You are here:
Crochet/Questions Answered by Expert Frances Rhea
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Reading Crochet Patterns | 6/28/2011 |
| Q: I am still getting grips on how to read some patterns, can you please explain in plain english how ... A: Basically, you make the chain. When the chain is complete, count back to the 4th st from your hook. ... | |
| the letter G | 5/11/2011 |
| Q: I have been trying to find a pattern to crochet the letter G on a babies hat. Cannot seem to find ... A: If you look for 'free filet crochet alphabet' you can find lots of designs that can be used for ... | |
| Simply Shells Afghan by Terry Kimbrough | 5/7/2011 |
| Q: I have finished the basic afghan and want to begin the edging. However, I just don't understand it ... A: If you split each portion into separate pieces, it makes it much easier to manage. For example, if ... | |
| increase size of cap being crocheted | 4/28/2011 |
| Q: I am kind of new at crochet, and I took an adult's size cap and altered it to a kid's size by using ... A: If it is too tight, first go back a row or two to make it slightly bigger by adding a stitch or two ... | |
| fan motif | 4/24/2011 |
| Q: I am looking for a pattern to make a fan shape. I have looked everywhere i can on the internet and ... A: The basics of starting a fan shape is to chain 4. DC at least 6 DC in 1st chain created. The number ... | |
| crochet drop stitch | 2/28/2011 |
| Q: How do you do a crochet drop stitch (not shell drop)...it is started by saying crochet over two ... A: Here is a bunch of them...take your choice: ... | |
| joining motifs and dropping a loop, then picking it up later | 2/27/2011 |
| Q: I am crocheting a Candi Dot Lace Shell. The directions said to crochet one motif square and finish ... A: If you hold the two motifs together like it says you will see holes along the edge where you are ... | |
| Looking for a Pattern | 2/19/2011 |
| Q: I have been looking for a little girls's skirt pattern , the skirt is straight , and in front there ... A: I did find a pattern that is created in a rectangle that you sew up the back, then thread elastic ... | |
| DESIGN ON AFGHAN | 2/1/2011 |
| Q: I AM MAKING A AFGHAN IN THE AFGHAN STITCH THAT WILL MEASURE 66 X 76 INCHES. I HAVE MADE A DESIGN ... A: You will need to make a gauge of 4 x 4 inches in afghan stitch with the yarn you plan on using. You ... | |
| crocheting a rag rug | 1/23/2011 |
| Q: How do you start a round rug. I am using a Q hook and one inch cotton material. I started crocheting ... A: With something so large as rags, I would chain about 6. Then put as many dc stitches in the first ... | |
| changing knitting instructions to crochet | 1/23/2011 |
| Q: Is it possible to change yarn over and knit 2 tog-psso from knitting to crocheting? Thanks, Nancy A: Not really. You can create a hole where the yarn over is by chaining one and then skip a stitch. But ... | |
| crochet gauge | 12/27/2010 |
| Q: I've been crocheting for many years. I am currently trying to make a sweater from a leisure arts ... A: It probably was due to the creator of the pattern. Her stitches were different than the normal. If ... | |
| how to crochet letters on an afghan | 12/19/2010 |
| Q: I hope you can help, I was told to crochet letters onto an afghan I needed to single crochet the ... A: Well, if you don't want to start over, finish the afghan. Crochet a simple chain and form it into ... | |
| Hat is becoming wavy | 12/10/2010 |
| Q: I was taught to crochet years ago by an elderly woman but I have never learned how to read a pattern ... A: Yes, it is possible you are adding an extra stitch on each row. This will only cause a slight ... | |
| How to make | 11/29/2010 |
| Q: What size of hook to use and what type of stitch and how to do this stitch. Thank you! Here's the ... A: What I originally thought was crochet, may be knitting. Either way, it looks like they used large ... | |
| Arm hole shaping | 11/7/2010 |
| Q: The pattern says Armhole Row 4 and 5 Ch 3 work even in shell pattern. After armhole row 5 turn. ... A: In order to help properly, I need to know the directions for the armhole from row 1 to row 6, at ... | |
| Navaho Afghan Pattern | 9/30/2010 |
