf

Start here

Using yarn A, ch211.

Foundation Row: Dc in second ch from hook, 1dc in each ch to end, turn. [210 sts]

*Row 1: Using A, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Rows 2–3: Using B, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Row 4: Using A, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Row 5: Using B, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Rows 6–8: Using A, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Rows 9–10: Using C, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Row 11: Using A, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Row 12: Using C, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Rows 13–15: Using A, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Rows 16–17: Using B, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Row 18: Using A, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Row 19: Using B, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Row 20: Using A, ch1, 1dc in each dc to end, turn.

Repeat Rows 1–20 once more.

Fasten off.*

Abbreviations
ch: chain
dc: double crochet
ss: slip stitch

Applying vertical slip stitch pattern

The vertical stripes are worked from the foundation chain up to the final row.

Dawn stripes

Starting in sixth dc and *using C, join yarn to edge at foundation ch, slip stitch up the fabric with one ss in each row going up the fabric, holding the working yarn to the back of the fabric and inserting the hook into the fabric from the front*. Continue ss across all 40 rows of the scarf. Repeat from * to * in the seventh stitch. Repeat from * to * in ninth dc.

Teal stripes

Starting in 13th dc and *using B, join yarn to edge at foundation ch, slip stitch up the fabric with one ss in each row going up the fabric, holding the working yarn to the back of the fabric and inserting the hook into the fabric from the front*. Continue ss across all 40 rows of the scarf. Repeat from * to * in the 14th stitch. Repeat from * to * in 16th dc.

These two sets of vertical lines set the pattern, repeat pattern 14 times in total.

Making up and finishing

Darn in ends and block.

Sew side edges together, taking care not to twist the scarf.

Cowl

Using A, ch 113.

Foundation Row: Dc in second ch from hook, 1dc in each ch to end, turn. [112 sts]

Work as the Perfectly Plaid Infinity Scarf from * to *.

Applying slip stitch pattern

Work as above, repeating the pattern seven times in total.

Make up as per the Perfectly Plaid Infinity Scarf instructions.

Arch Window

Designed by Jane Burns

This stylish infinity scarf and matching cowl give a contemporary twist to the classic granny square. A series of granny square motifs are whip stitched together to form the infinity loop. Treble crochet edging applied to both outer edges makes the scarf drape beautifully. The black, grey and magenta colour scheme works well with jeans and a sweater for shopping in town or will complement your favourite coat to brighten up the commute to work.

Finished measurements

Infinity scarf: 1.8m × 13cm (2yd × 5in)

Cowl: 70 × 13cm (27^1⁄2 × 5in)

You will need

•  Rowan Pure Wool DK yarn (100% wool, 130m/142yd per ball):

A 150g (5^1⁄2oz) of shade 004 Black

B 50g (1^3⁄4oz) of shade 013 Enamel

C 50g (1^3⁄4oz) of shade 002 Shale

D 50g (1^3⁄4oz) of shade 026 Hyacinth

•  Crochet hook: 4.5mm (US 7)

•  Darning needle

Infinity scarf

Yarns to use

View a text version of this table

Abbreviations
beg: beginning
ch: chain
ch-1 sp: chain one space
dc: double crochet
htr: half treble crochet
rem: remaining
sk: skip
ss: slip stitch

Tip

Darn in the ends of each motif as you work to avoid having hundreds of ends to darn at the same time when you’ve finished.

Start here

Make five motifs in each colourway.

Using A, ch6 and join with a ss to form a ring.

Round 1: Ch1, 16dc into ring, ss to first dc to join.

Round 2: Ch11 (sk next 3dc, 1dc in next dc, ch10) 3 times, ss into first ch of beg ch11.

Round 3: Ch1, 1dc in same place, (11dc into next ch-10 sp, 1dc into next dc) 3 times, 11dc into next ch-10 sp, join with ss into first dc.

Change colour.

Round 4: Join yarn to sixth dc in any 11dc loop, ch1, 2dc into same place, (1dc into each of next 11dc, 2dc into next dc) 3 times, 1dc into each of next 11dc, join with ss into first dc.

Change colour.

Round 5: Join yarn into corner, ch1, 2dc into same place (1dc into each of next 12dc, 2dc into next dc) 3 times, 1dc into each next 12dc, join with ss into first dc.

