Crochet
Crochet is a skill that traditionally uses a crochet hook and yarn or thread to create practical items, such as blankets, sweaters, hats and scarves or intricate fancy work like doilies and dresser scarves. Many people associate crochet with afghan blankets, which are traditionally made with a group of multicolored crochet squares called Granny squares that are joined together to form the blanket.
Background
Crochet has been popular with European and American people who enjoy handwork since at least the 1800's. Crochet probably comes from a similar technique, called Tambour, which Europeans discovered when they visited countries in the Far East.http://crochet.org/newslet/nl0997a.html Today, there is a renewed interest in traditional crochet work. In addition, wire crochet is very popular with jewelry lovers.
Introduction to Crochet
Learning to crochet is so much easier when someone is demonstrating the steps. People used to learn their crochet skills by watching their mother or grandmother create Granny squares or scarves, but, as handwork became less common, they have had to look for other ways to learn. This video is a great introduction to crochet basics.
References
Fast Facts
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Relevant Fact 1
Crochet as people know it today has existed since the early 1800's.
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Relevant Fact 2
Some experts believe a form of crochet existed in Italy in the 1500's.
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Relevant Fact 3
Poor or middle class people originally were discouraged from making crochet pieces for their own use.
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Relevant Fact 4
There are many charity projects for crocheters to get involved in.