| Q: Attempting to make a small lap rob for our Veterans. I want to make Navaho pattern but don't know ... A: If you are working from a pattern, there should be a gauge. It will tell you how many stitches and ... | |
| Non Pattern Reader Needing To Make Baby Gift! | 8/20/2010 |
| Q: I've been crocheting and knitting for about 5 years (self taught) and have never attempted anything ... A: If you look closely to the bib selected, you can see it starts with the face and an oval. If you ... | |
| Unraveling crochet from the beginning | 8/11/2010 |
| Q: Is there a way to unravel the crochet from the beginning? I got about halfway done with my baby ... A: Crochet can be undone from the beginning, but is a painful stitch by stitch process. Each part of ... | |
| Continuous granny square blanket | 7/26/2010 |
| Q: I crocheted my granny square and have been crocheting continuously around and around and with each ... A: It is fairly easy to place a stitch where it is not supposed to be, or skip a stitch where it should ... | |
| Saranac Crochet Stitch | 6/27/2010 |
| Q: What stitch are they using in the attached image to create the layed/ribbed look. I found the ... A: It is a single crochet ridge. Here is a page with an example (although done loosely): ... | |
| Altering a baby afghan | 6/8/2010 |
| Q: I want to make my adult son a personalized Afghan but have only found an baby afghan pattern to work ... A: If the pattern is made of baby yarn, use worsted weight. You can also use a larger hook that ... | |
| Afghan Stitch Christmas Stocking | 5/23/2010 |
| Q: I am in need of a pattern for a Christmas Stocking in the Afghan stitch. The only part I need is ... A: You are correct about not finding any afghan stitch xmas stockings. I would think it very difficult ... | |
| Afghan Borders | 5/15/2010 |
| Q: I understand how to add borders to baby blankets, afghans, etc. However, what I don't understand is ... A: If you use the sidebars/spaces of the side stitches, you can have a very nice border around the ... | |
| gauge problems | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: I'm an intermediate crocheter having successfully produced complicated thread projects and even a ... A: Yes, it will make a signigicant difference. You could try to teach yourself to make taller stitches ... | |
| don't understand instructions | 3/24/2010 |
| Q: these instructions are confusing. could you make them a little clearer? MOTIF (Make 36) Section 1: ... A: There is only one small part I would add as noted below: MOTIF (Make 36) Section 1: With A, ch 2. ... | |
| crochet | 2/28/2010 |
| Q: the pattern is asking me to thumb inc in next stitch. do you know how to do this please. A: Since you did not provide the directions, I can't really provide a good answer. I can direct you to ... | |
| sizing | 2/25/2010 |
| Q: I have a pattern for a baby poncho (size 12mths to 2 yrs)which is too small. Can you tell me how to ... A: sorry...I didn't look at the directions at first. There is no simple way to alter the pattern. It ... | |
| Puritan Cotton Thread | 2/20/2010 |
| Q: Does this thread exist? If so where can I find it. Partically the Star Spangled thread. I found ... A: No, it is not made any more. You can use any mercerized cotton thread. Size 10. Here is a shopping ... | |
| Yarn | 2/16/2010 |
| Q: I just started crocheting recently and am planning on crocheting an afghan pattern in a solid color ... A: Sometimes when I have changed yarn types on a pattern, I have run into this problem. A different ... | |
| Granny Square unravelled after washing | 1/26/2010 |
| Q: I just finished a really nice Granny Square blanket for my granddaughter. I wanted it to be soft so ... A: If they are unraveling from the center you definately have a problem with no way to fix it that I ... | |
| increase the pattern size | 1/23/2010 |
| Q: I would like to double the size of the following pattern. I have tried it two different ways & I ... A: The pattern seems to be creating a ripple effect with the dc2tog, and the 2dc in next stitches. The ... | |
| increasing a pattern | 1/23/2010 |
| Q: I am pretty new to crocheting. I need to know how to increase a single crochet baby jacket from a 6 ... A: You can try an even larger size than that. Get several of the larger sizes, and try them out. Making ... | |