Change colour.

Round 6: Join yarn into corner, ch1, 2dc into same place (1dc into each of next 13dc, 2dc into next dc) 3 times, 1dc into each next 13dc, join with ss into first dc.

Change colour.

Round 7: Join yarn into corner, ch1, 2dc into same place (1dc into each of next 14dc, 2dc into next dc) 3 times, 1dc into each next 14dc, join with ss into first dc.

Change colour.

Round 8: Join yarn into corner, ch1, 2dc into same place (1dc into each of next 15dc, 2dc into next dc) 3 times, 1dc into each of next 15dc, join with ss into first dc.

Change colour.

Round 9: Join yarn into corner, ch1, 2dc into same place (1dc into each of next 16dc, 2dc into next dc) 3 times, 1dc into each of next 16dc, join with ss into first dc. Fasten off.

Making up and finishing

Darn in all ends. Join motifs together using whip stitch in order of colourways A, B, C. Join in the round, taking care not to twist the scarf. I strongly recommend blocking before you work the edgings.

Top edging

Round 1: Using A, join into whip stitch seam, ch3, *1dc into 17dc across top of motif, ch1, 1htr into seam, ch1; rep from * to last motif, 1dc into 17dc across motif, ch1, ss into second ch of beg ch3.

Round 2: Ch2, *1htr into ch-1 sp, 1htr into 17dc across motif, 1htr into ch-1 sp; rep from * to rem 17dc, 1 htr into 17dc across motif, 1htr into ch-1 sp, ss into top of beg ch2 to join.

Bottom edging

Work as for top edging.

Darn in ends and block.

Cowl

To make the cowl version of the Arch Window Infinity Scarf, make two motifs in each colourway. Join the motifs in the same way, taking care not to twist.

Work edgings as for the Arch Window Infinity Scarf.

Tip

When darning in your ends, try to sew them in under stitches of the same colour. This will keep your motifs looking as neat on the back as they do on the front.

Chunky Houndstooth Check

Designed by Cara Medus

This super chunky scarf is guaranteed to keep you warm and toasty, whatever the weather! Simply drape the scarf around your neck or wrap it around twice and pull the top layer over your head as a cosy hood. The classic houndstooth check pattern is easy to work and looks highly sophisticated in its simple monochromatic tones. A winter classic that will look great in town or country, this is the perfect gift to crochet for Christmas.

Finished measurements

1.8m × 29cm (2yd × 11^1⁄2in)

You will need

•  King Cole Big Value Super Chunky yarn (100% acrylic, 81m/90yd per ball):

A 300g (10^1⁄2oz) of shade 880 Black

B 300g (10^1⁄2oz) of shade 012 Champagne

•  Crochet hook: 9mm (US M/13)

Pattern notes

Working a treble stitch

Each time you work a treble stitch you will be working into one of the skipped stitches of the previous row. The treble stitches are in groups of three; the first and last stitch of the group are worked into the corresponding skipped stitches and around the chain of the previous row, the middle stitch of the group is worked into the corresponding stitch and either in front of, or behind, the chain from the previous row.

If you are working a RS row you will work behind the chain; on a WS row, work in front of the chain, so the chain always shows on the RS of the work.

Working around the chain

1. Insert the hook into the stitch, and holding the hook behind the chain of the previous row, yarn around hook.

2. Complete the treble stitch so that the stitch lies around the chain.

Working behind the chain (RS rows)

1. Pull the chain from the previous row forward, put the hook over the chain and insert the hook into the skipped st, yarn around hook.

2. Complete the treble stitch, so that the chain from the previous row lies in front of the stitch just worked.

Working in front of the chain (WS rows)

1. Insert the hook, and keeping it in front of the chain on the previous row, yarn round hook.

2. Complete the treble stitch so that it lies in front of the chain on the previous row.

Abbreviations
ch: chain
dc: double crochet
rs: right side
sk: skip
ss: slip stitch
st/s: stitch/es
tr: treble crochet
ws: wrong side

Working around the chain

Working behind the chain (RS rows)

Working in front of the chain (WS rows)

Start here

Using A, ch24.

