Learning to Crochet

Learning some Crochet Basics

I have been a basic knitter for many years now.  I don't knit all of the time.  And I don't know many complicated stitches.   I may let my needles sit for a year, but then I  find a project that I love (and think I can handle) and I find myself knitting again for awhile. I have enjoyed knitting  many blankets and scarves.  

 Erin, at Why Not Sew?  blog , has so  many adorable projects with beautiful  crochet touches. Whenever she makes a new , adorable project with some crocheting in it, I say to myself..." At least learn how to crochet a little something!!"  So  I finally  started  collecting the tutorials that I ran across, in hopes  that when I do  learn how to crochet ,  I will have some cute projects to work on.  
  
And you know how awesome it is to find a friend, who lives close by, who will help you  figure out things with knitting and crocheting?  I found  my Judy in my choir , and she patiently has  showed me many of the basics of crocheting .  Judy is in the Prayer Shawl group at our church,and she is always knitting or crocheting blankets and shawls to give away, through this touching ministry.  

By the way, Judy was carrying her scissors around in a zip-lock baggie.  When I found this  out, I knew what I wanted to make her as a little thank you gift ...

Easy Snap Clutch    Pattern by  Sweet Pea Patterns                      Susie's Sunroom

They are bigger than they seem....  my large scissors fit inside of it! 

Large enough for scissors and more


So , after a few months of practicing the basics of crochet,  I ventured out into making a few yarn baskets.   (I'll show you them soon.)  

But this cute Easter Basket pattern caught my eye, and  so I decided to try to make it.

I knew it wouldn't be perfect, but I could learn  by trying to make  it.

                                 

Lion Brand  Patterns website -     Amigurumi Bunny Basket  Pattern #:  80092AD

Yarn:   Vanna's Choice   white and pink

Level:  Easy level 2

                                     

                                               

I was thrilled to get the ears to look like ears!  This is the first time I made something other than a circle for a basket.   (The ears were a bit floppy, so I put some white pipe cleaners in them to give them some stiffness.)

I made a little pompom for his tail.  (I now  know I can add LOTS more yarn on the next one that I make.)

I looked up the word Amigurumi.....    The word is derived from a combination of the Japanese words ami, meaning crocheted or knitted, and  nuigurumi, meaning stuffed doll,   typical in Japanese culture.  (Amigurumi really became popular worldwide  in 2003.)

So I hope this is the start of a fun journey into the crocheting world.... in hopes of learning  how to embellish lots of cute projects.

I'm off to my sewing room!