| increasing a pattern | 1/23/2010 |
| Q: I am pretty new to crocheting. I need to know how to increase a single crochet baby jacket from a 6 ... A: I would suggest you find another pattern more suitable to that age group as making an item that much ... | |
| sirdar crochet pattern 3383 u k terms | 1/20/2010 |
| Q: . I am making the sirdar crochet matinee coat pattern no 3383 and all is going fine till i get to ... A: You could be very well following directions, because I have had the same thing happen to my work. I ... | |
| increase pattern size | 1/7/2010 |
| Q: Below I have copied the 1st part of an afghan pattern I would like to crochet. I would like to ... A: It looks like a 3-dc group consists of 3 ch, sc, ch 3, dc in each of next 3 ch making a total of 7 ... | |
| increase pattern size | 1/6/2010 |
| Q: Below I have copied the 1st part of an afghan pattern I would like to crochet. I would like to ... A: There is no way to tell from the directions provided. Each pattern normally provides a stitch gauge ... | |
| crochet borders | 12/10/2009 |
| Q: I am working on a squared baby blanket but was hoping if possible to change the pattern up a bit. ... A: If you already have the blanket working in a square, when you are finished with the square you will ... | |
| diamonds ridges pattern | 12/8/2009 |
| Q: I'm new to crochet, but if i have instruction i can easily do anything... more or less. 3 days ago I ... A: Without sitting down and recreating the pattern, it is impossible to provide different instructions. ... | |
| diamonds ridges pattern | 12/8/2009 |
| Q: I'm new to crochet, but if i have instruction i can easily do anything... more or less. 3 days ago I ... A: The best I can explain is that when it says "dc in next st (top of ... in previous row)", it means ... | |
| Crochet instructions guidance | 12/6/2009 |
| Q: I just finished crocheting the front and back pieces of a shirt. The next instructions are: Cont ... A: Evidently the piece continues with the same number of stitches for quite a number of rows, and can ... | |
| Altering a pattern from baby to adult | 12/4/2009 |
| Q: I have a pattern for a baby hat that I would like to make in an adult size. What is the best way to ... A: The pattern should supply a gauge which will give you the dimensions of the hat when finished. For ... | |
| Decrease pattern size | 11/29/2009 |
| Q: I often end up using a larger needle or yarn than a pattern calls for and this causes whatever I'm ... A: The easiest way is to use a lighter weight yarn, and smaller hook. Another alternative is to ... | |
| crochet | 11/28/2009 |
| Q: How to change the number of stitches for afghan/stoles when the number of stitches is given? To me ... A: The repeated portion of the directions is between the *s. You can add a 'multiple of' by counting ... | |
| crochet | 11/27/2009 |
| Q: How to change the number of stitches for afghan/stoles when the number of stitches is given? To me ... A: I could help you understand better if I could read the pattern's first row, and any header info on ... | |
| Increase Crochet Pattern | 11/25/2009 |
| Q: I have a triangular shawl pattern that measures 60 ins x 30 ins. It's a shell pattern. I would ... A: One of the easiest ways to make a pattern that much larger is to use two strands of yarn throughout ... | |
| Crochet | 11/23/2009 |
| Q: How do I make a multiple 10 ch A: If you prefer written instructions, they can be found here: ... | |
| Crocheting a chess board | 11/17/2009 |
| Q: Do you where I can get a pattern for crocheting a chess board? I haven't been able to find ... A: Here is a pattern link for a checkerboard pattern: http://www.crochetnmore.com/checkerboard.htm ... | |
| crochete pattern increasing | 11/16/2009 |
| Q: I have a book of European Sweater (etc.) designs in Crochet. They are all for bust size 32-34. I ... A: Modifying a pattern to make it larger can be difficult. Sometimes using a slightly larger crochet ... | |
| looking for pattern | 11/9/2009 |
| Q: Where may I be able to beg, borrow or buy the Hourglass Afghan Pattern A: I did not find the pattern itself, but found a blogger that is using the pattern. She has had ... | |
| Changing bikini cup size | 11/2/2009 |