Row 1 (RS): Dc in second ch from hook and in each ch to end. [23 sts]

Row 2: Ch3 (counts as tr), (3tr, ch3, sk3 sts) 3 times, 4tr, turn.

Row 3: Change to B, ch4, *sk3 tr, (tr around ch, tr behind ch, tr around ch) over the next 3 skipped sts of previous row, ch3; rep from * twice more, ss in last st, turn.

Row 4: Ch3 (counts as tr), *(tr around ch, tr in front of ch, tr around ch) over next 3 skipped sts of previous row, ch3; rep from * twice more, (tr around ch, tr in front of ch, tr around ch) over next 3 skipped sts of previous row, tr in last st, turn.

Row 5: Change to A, repeat Row 3.

Row 6: Repeat Row 4.

Rows 3–6 set pattern.

Repeat Rows 3–6 until the scarf measures 1.8m (2yd), ending on a Row 3.

Next Row: Continuing with B, ch3 (counts as tr), *(tr around ch, tr in front of ch, tr around ch) over next 3 skipped sts of previous row, dc in each of next 3 tr; rep from * twice more, (tr around ch, tr in front of ch, tr around ch) over next 3 skipped sts of previous row, tr in last st.

With RS together, join the foundation chain to the last row by slip stitching through both pieces in each st across,.Fasten off and weave in ends.

Making up and finishing

Edging

With RS facing, rejoin both yarns to one edge of the scarf. Ch1 (does not count as st), and work a double crochet stitch loosely in each row end around the edge of the scarf. Work in the contrasting colour to the row of the scarf so if the row end is in A, work in B and vice versa. You will therefore work 2dc in A and 2dc in B repeated around the edge of the scarf, then ss to first dc to join and fasten off. Work over the strand of the colour you are not using to keep the edges neat.

Repeat for the other edge of the scarf.

Weaving

At four places across the width of the scarf, the chain stitches are visible from the RS. Weave a double strand of yarn along the length of the scarf, pulling the yarn underneath these chains to hold yarn in place. There will be four strands in total; use A for the two outside and B for the two in the centre. Secure the ends on the WS at the seam of the scarf. The image opposite shows a double strand of yarn being pulled underneath the exposed chains on the RS of the scarf.

Tip

Try to keep your treble stitches as even as possible so your houndstooth check effect looks really neat. Keep an eye on which row you’re on – working in front of or behind the skipped stitches.

Autumnal Cosy Cowl

Designed by Cara Medus

When the weather starts to cool and the leaves begin to fall, this chunky cowl will keep you feeling cosy and content. The easy-to-follow pattern cleverly mimics knitted rib and is surprisingly quick to make, even if you are new to crochet. The striking gold shade will enhance any seasonal ensemble, or you can substitute it with any bold colourway of your choice. The perfect project for a lazy autumn weekend!

Finished measurements

1.5m × 17cm (1^3⁄4yd × 6^3⁄4in)

You will need

•  300g (10^1⁄2oz) of King Cole Magnum Lightweight Chunky yarn (25% wool/75% acrylic, 110m/120yd per ball) in shade 156 Old Gold

•  Crochet hook: 7mm

•  Darning needle

Start here

Ch22.

Row 1 (RS): Tr in fourth ch from hook and in each ch to end, turn. [20 sts]

Row 2: Ss loosely in each st across, turn.

Row 3: Ch3 (counts as tr), tr in each st across, turn.

Row 4: Ss loosely in each st across, turn.

Rows 5–9: Ch1 (does not count as st), dc in first st, ch1, sk1 st, (dc in next st, ch1, sk1 st) repeat to last 2 sts, 2 dc, turn.

Row 10: Ss loosely in each st across, turn.

Row 11: Ch3 (counts as tr), tr in each st across, turn.

Row 12: Ss loosely in each st across, turn.

Row 13: Ch3 (counts as tr), tr in each st across, turn.

Row 14: Ss loosely in each st across, turn.

Rows 5–14: Set pattern. Repeat Rows 5–14 until scarf measures 1.5m (1^3⁄4yd), ending on Row 9.

Making up and finishing

With WS together, join the foundation chain to the last row by slip stitching through both pieces in each st across. Fasten off and darn in ends.

