Be Stylish With Your Own Work…Make A Crochet Poncho

You can now make a fashion statement with your crocheted project. Crochet ponchos are getting more popular nowadays even with celebrities. Its soft texture and stylish design makes it a must to include in your wardrobe.

If you are into crocheting, you can make your own poncho that will fit you perfectly and suit your taste. There are several designs and patterns available in the World Wide Web that you can access and follow for your personal use. Here are some examples of the different crochet poncho designs that you can choose:

- Adult Poncho Sweater. This poncho pattern from Emerald Moon Creations is a sexy kind of poncho sweater as it has the curve in the right place. It has a wide neckline with sleeves falling just above the elbow and a v-shaped, wavy bottom edges.

- Arizona Poncho. This wide poncho from Brons Fiber Stuff is more like a rectangular poncho. When laid flat, it looks like a huge piece of crocheted square pattern with a hole in the middle. This one is simple and easy to make.

- Asymmetrical Cross-Stitch Poncho. From Craftown, and contributed by a certain designer named Cristina Heredia, this asymmetrical poncho is striking because of the color used. It uses the cross stitch pattern and can easily be followed even by beginners. This crochet poncho is like a simple rectangular one but with one side pointed or longr than the other.

- Bead-trimmed Crochet Poncho. Here is a different variation of the usual poncho. It looks light and very comfortable to wear. What makes it different are the bead trimmings on the bottom edges of the poncho. It is easy to do yet the output is elegant-looking.

- Beauty in Bloom Poncho. This light blue, wide-necked ponchette is very lady like. Its length just reaches slightly above the waistline. It also has dark blue flower patterns just below the neckline. A free pattern for this crochet poncho can be found in Crochet Pattern Central.

- Gentle Ripples Poncho. A crochet poncho good for plus-sized women, this one has a simple A-type cut that falls up to the thighs. The ripple pattern used is easy to follow, even a beginner can do. This one is designed by the Crochet bythehook site owner named Dot.

- Black and White Poncho. This all v-shaped black and white crochet poncho is ideal during the colder months. Its stitches are close together that will surely give you the softness and warmth you need during winter. The pattern for this crochet poncho is found at Crochetlady’s page in Angel Fire.

- Springtime Poncho. Designed by Marie of Crochet Me, this spring-inspired poncho is ideal for bigger women. It has a low neckline that falls like the shape of a bell. This one is ideal to wear during the warmer months as it has wide-spaced stitches. Those who want a much smaller size for this design just need to use a smaller hook.

- Petite Poncho. This petite crochet poncho is for your little ones. It has an almost-off-shoulder neckline with stitches that ends up to the midrib, then tied to form groups of strands to form the bottom design. It is definitely easy to follow and makes your little girls prettier than ever.

- Town and Country Poncho. A plain white crochet poncho, this one looks best over a slim black dress. It looks simple yet very fashionable. It also provides a fresh look to the person wearing it. This pattern was classified as easy, so even beginners can do this. The pattern is found in the Lion Brand collection of patterns.

- Monster-In-Law Poncho. Yet another asymmetrical crochet poncho, this pattern has different pastel colors which makes it look fresh in the eyes. Its bottom are formed by groups of strands tied on the bottom edge of the stitches. This pattern can be printed out from the Lion Brand web site.

These are just a few examples of the different crochet poncho patterns you can find in the internet. There are much more in books and magazines in your local book shop. So whether you are just a first timer in this cool hobby or an advanced needle worker, there is a pattern available for you. Even the most stylish and fashionable poncho can be done by just a beginner. So what are you waiting for? Start hunting now for that unique pattern and begin crocheting! Have fun!

One of the most important decisions you must make when you knit is what yarn to use for your project. The yarn you choose has everything to do with how your finished project looks and stands up to time and wear. The last thing you want to do is spend hours making something only to have it fall apart in the wash, or look worn out after the second wearing. Taking the time to choose just the right yarn will help make your knitting projects a success.

Here are the answers to your top seven knitting yarn questions:

1. How do I learn about all of the different yarns? The easiest place to learn about yarn is by simply reading and comparing labels. Yarn labels include such information as the brand name, the fiber content of the yarn, the color name and number, the dye lot number, the number of piles or strands, the weight classification of the yarn, the knitting and crochet gauge, cleaning instructions, and the length of the yarn itself. By reading the labels and comparing them to each other, you can easily learn all you need to know about yarn.

2. Why do I care about yarn weight classification? The term “yarn weight classification” does not refer to the actual physical weight of the yarn, as you might have guessed it would. Rather, the yarn weight classification refers to the diameter of the yarn strand. The smaller the strand, the smaller the weight, and vice versa…

3. Can I use a different yarn brand than my pattern calls for? Generally the answer is yes. You will want to knit a test swatch and make sure your gauge is correct before knitting your entire project though.

4. What is yarn gauge? Gauge is the number of stitches and rows in every inch of knitting. Gauge is specified on patterns to assure that the end project is true to size. Because everyone knits differently, it is very important to make a test swatch with your project needles and yarn to check to make sure your gauge matches that of the pattern you are working with. Gauge is especially important when working with clothing.