| Q: I found a pattern that I want to use but it has the wrong cup size for the bikini top. it is ... A: Big changes...you'll probably have to make the smaller size, and then use it as an example to make ... | |
| finishing sides of afghan | 10/27/2009 |
| Q: I want to finish the sides of my afghan and do not know where the actual stitches are. I am working ... A: When working along the sides, I usually use two of the loops formed by the stitch. Sometimes three ... | |
| baby blanket border | 10/23/2009 |
| Q: my daughter crotched a ripple baby blanket and the straight edges are rolling. She wants to add a ... A: She can easily add a single crochet edging making sure that the edges lay flat and the stitches look ... | |
| making a keyhole or opening | 10/10/2009 |
| Q: I am an advanced beginner and I am trying to make a hooded scarf/vest (copying one my daughter ... A: When you get to the place for the armhole, ch 2 or 3 and turn the row. Work until you have the ... | |
| alter an already created crochet skirt | 9/25/2009 |
| Q: I just finished a knee-length crocket skirt that has one side seam. While making it, I lost weight ... A: You could sew the seam on a sewing machine, but you would have to use a seam that also bound the ... | |
| Sizing Afghan Squares to size. | 9/25/2009 |
| Q: My sister had crocheted an afghan consisting of squares 12" x 12" using the afghan stitch. My job ... A: Are you going to leave it on the plastic canvas, or do you just need it to add your needlework? If ... | |
| Sizing Afghan Squares to size. | 9/24/2009 |
| Q: My sister had crocheted an afghan consisting of squares 12" x 12" using the afghan stitch. My job ... A: You can try to size them by wetting, and then laying out and pinning onto a flat surface to the ... | |
| Crocheting Easy Throw - Curling | 9/19/2009 |
| Q: I'm teaching myself how to crochet (I did some when I was a child) and am having problems with this ... A: I have often found this was true when crocheting. I solved the problem by using a smaller stitch for ... | |
| making sweater soft | 9/5/2009 |
| Q: How do you soften a newborn sweater that seems hard based on the size needle that was used...size ... A: If it is an item that is already completed, there is no way other than using a fabric softener. A ... | |
| Crochet | 8/27/2009 |
| Q: What is the difference in the chevron stitch and the wave stitch in crochet? Thank you for your ... A: Basically they are the same and can be created in sc, dc or a combination of stitches to form puffs, ... | |
| changing yarn weight | 8/23/2009 |
| Q: I want to make a blanket and the pattern states to use two strands of WORSTED WEIGHT yarn crocheted ... A: Well, if you consider that the 4,010 yards needed is half of the total making the two strands, then ... | |
| crochet hat - increasing size | 8/23/2009 |
| Q: Okay, I'll have to find the right way to explain my problem. I have a crochet pattern that I ... A: I have found that with using a larger stitch such as the double crochet that it is better to work an ... | |
| sewing on crochet | 7/23/2009 |
| Q: I recently crocheted a baby blanket--not very carefully apparently because it is no longer square. ... A: If you are good at sewing, you certainly can repair it that way. Maybe pick a wide ribbon for the ... | |
| treble crochet | 5/30/2009 |
| Q: Does a treble crochet stitch always start with 3 chain stitches no matter what the pattern says? A: If I start a row that is using treble crochet (tr), the number of chains depends on the weight of ... | |
| FILET CROCHET REPAIRS | 5/21/2009 |
| Q: I HAVE A PIECE DATED 1899. IT HAS PEACOCKS IN IT. IT ALSO HAS SEVERAL HOLES, SOME LARGE AND SOME ... A: I have never tried to repair an item that was damaged other than taking it apart to rework. Whether ... | |
| wave pattern crochet | 5/18/2009 |
| Q: I have tried about 20 times to crochet a wave pattern afghan but one edge comes out slanted. Help! ... A: To obtain an even edge, do not put a stitch in the end chain unless the pattern specifies to do so. ... | |
| crocheting with no. 18 nylon | 5/11/2009 |
| Q: What kind of patterns can be made out of the nylon no.18 and were can you fine free patterns for ... A: Nylon thread is better for making purses, bags, etc. because of the weight and stiffness. You will ... | |