Abbreviations
ch: chain
dc: double crochet
rs: right side
sk: skip
ss: slip stitch
st: stitch
tr: treble crochet
ws: wrong side

Cool Blue Granny Stripe

Designed by Claire Wilson

We are sure this timeless granny stripe infinity, crocheted here in a calming ice blue, will become a firm favourite in this collection. The classic pattern forms a stylish and versatile scarf to see you through all seasons. Handy to carry in a beach bag when the sun disappears behind the clouds, or perfect paired with your favourite jumper in the chilly winter months, you’ll want to make one in every colour.

Finished measurements

92 × 12.5cm (36^1⁄4 × 5in)

You will need

•  Two 170g (6oz) balls of Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick and Quick (80% acrylic/20% wool, 80m/87yd per ball) in Glacier, or any super chunky yarn

•  Crochet hook: 9mm (US M/13)

•  Darning needle

Start here

Make a treble crochet chainless foundation of 138 stitches as follows:

(Ch3, *yo insert hook into first ch, pull up a loop, ch1, yo pull through 2 sts twice.) Repeat from * making each tr into the ch of the previous stitch. Turn.

Row 1: Ch3 (counts as tr), 2 tr into next st, *sk2, 3 tr in next st, rep from * ending sk2. Ss to top of initial ch3. Turn.

Row 2: Ch3 (counts as tr), 2 tr into sp closest to ch3, *sk2, 3 tr in next sp, rep from * ending sk2. Ss to top of initial ch3. Turn.

Row 3–5: Repeat Row 2.

Row 6: Ch3, tr in every stitch to the end of row. Fasten off.

Making up and finishing

Stitch the short edges together with a darning needle to create a looped scarf.

Tip

The chainless foundation is a much quicker way of starting a piece than making a long chain and then having to work back into every stitch, which can be tricky. In this method, the first chain you make in each stitch becomes part of the base line of the scarf. Don’t forget to put your hook through two strands of this chain.

Abbreviations
ch: chain
sk: skip
sp: space
ss: slip stitch
st/s: stitch/es
tr: treble
yo: yarn over

Winter White

Designed by Claire Wilson

This simple winter white infinity scarf in a classic rib is the perfect pattern, even if you have only just picked up a crochet hook! Use crisp white yarn for a timeless look that goes with everything, or select a yarn with metallic thread to give the scarf that extra sparkle. A stunning addition to a winter evening out, or ideal teamed with chunky casuals for a brisk walk in the snow.

Finished measurements

56 × 12cm (22 × 4^3⁄4in)

You will need

•  170g (6oz) ball of Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick and Quick (80% acrylic/20% wool, 97m/106yd per ball) in Fisherman, or any super chunky yarn

•  Crochet hook: 9mm (US M/13)

•  Darning needle

Start here

Ch90. Without twisting the ch, ss into first ch to form a ring.

Round 1: Ch3 (counts as tr), 1 tr into each ch of round. Ss to top of first ch3 to join (90 tr).

Round 2: Ch3 (counts as tr), 1 tr into blo of each tr of previous round. Ss to top of first ch3 to join.

Rounds 3–5: Repeat Round 2.

Making up and finishing

Fasten off and weave in ends with a darning needle.

Tip

When making a long chain to start an item with, place stitch counters after every 10th chain so you don’t lose count.

Abbreviations
blo: back of loop
ch: chain
ss: slip stitch
tr: treble

Mobius Rib Cowl

Designed by Anna Fazakerley

This scarf has a real twist! The pattern is for a clever Mobius cowl that can be made to any desired length. It is crocheted here using yarn containing several complementary shades, but could be made in a bright block colour to make a real statement. Simple to crochet, the Mobius is a fun and cosy addition to any outfit and the perfect gift to make in a weekend.

Finished measurements

90 × 20cm (35 × 8in)

Can be worked to any desired length

You will need

•  200g (7oz) of Robin Candyfloss (100% acrylic, 280m/306yd per ball) in shade 4450 Waltzer, or any super chunky yarn suitable for 10mm (US N/15) hook or similar

•  Crochet hook: 10mm (US N/15)

•  Yarn needle

•  Scissors

Start here

Create a row of foundation half treble crochet stitches (or loose chain stitches), long enough to wrap loosely around your neck and allow for a drape. I made my foundation row 60 stitches long. If you like a little more drape in your cowl you may want to make it 80 or more stitches. I find the best way is to try it on loosely to see how it drapes.

