The Moss Stitch

 Hi Friends, 

This week, we will explore the Moss Stitch, also known as the granite, linen, or woven stitch. This textured stitch creates a beautiful, reversible fabric. It is a versatile stitch that can be used for a variety of projects, ranging from scarves and hats to blankets and garments. 

The Moss Stitch (13 rows)

 Here's a step-by-step guide:

Instructions

Foundation chain: Create a foundation chain with an even number of stitches.

Row 1: In the second chain from the hook, make a single crochet (sc). *Chain 1, skip 1 chain, and make a single crochet (sc) in the next chain*. Repeat from * to * to the end of the row.

Row 1 completed

Row 2: Chain 1, turn. *Make a single crochet (sc) in the ch 1 space. Chain 1, skip sc, and make a single crochet (sc) in the next ch space*.  Repeat from * to * to the end of the row.  Sc in the top of the sc of the previous row.

Row 2 completed

Row 3 onward: Continue repeating Row 2 until your project is the desired length.

7 rows in

Tips

Maintain the pattern: Remember to chain 1 and skip the chain-1 space in each row to maintain the moss stitch pattern.

Pay attention to tension: Ensure your stitches are even and not too tight, as this can affect the texture of the fabric.

By following these steps and tips, you'll be able to create beautiful, textured pieces that you would want to wear continually. 

Until next time, let's be friends! 

And hey, if you're looking for more fun and inspiration, you can find Khenzuri on all the major social media platforms like Instagram 📷, Facebook 👍, Ravelry 🧶, Twitter 🐦, YouTube 🎥, and TikTok 🎵. Please feel free to like 👍, share 🤝, and comment 💬 on my posts across all social media platforms.

 Thanks for taking the time to read this. Live, love ❤️, and laugh 😂 until next time! 

- Khenzuri

The Shell Stitch

 Hi Friends, 

Today, I would like to share with you the crochet shell stitch.  This is a beautiful, textured stitch that can add visual interest to a variety of projects.  You can use the Shell stitch to make your entire project or use it as a border.  Let's jump right in,  shall we?

 Here's a step-by-step guide:

Instructions

Foundation chain: Create a foundation chain with a multiple of 6 stitches + 2 (or as specified in your pattern).

Row 1: In the second chain from the hook, make a single crochet (sc). Chain 1, skip 2 chains, and make 5 double crochet (dc) stitches in the next chain. Chain 1, skip 2 chains, and make a single crochet (sc) in the next chain. Repeat this pattern to the end of the row.  

Row 2: Chain 3 (counts as first dc), turn. Make 2 dc stitches in the first sc stitch. Chain 1, sc in the centre of the shell (the third dc stitch). Chain 1, make 5 dc stitches in the next sc stitch. Repeat this pattern until the last sc, place 3 dc in the previous sc stitch.

Row 3: Chain 1 turn. Make sc in the first stitch.  Chain 1, make 5 double crochet in the sc of the previous row. Chain 1, sc in the centre of the shell (third dc stitch). Repeat to the end of the row.  sc in the 3rd chain of the chain 3 at the beginning of the previous row.

6 rows in

The shell stitch as a border with a slight modification 

(6dc instead of the 5, and there is no ch1 in between the sc)

Tips

Pay attention to stitch count: Ensure you maintain the correct stitch count, as this will cause the shell stitch pattern to lie flat.

Use the right hook and yarn: Choose a hook and yarn that will allow you to achieve the desired texture and drape for your project.

Practice makes perfect: Don't be discouraged if it takes a few rows to get the hang of the shell stitch – with practice, you'll become more comfortable with the pattern.

The crochet shell stitch is a versatile stitch that can be used for a variety of projects, from baby blankets to market bags. With these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful shell stitch projects.

Until next time, let's be friends! 

And hey, if you're looking for more fun and inspiration, you can find Khenzuri on all the major social media platforms like Instagram 📷, Facebook 👍, Ravelry 🧶, Twitter 🐦, YouTube 🎥, and TikTok 🎵. Please feel free to like 👍, share 🤝, and comment 💬 on my posts across all social media platforms.

 Thanks for taking the time to read this. Live, love ❤️, and laugh 😂 until next time! 

- Khenzuri

A little Deeper

 Hi Friends, 

Let's explore some specific aspects of crochet.