| free poncho pattern | 5/10/2009 |
| Q: i am looking for a free easy poncho pattern for my grandson who is 8. where can i find one on the ... A: Here are a couple of links to free crochet patterns for a boy's poncho: ... | |
| pricing a crocheted afghan | 5/8/2009 |
| Q: I made an afghan that I would like to sell. Is there a formula of some kind that will help ... A: Not really. I usually take how many hours it took to create an item, and multiply it by the hourly ... | |
| Crochet Bikini or Swimsuit | 5/5/2009 |
| Q: i want to do a Bikini or swimsuit in crochet. Please , tell me which thread or yarn can i use. A: Stay away from 100% cotton as it tends to stretch too much when wet. Acrylic or a blend is best. ... | |
| crochet pattern directions | 5/1/2009 |
| Q: Ch 16 loosely. Row 1 (Right side): 3 Dc in sixth ch from hook, ★ ch ... A: If you follow the first row correctly, there will not be any extra chains left when you finish row ... | |
| crochet pattern directions | 5/1/2009 |
| Q: Ch 16 loosely. Row 1 (Right side): 3 Dc in sixth ch from hook, ★ ch ... A: Row 1 (Right side): 3 Dc in sixth ch from hook, * ch 1, skip next 3 chs, 3 dc in next ch; repeat ... | |
| Altering the size of a crochet blouse | 4/29/2009 |
| Q: I have recently made a crochet top without first checking the gauge and it ended up a size too big. ... A: Unless it was worked from one side to the other instead of top to bottom, or bottom to top, there is ... | |
| Pattern question | 4/26/2009 |
| Q: I am very new to crochet (started yesterday) and I am attempting to create a baby blanket. I have ... A: I saved the image and have put it up on my website since there was no image upload feature on this ... | |
| Pattern question | 4/26/2009 |
| Q: I am very new to crochet (started yesterday) and I am attempting to create a baby blanket. I have ... A: Row 2 is not typical in that the sc is worked between two double crochet stitches from Row 1 instead ... | |
| size of doily | 4/24/2009 |
| Q: I have a pattern which is supposed to be 10 round. It calls for size 12 hook....if I use size 7 ... A: It is impossible to tell how large the doily will be. It also depends on whether you are using the ... | |
| changing a single strand pattern into a double strand pattern to make it thicker and warmer | 4/17/2009 |
| Q: How would I change a pattern if I use a double strand instead of a single strand to make it thick ... A: Any time you change a gauge for a pattern, you must change the number of rows and stitches in your ... | |
| crochet | 4/11/2009 |
| Q: How much yarn do I need for a double crochet H hook queen size afghan if I only use one color? A: If using 4-ply worsted weight yarn with a size H crochet hook, and a double crochet pattern, you ... | |
| Apache Tears Afghan | 3/27/2009 |
| Q: The pattern calls for 16 skeins of 4 ply yarn, but does not give how many ounces in each skein. ... A: You are correct, and each type of yarn also has a number of feet to the skein which also makes a ... | |
| letter G | 3/25/2009 |
| Q: How to make the letter G d A: Creating letters in crochet is called filet crochet. Here is a website that tells you how to read a ... | |
| help crochet name in blanket | 3/18/2009 |
| Q: I am trying to make a blanket an I want to put a name in it can you help i want to have it stitched ... A: There are several ways to add a name to personalize a blanket: Cross Stitch - Following a diagram ... | |
| crochet pattern | 3/15/2009 |
| Q: How do you crochet the Chevron Ridge pattern A: Here are two links. The first is to a rainbow colored ridge stitch at Lion Brand yarns, the second ... | |
| crochet hourglass afghan | 3/13/2009 |
| Q: It consisted of many "blocks" shaped like hourglasses that all fir together when sewn. Someone ... A: I did not find the pattern itself, but found a blogger that is using the pattern. She has had ... | |
| altering crochet pattern | 3/7/2009 |
| Q: Is there any way to alter a pattern from newborn to 24 months? It is the Leisure arts spider edge ... A: It can be done, but is not easy to do. You would need to know the difference in measurements from ... | |
| chignon | 1/8/2008 |
| Q: I am crocheting a bun cover for my 5 year old grandaughter. How do I attach elastic ponytail holder ... A: Yes, that should work. You could also make an edge with holes around it. (Do dc, ch 1 around). Now ... | |