*Turn, ch2 (counts as blhtr), blhtr in each st to end*.

Repeat from * to * until the cowl reaches your preferred length. I made my cowl 14 rows (7 ribs), but depending on your natural gauge and the yarn and hook you use, the length this gives you will vary.

Making up and finishing

Fasten off, leaving a long tail.

To finish, thread the tail onto a yarn needle and turn the two ends of the cowl so they are facing each other. Twist one end over before joining (to create the Mobius shape) and seam together, using mattress stitch for the neatest join. Fasten off securely and thread the end of the yarn through several stitches to hide it before cutting it off.

Mattress Stitch

To join with mattress stitch, place the two edges together and thread a yarn needle with the same yarn used for the items to be joined. Starting on the left hand side, thread the needle through the two back loops of the first stitch, moving left to right. Then thread your needle through the two back loops of the opposite stitch on the right hand side moving right

Tip

If you have a lighter or heavier yarn you can easily adjust your hook size and the pattern to suit it.

Abbreviations
blhtr: back loop half treble
ch: chain
htr: half treble crochet
st: stitch/es
to left. Repeat these two steps until you have finished your seam and then pull the yarn to tighten. If you are creating a seam in a project worked in rows, rather than specific loops, you will just be picking up the sides of the stitches you created in rows. This still results in a near-invisible seam.

Pattern notes

Foundation half treble

This stitch creates more stretch in the piece than a standard chain, which can draw the work in slightly, altering the drape. If you are more comfortable with a standard chain this is fine, but try to work it very loosely, or work the initial chain on a hook that is one size larger.

1. 2ch, yarn over and insert the hook into second ch from hook, pull up a loop.

2. Yarn over and pull through one loop (this creates the next chain in the foundation).

3. Yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete the first foundation half treble.

For the next and all remaining foundation half treble stitches:

4. Yarn over, insert the hook through two strands of the chain created in Step 2, pull up a loop.

5. Yarn over and pull through one loop (to create the next chain for your next foundation half treble).

6. Yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete the next foundation half treble.

Repeat Steps 4–6 to create all further foundation stitches.

Techniques

Crochet stitches
crochet terms

Be aware that crochet terms in the US are different from those in the UK. This can be confusing as the same terms are used to refer to different stitches under each system. The list here gives abbreviations and a translation of UK terms to US terms:

UK term | US term
single crochet | slip stitch
double crochet | single crochet
half treble | half double crochet
treble | double crochet
double treble | treble crochet
treble treble | double treble crochet

The starting loop or slipknot

Before you begin, you will need to make your first stitch. This will form the basis for all the following stitches.

Make a loop near the cut end of the yarn and insert the crochet hook into the loop, picking up the end of the yarn leading to the ball.

Draw this new loop of yarn through the existing loop, and gently pull on the end of the yarn leading to the ball to tighten this new loop around the hook. This is your first stitch.

Chain

(abbreviation = ch)

Almost all crochet items start with a length of chain stitches, and they also often appear within stitch patterns. Wherever the chain is required, it is made in the same way.

To make a chain stitch, take the yarn over the hook, wrapping it from the back, up over the hook towards the front, and then down and under the hook (every time the yarn is taken over the hook it should be done in this way). Now draw this new loop of yarn through the loop on the hook to complete the chain stitch.

Double crochet

(abbreviation = dc)

A double crochet stitch is one of the most commonly used and easiest crochet stitches to make.

To make a double crochet, start by inserting the hook into the work at the required point. Take the yarn over the hook and draw this new loop of yarn through the loop on to the hook – there are now two loops on the hook.

Take the yarn over the hook again and draw this new loop through both the loops on the hook. This completes the double crochet stitch.

Treble

(abbreviation = tr)

This is the other most commonly used crochet stitch: while a double crochet stitch is a very short, compact stitch, a treble stitch is taller and will add more height to the work.

To make a treble, wrap the yarn around the hook before inserting it into the work. Wrap the yarn around the hook again and draw this loop through the work – there are now three loops on the hook.

Wrap the yarn around the hook once more and draw this new loop through just the first two loops on the hook – the original loop and this new loop.