5. Can I substitute one yarn weight for another one? Generally the answer is no. Because your yarn weight has a lot to do with the finished size and look of a project, by using a yarn of a different weight you risk your project coming out the wrong size. Generally you cannot substitute yarn weights unless you are making something like a blanket or scarf where it will not matter as much and you can easily adjust your project for the change in size.

6. What is a dye lot and why do some yarns have one and others do not? Dye lot numbers refer to the batch a skein of yarn was in when it was dyed at the factory. Because dying is not an exact science, the same color yarn, from different dye lots, can appear to be two different colors. This is why you should always purchase enough yarn to complete your project all from the same dye lot if at all possible.
Some yarns and fibers do not list a dye lot number because the fibers are colored first and then the yarns are made. This means there are no dye lots available for the yarn.

7. How do I care for my knitted fabrics? The easiest way to know how to care for a knitted fabric is to check on the laundering instructions on the yarn label. Generally you will want to hand wash all of your hand knitted items in a mild detergent and then dry them flat. If you do not have a yarn label, you can sometimes find similar yarn at your local craft store and read that yarn’s label for care directions.

As you foray into the art of crochet, there will be times where you want to add some stiffness to your finished work. This is the case when you are crocheting items such as handbags, doilies, and certain kinds of lace. Stiffening your yarns or fibers can easily be accomplished by starching your projects with a variety of different stiffening mediums. Starching has been around for a very long time and with the different options available today for starching; you can find just the right one for your project.

Classic Starching

The oldest form of starching is simply to dissolve ¼ cup starch in ½ cup of cold water. Take this mixture and bring it to a boil slowly over a low flame. As the mixture begins to thicken up, gradually add 1 ¼ cups of cold water. Boil the mixture while stirring constantly until the mixture becomes clear. This will leave you with a think pasty type mixture.

As soon as your starch mixture is cool enough to safely be handled, dip in your crochet work and squeeze the starch into it thoroughly. Your goal is to soak your project with the starch but not to have it in the holes or any openwork in your project. At this point you will want to allow your project to dry in the position you want it to be in when the starching process is completed.

Once your item is completely dry, you can iron it with a steam iron on a medium setting.

Spray Starch

An easier way to stiffen your crochet items is to use spray starch. Spray starch is readily available in the laundry detergent area of any of your local grocery or drug stores. To use spray starch you will want to use one of two methods.

Method one is to lightly spray your piece and the press it using a warm iron, on the wrong side, covered with another material in-between your item and your iron.

Method two is to lightly spray your piece and then pin it in place and allow it to dry. If you choose to pin your pieces, make sure you use rust proof pins so you do not get any staining on your finished crochet work.

Spray starch is perfect for household items and holds up under normal wear. However, it is not permanent and if you wash your item then you will need to starch it again.

Liquid Starch

Using liquid starch allows you to control the stiffness of your piece very easily. You have the option of using the starch straight from the bottle, or diluting it with water and having a less stiff piece as a result. The process is identical to the directions above for classic starching.

Stiff Stuff

There is a great product on the craft market called “Stiff Stuff.” And, just as the name implies, it is used to starch craft items and handiwork. The process is exactly the same as using spray starch; however, your resulting item will be very stiff. And, if you wish to hasten the process you can use a blow dryer to dry the starch faster. Stiff Stuff is not permanent and will wash out if you wash your piece.

White Glue and Water

If you are looking for a permanent starching option, you can accomplish it by using white glue and water. Simply mix together equal parts of white glue and water. Dip your crochet item into this mixture and squeeze out the excess. Lay your piece on a hard non-stick surface to dry and you will have a permanently starched end product.

Shellac

Shellac is used in the case where you want a very firm finished product. Simply shape your piece and using a small brush add a thin layer of shellac. Let this layer dry, and then apply 2-3 more coats on top of it. Once your item is dry the shellac is permanent and your item will be very hard to the touch. Shellac is perfect for use on things like crocheted Christmas tree ornaments and bookmarks.

By using these techniques, you can ensure that your crochet projects are starched like a professional and will last for many years to come.

From an expert’s approach, a crochet is the method use to produce a fabricated product from long threads and yarns. Crochet is simply derived from the French word “croche” which means to make a hook or loop. It is always associated when it comes to stitches, thread, and creating patterns of fabric materials from creating a slipknot on the hook.

The process of pulling another knot on the hook to the second loop and repeating the process continuously to make a chain of stitches is called a crochet. The way the chains of stitches are made must be in rows or they are combined from a step-by-step chain connection in rounds of creating a crochet. A single loop of crochet can also be created depending on the rounds that were used in the chain of stitches.

The stitches are made in the process of pulling multiple loops in the center of another loop of the chain. This process explains why the crochet pattern differentiates from a knitted fabric material where the crochet pattern is made entirely on chains of loops and single hook stitches that will leave a free space on the ends of the thread and pulling it on the last loop of the pattern.