| Granny Square Online Instruction Needed | 1/3/2008 |
| Q: I have been asked to take over a Yahoo Group called, "learning Crochet by the Book." The purpose of ... A: I wish I could help with making a commitment, but I have a bit of a problem. My computer power ... | |
| Crochet - Curling | 1/2/2008 |
| Q: I have begun crocheting a baby's blanket. This is my first piece of work. I am using the hdc for ... A: No, it has nothing to do with tension. In the second paragraph I indicated that when you make the ... | |
| Crochet - Curling | 1/1/2008 |
| Q: I have begun crocheting a baby's blanket. This is my first piece of work. I am using the hdc for ... A: Curling on the edges is caused by having too much yarn at that point. How can you remove too much ... | |
| spaces in pattern | 12/17/2007 |
| Q: I am just learning how to crochet a hat and the pattern says 'Sl st in next ch-1 sp'. I have ... A: The translation is slip stitch is the chain 1 space. Evidently your previous row contained a ch-1 ... | |
| Rambling Roses Afghan (Enlarging Pattern) | 12/6/2007 |
| Q: I was wanting to make this afghan to fit a queen size bed. The Pattern size is 49" x 64". I would ... A: Making an afghan larger is fairly easy, but getting the exact size a little more difficult. If a ... | |
| Daisy Afghan | 12/5/2007 |
| Q: I am desperate for crochet help. I made over 300 daisies on an old daisy wheel, and in trying to ... A: Maryl, I did find one site that has quite a bit of info on daisy wheel looms. Here is the link: ... | |
| Beginner Crocheting Beanie | 11/11/2007 |
| Q: Looking for help.... I know I can go searching for a beginners pattern, but here's the thing..... ... A: I can understand having trouble reading patterns, but learning how is important. That way you don't ... | |
| Hairpin Lace Baby Blanket | 11/5/2007 |
| Q: What size loom & needle do I use to make a hairpin lace baby blanket? How much yarn do I need? ... A: The size you use will depend on how airy you want the blanket. Use larger (1 1/2") for more open ... | |
| vintage patterns | 8/12/2007 |
| Q: I have recently purchased a vintage pattern which tells me to use no, 5 thread and a no,2 hook. ... A: Size 5 crochet thread is still available - just hard to find. So are size 2 crochet hooks. Here ... | |
| enlarging pattern | 8/6/2007 |
| Q: website crochet central under covers in free directory list, Lacy Hat. How can I enlarge this and ... A: Roberta, Finally found it - http://members.optusnet.com.au/we2/lacyhat.html. Please post a link ... | |
| Vintage Pattern Thread and Wire Substitutions | 6/27/2007 |
| Q: I hope you can help me. I know little about crocheting but need help with some patterns for some ... A: Recreating a vintage pattern can be difficult and time consuming. The main reason is what you are ... | |
| MAKING A CROCHET BOLERO JACKET BIGGER | 6/11/2007 |
| Q: I HAVE A PATTERN FOR A CROCHET BOLERO JACKET WITH THE SIZES OF SMALL, MEDIUM, AND LARGE. I WEAR A ... A: Adding eight chains at the beginning is correct. Use the same method of calculation on the rest of ... | |
| four color bookmark | 6/4/2007 |
| Q: fran, pattern is: http://www.angelfire.com/art/bubomara/free/foru colorbook.html In the middle of ... A: By 3 sc in next 3 sc but joined together, they meant that you decrease over the next 3 sc. For ... | |
| question re : yarn | 5/1/2007 |
| Q: I have 2 patterns for scrubbers. first is asking for nylon plastic canvas yarn. I cannot find this ... A: Roberta, I can't find anything on netting yarn. When I searched for 'nylon plastic canvas yarn', I ... | |
| Problems with hats coming out too big | 4/28/2007 |
| Q: I have crochet two hats using the same pattern. One hat I used Red Heart worsted weight acrylic ... A: Each pattern has a recommended yarn (specific weight) and hook along with a gauge. Whatever yarn you ... | |
| Baby Afghan Pattern, Crocheting in Rounds | 4/25/2007 |
| Q: I am trying to crochet this baby afghan but i am having a hard time understanding this particular ... A: You said "The way i understand it is: chain 6, join with a slip stitch to make a round." Round is ... | |
| CROTCHET | 4/13/2007 |
