If you are looking for a stress release that produces something you can give as a gift or that can be passed down for generations ... give crocheting a try.

In decades gone by, woman all knew how to knit, crochet and sew. In today’s busy world where we buy everything (most with a made in China label), the art is almost lost. When my grandmother was a teenager, she and her friends would make their trendy sweaters, either knitting or crocheting them. If they wanted a new blouse or skirt, they would buy some fabric and make one.

Leaning to crochet is easy. The first step is to go to the store and pick up a crochet hook, some yarn and a beginners book. Decide what you would like to make before buying the yarn, as what you are making will decide what type of yarn you will need.

To crochet a sweater or afghan, you will want a soft fluffy yarn. To crochet a doily, you will need a more coarse yarn. Next, you will need to buy a crochet hook. Again, what you will be making will determine the size of the hook you will need.

Some terms you need to be familiar with:

• Crochet Hook – the instrument used to crochet with
• Hook – the end of the crochet hook
• Loop – the top of each crocheted stitch

Four basic stitches & abbreviations:

• Single Crochet – sc
• Double Crochet – dc
• Half Double Crochet – hdc
• Slip Stitch – sl st

You will also need to know the Triple or Treble Crochet – trc but it is not one of the basic stitches.

To get started purchase some worsted weight yarn and size H aluminum crochet hook. The yarn can be any color you would like, however a light color is best for practice. If you are left-handed, it is recommended that you learn the right-handed way.