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As we slowly ease into cooler temperatures in Texas I am feeling some sort of twisted mammalian instinct to hoard craft supplies and hibernate in my apartment making things all winter.
I figured a list of my favorite tools and tutorials may be of assistance to any others feeling these sorts of urges. I taught myself to crochet using a klutz book (shout out to my fellow 90's babies!) when I was 13-ish. Below are a few of my favorite materials and tutorials for crochet and a few of the other crafts I have picked up recently.
CROCHET:
Lion Brand Wool Yarn The color "Marble" is pictured above
Wool And The Gang "Jersey Be Good" and "Crazy Sexy Yarn" are my favorite!
Boye Jumbo Crochet Hooks These are perfect hook sizes for the three yarns I just mentioned!
Dritz Plastic Yarn Needles I think the plastic variety are the most versatile - these also work well for loom knitting projects
A great beginner project is a simple rectangular scarf made with "single crochet" stitch (featured in this video). The lion brand yarn above is pretty forgiving for a first-timer. I recommend choosing a lighter color yarn so you can better keep track of your stitches while you learn. Another satisfying beginner project would be a chunky rug with a jersey/ t-shirt yarn. A crochet blanket (an example from my shop here) also works up quickly and make a gorgeous holiday present!
LOOM KNITTING:
Boye Round Loom Set
Here is a tutorial for a beanie with a brim while this one teaches you to make a turban earwarmer / headband. I learned about this awesome way to achieve knit-look fabrics through Janine of Knits 'N Knots Wpg and have been hooked (pun intended) ever since.
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WEAVING:
Harrisville Lap Loom
Cotton Warp Thread
Assorted "Bulky" and "Super Bulky" weight yarns
Wood dowel, driftwood or decorative hanger
A kitchen fork
Rachel's blog and book are a superb starting point if you're looking to break in a new lap loom. I also love the technique tips on this blog. Weaving is a fantastic way to use up loose bits of yarn! The most helpful tip I have read thus far is to
MACRAME:
This one will remind you of ALL of the friendship bracelets of your youth. Square knots upon square knots! In addition to the WATG "Jersey Be Good" yarn (pictured above) a great option for use in macrame projects is cotton rope. Here is super simple tutorial to get you started and some other fun how-to videos. You'll need a metal or wood loop to make a plant hanger or a wooden rod/dowel to create a wall hanging.
I hope you find my favorite tools, tips and tricks helpful! Have you tried loom knitting, macrame, crochet or weaving before? Which is your favorite?
Find me on Instagram to follow my crafting adventures @applewoodroad