To create different crochet products like a crochet hat, he must consider the use of different supply materials to come up with a crochet made hat. A yarn is very important supply to create a crochet hat.

He may consider the use of different colors and textures in creating the design he would like to have in a crochet hat. Almost all yarn outlines need to have specific types of yarns. The types of yarns, which are commonly used in crochet, include sport or baby yarn, chunky yarn, bulky yarn, baby or fingering yarn, and the worsted weight yarn.

These yarns vary in their textures and thickness. The fingering or baby type of yarn should be the best yarn to create a crochet hat. It has the finest number of strands in its ply. Although most yarns are made of natural fibers or synthetic strands, they can also be combined to make yarns acrylic, which are most convenient for people wash and wear these kinds of crochet hats and other crochet products.

Another tool needed to create a crochet hat is the crochet hook. It is used to slip the knot on the ends by pulling the loops of the thread and sliding them through the crochet stitches. They come in wood, plastic, or aluminum, where they are more popular and commonly known.

Sometimes they serve as size markings to some patterns that may involve lettering designs. Those big crochet hooks are 19 millimeters while the small ones are 2.25 millimeters. Some crochet hats with larger patterns may need larger crochet hooks that may come in sizes of 6 inches.

Another supply that he may need is the knitting needles. They are commonly straight and very thin. They are also made of wood, plastic, and aluminum. He may find knitting needles with different sizes as well.

They range from 2 millimeters as the smallest and the sizes 15 millimeters as the largest. He may buy these tools in pairs where they feature a knob and a pointed end to the needles that help prevent any stitches from loosening and sliding out from their place.

Now he may start choosing what type of crochet hat he would like to create. He may have the option of different types of hats such as:

1. Crocheted plastic bag hat, which are designed to have a variety of colors with highlighted letterings on the outline.

2. He may also want to create a Brimmed straw hat, which is mostly made of cotton.

3. Creative preemie hats, which are made of large designs of preemie. He can make a smaller version by lessening the number of double crochet on the first rows. It may depend on the patterned yarn that is used for this hat.

4. Pompom hats are mostly made of 100 percent wool, which is outlined on a one crochet hook.

5. Amish hat is made of 100 percent wool yarn, and the ruffled hat which is also pretty and can be made if it is crocheted.

The supplies and tools are very essential in making these different crochet hats. The texture and the way he had made the crochet hat would result to a better design no matter what kind of crochet hat he would like to create.

When babies are born, the body is very sensitive from the heat and the cold. To make sure that the infant is protected all times, getting clothes that have double stitching can really help.

Since most of the clothes are cotton or made of thicker fabric, clothes with crochet patterns will do the trick and make the baby look fashionable in the outdoors.

Some good designs for the baby could be represented in the form of farm animals. An example could be a little lamb, a rabbit and a chick. Others could be about nature in the form of a flower that symbolize the birth and growth of the infant.

The baby can have clothes from top to bottom using crochet patterns. The hat can be entirely covered in using a single color then a few things can be added on the sides. The most common even for adults is having lines, shapes or other figures along the sides. A design on the top like a star or circles will also make it stand out.

The person should also give the baby gloves but should choose strong fabric that will not tear away easily and is inhaled by the infant.

The top can be like a cape or a sweater to give added warmth for the baby. Giving it some double stitching and perhaps using multi-colored fabric is a good idea making it unique. The bottom for the baby can also be made using light and dark colors. This should also be thick to give protection from the temperature outside.

Crochet patterns are not only limited on the clothes for the baby. This can also be used to accessorize the things that are used. A good example is the milk bottle. Some plain color stitching can make it easier to hold and not slip when it is used to feed the infant.

Since the baby is covered from head to toe, crochet patterns can also be made for the socks. The person should first measure the feet of the infant then after drawing it on paper, can start working on it. There should be some allowance perhaps a size bigger so that the infant may still use this for more than a year.

To complete the collection from clothes to all the other baby essentials, the person can also make a wash cloth using crochet patterns. This is easy to make since special add-ons are not necessary to make it work. The holes in between can be big or small and depends entirely on the taste of the parent.

As the baby grows older, other things can be made. A very good example is the swimsuit. A lot of these ideas are used for older women and if these people can do it, so can the baby. Infants can have this in bright colors with creatures like a fish on it.

Sweaters and a hat can now have better designs which will be very similar to the versions of grown-ups.

The parent has the option to buy these ready made crochet patterns in the mall or do it in the comforts of home. There are many instructional books and designs that can be downloaded free from the internet to make this happen.

This task will be easy if the person has done some cross-stitching in the past. The instructions given are very similar and with a little practice, this can be done right away.

The materials for this project can be purchased at the specialty store that sells threads of different widths and different colors. Some are multicolored which will make it easy for the person to finish it faster. This place also has needles of various lengths to be used for the job.

Crochet patterns for babies are cute. All it takes is for the person to be imaginative and look at some material to have an idea on how to make it. The clothes and other accessories are just smaller versions that people normally do which will cut the production time.

By taking the time to sit down and do it, the parent may have a sufficient wardrobe that is sufficient for daily use.