Wrap the yarn around the hook again and draw this new loop through both loops on the hook to complete the treble stitch.

Half treble

(abbreviation = htr)

A half treble stitch is a variation of a treble; its height is halfway between that of a double crochet and a treble stitch.

To make a half treble, start in exactly the way a treble is made until there are three loops on the hook. Wrap the yarn around the hook once more and draw this new loop through all three loops on the hook to complete the half treble stitch.

Back loop half treble

(abbreviation = blhtr)

This is a variation of the half treble stitch, working into the back loop only. To make a back loop half treble stitch, yarn over, insert the hook into the back loop only and pull up a loop. Yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete a stitch.

Slip stitch

(abbreviation = ss)

This stitch adds virtually no height to the work. It is generally used either to move the hook and working loop to a new point, or to join pieces.

To make a slip stitch, insert the hook into the work at the required point. Take the yarn over the hook and draw this new loop through both the work and the loop on the hook to complete the slip stitch.

Fan

(abbreviation = 2tr, ch2, 2tr)

This is a combination of trebles and chains in the same stitch.

Wrap the yarn around the hook before inserting it into the work. Wrap the yarn around the hook again and draw this loop through the work, wrap the yarn and draw through two of the loops on the hook (two loops left on the hook). Repeat.

Wrap the yarn around the hook, draw this new loop of yarn through the loop on the hook. Repeat.

Wrap the yarn around the hook before inserting it into the work. Wrap the yarn around the hook again and draw this loop through the work, wrap the yarn and draw through two of the loops on the hook (two loops left on the hook). Repeat.

Basic techniques

Joining new colours

When you’re about to change colours, work until there are two loops left on your hook. Leaving a tail, draw the end of the new colour through the two loops on the hook.

Then, with your first round, work either into the centre of the ring as if it were a chain space, or into the chain stitches themselves as normal.

Continue in the pattern with the new ball of yarn. Once complete, weave in the tails of both colours to secure.

At the end of the first round of any crochet piece, the first and last stitches need to be joined together to complete the circle. This is usually done by working a slipstitch into the top of the first stitch.

Working in the round

Sometimes, rather than working in rows, you will want to crochet in rounds.

When you begin, you will need to join the foundation chain to create a ring. Make the required number of chain stitches and then use a slip stitch into the first chain to join the work.

To make the second and every following round of crochet, the hook must, as when working in rows, be raised up to the height of the new stitches. So each new round of crochet will start with a turning chain.

Fasten off

When you reach the end of your pattern, you will need to fasten off properly to ensure your crochet work is secure and does not unravel. This is very simple to do. You will finish with one loop on the hook. Cut the yarn, leaving a tail. Draw the tail through the loop on the hook and gently pull the yarn to tighten the stitch so that it does not unravel.

Blocking

If a crochet item has been made using a synthetic yarn, or if it is very heavily textured, blocking it is a much better option than pressing.

To block out an item, start with a soft but firm surface, such as a table covered with a towel and a clean sheet. Lay the crochet section flat on this surface, but with the right side uppermost. If necessary, pin the crochet to the pressing surface around its outer edge, easing it into the correct shape and placing the pins 5–10cm (2–4in) apart. Cover the crochet with a damp cloth and leave everything to dry naturally. Once totally dry, remove the cloth and any pins and you can complete the item if necessary.

Sewing

Basic stitches

Running stitch

Whip stitch (oversewing)

Slip stitch

Chain stitch

Contributors

Jane Burns
www.knittingimage.wordpress.com

Cara Medus
www.caramedus.com

Claire Wilson
www.claireabellemakes.com

Anna Fazakerley
www.dottydoily.com

Suppliers
www.stitchcraftcreate.co.uk
www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk
www.knitrowan.com
www.kingcole.co.uk
www.lionbrand.com
www.rkmwools.co.uk

A DAVID & CHARLES BOOK

© F&W Media International, Ltd 2014

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Table

| Motif colourway A | Motif colourway B | Motif colourway C
Round 1 | A | A | A
Round 2 | A | A | A
Round 3 | A | A | A
Round 4 | D | D | D
Round 5 | C | C | A
Round 6 | B | A | D
Round 7 | C | C | C
Round 8 | A | A | A
Round 9 | A | A | A

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