Crochet for Beginners

If you're new to crochet, here are some tips to get you started:

1. Choose the right hook and yarn: Understand the basics of yarn weights and hook sizes.

2. Learn basic stitches: Start with simple stitches like single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc).

3. Practice, practice, practice: Begin with simple projects like scarves or dishcloths.

4. Watch tutorials: Online videos can help you understand complex stitches and techniques.

crochet hooks

Crochet Patterns and Designs

1. Scarves and shawls: Perfect for beginners, these projects are great for practicing basic stitches.

2. Amigurumi toys: Adorable, collectible creatures that make great gifts.

3. Blankets and afghans: Cosy, comforting projects that are perfect for snuggling up.

4. Home decor: Crochet can be used to create beautiful, functional items for the home, like doilies and pillow covers.

Crochet Stitches

Crochet Tips and Tricks

1. Read patterns carefully: Understand the pattern and abbreviations before starting.

2. Use the right yarn: Choose yarns that suit the project and your skill level.

3. Don't be afraid to make mistakes: Mistakes can often be fixed or incorporated into the design.

4. Join a community: Connect with other crocheters online or in-person to share tips and inspiration.

Ravelry

Crochet and Mental Health

1. Relaxation and stress relief: The repetitive motion of crochet can be calming and meditative.

2. Mindfulness: Crochet requires focus, which can help with mindfulness and presence.

3. Creativity and self-expression: Crochet allows you to bring your ideas to life.

4. Community support: Joining a crochet group can provide social support and connection.

That's it on our review on Crochet: a timeless craft

Until next time, let's be friends! 

And hey, if you're looking for more fun and inspiration, you can find Khenzuri on all the major social media platforms like Instagram 📷, Facebook 👍, Ravelry 🧶, Twitter 🐦, YouTube 🎥, and TikTok 🎵.. Please feel free to like 👍, share 🤝, and comment 💬 on my posts across all social media platforms.

 Thanks for taking the time to read this. Live, love ❤️, and laugh 😂 until next time! 

- Khenzuri

A Closer Look

Hi Friends, 

Last time, we explored the fantastic world of crochet, a timeless craft. 🧶 Today, we will dive deeper as we learn about the benefits, types, trends, and how to get started with crochet.

**The Benefits of Crochet**

1. *Stress relief*: The repetitive motion of crochet can be calming and meditative. 🧘‍♀️

2. *Creativity and self-expression*: Crochet allows you to bring your ideas to life. 🎨

3. *Community building*: Join crochet groups, share patterns, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. 🤝

4. *Practicality*: Create functional items like blankets, hats, and scarves, to name a few. 🧣

5. *Therapeutic benefits*: Crochet can aid in focus, fine motor skills development, and relaxation. 🌼

**Types of Crochet**

1. *Amigurumi*: Japanese art of creating small, cute creatures. 🐻.  And with self-expression, I've seen larger creatures being created.

2. *Filet crochet*: Using mesh patterns to create intricate designs. 📐

fillet crochet

3. *Tapestry crochet*: Colourwork technique to create vibrant, graphic patterns. 🎨  This I love seeing but doubt I have the mental capacity to weave in all those ends lol.

Tapestry

4. *Lace crochet*: Delicate, intricate patterns using fine yarns and hooks. 🕊️

**Modern Trends in Crochet**

1. *Sustainable yarns*: Eco-friendly materials and practices. 🌱.  One can get wool blends, cotton and even vegan friendly yarns now.

2. *Digital patterns*: Online resources and tutorials. 💻.  Want to learn a particular stitch, search Google or Youtube and there is a tutorial available.

3. *Crochet fashion*: Incorporating crochet into mainstream fashion. 👗.  They use to say crochet was for old people, but with the new age generations we have seen more than your grandma's bedspread. 

A Prom dress made for my daughter

4. *Amigurumi toys*: Adorable, collectible creatures. 🧸

**Getting Started with Crochet**

1. *Choose the right hook and yarn*: Understand the basics of yarn weights and hook sizes. 🧵.  This is trial and error.  I recommend playing round with the different size hooks and yarn until you find what's right for you.  Some people like using really fine yarn while others prefer the larger one.  It's not a one size fits all.

2. *Learn basic stitches*: Start with simple stitches like single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc). ✂️  Play around and learn all you can, you will find a stitch you like most.

3. *Practice, practice, practice*: Begin with simple projects like scarves or dishcloths. 🧺  Heck, jump head first and make a blanket, lol... 

4. *Join a community*: Connect with other crocheters online or in person. 🌐There is a WORLD WIDE WEB at your disposal.  

Until next time, let's be friends! 

And hey, if you're looking for more fun and inspiration, you can find Khenzuri on all the major social media platforms like Instagram 📷, Facebook 👍, Ravelry 🧶, Twitter 🐦, YouTube 🎥, and TikTok 🎵. Please feel free to like 👍, share 🤝, and comment 💬 on my posts across all social media platforms.

Thanks for taking the time to read this. Live, love ❤️, and laugh 😂 until next time! 

- Khenzuri