| Q: HOW DO YOU SWITCH COLORS OF YARN IN AN AFGHAN STITCH > ALSO WHEN DOING A SINGLE CROTCHET STITCH IN A ... A: Here are some examples of working with multiple colors: ... | |
| using crochet thread instead of 4-ply yarn | 4/9/2007 |
| Q: I have a snood pattern that calls for 4-ply yarn & I want to use crochet thread to give a finer ... A: Unless you are experienced at crochet/knitting it should not be attempted. You will need to ... | |
| Joining double crocheted squares | 4/1/2007 |
| Q: I've just completed about 20 rectangles using only double crochet stitch. The squares are about 3x6 ... A: Depending on how rippled it is, you could try an edging with a combination of dc, hdc and sc around ... | |
| finding yarn | 3/22/2007 |
| Q: I am trying to find pink fingering yarn with a nylon thread running through it. Bernat sparkle is a ... A: When searching for 'pink fingering yarn', I found the following interesting yarn sales: Lisa Souza ... | |
| Curling | 3/14/2007 |
| Q: I am a beginner. I want to crochet scarves and 7x9" squares for charity blankets. Why does my work ... A: Often when working with crochet, a pattern calls for a chain at the beginning of a row (i.e., ch3 or ... | |
| converting patterns | 2/19/2007 |
| Q: I can't crochet but I have a knifty Knitter. Can I use crochet patterns? Or knitting patterns? ... A: You have to first keep in mind that the knifty knitter has a very large gauge. That means it is not ... | |
| help on making beret | 2/13/2007 |
| Q: I have asked about this pattern before, but since my stoke my cognitive skills ie math calculations ... A: Since Imagine is a worsted weight yarn, you can substitute another worsted weight yarn with good ... | |
| Round Crochet Gauge | 2/7/2007 |
| Q: I have a pattern that says the gauge is the first four rounds equal 2 1/2 inches. So I am wondering ... A: If the pattern is for a doily or similar object that starts with a small center and then gets ... | |
| lion brand beanie cap bk4k-0612011 | 1/31/2007 |
| Q: If I used 2 strands of suede. or one suede and one 4ply worsted, would that work. ballpark how many ... A: Roberta, The pattern should have a gauge for the yarn they specify. This is the gauge you need to ... | |
| lion brand beanie cap bk4k-0612011 | 1/30/2007 |
| Q: can I change yarn to lion suede and change stitch from sc to hdc working in back loop as pattern ... A: If you do so, you should be an advanced crocheter as it will take some adjustment to the number of ... | |
| beret | 1/30/2007 |
| Q: pattern is from Michaels.com website. Beret done with F hook and red heart royale fashioncrochet #3 ... A: The thread that is called for in the pattern at Michaels is similar to the Fashion Shimmer. I did ... | |
| filet crochet and crewel embroidery | 1/28/2007 |
| Q: frances, thanks for answer. I hate to be a pain, but I am having the same problem on crewel ... A: Here is the info for crewel embroidery: http://home.comcast.net/~kathydyer/nf_xstitch_tut.html ... | |
| filet crochet | 1/28/2007 |
| Q: I really would like to learn how to filet crochet. I don't understand the graphs,etc. are there ... A: Here are some places with great filet crochet tutorials and easy to aard patterns: ... | |
| alter pattern | 1/26/2007 |
| Q: pattern called Bev's easy slippers. Her website is Bev's Country Cottage. I am using Bernat soft ... A: 1. Yes, I would. 2. It would not be as sturdy. Working both loops makes a pattern more secure. 3-4. ... | |
| yarn table runner | 1/13/2007 |
| Q: can I convert the following yarn table runner by using number,20,30 or bedspread weight . Hope you ... A: You can use any of them. Since the pattern is based on 38 sts, multiply 38 by any number to get the ... | |
| turtle neck warmer for 10 year old boy. | 1/3/2007 |
| Q: I cannot find a pattern for neck warmer for 10 year old boy.can you direct me to any sites. Or ... A: I could not find any crochet patterns for a turtleneck anything. I did find this one design that may ... | |
| Making an Afghan Pattern | 12/29/2006 |
| Q: Is there some type of formula to alter patterns, either to make them larger or smaller? As you can ... A: No, there is no tried and true method to make a pattern larger or smaller. Each pattern depends on ... | |
| Making an Afghan Pattern "Smaller" | 12/29/2006 |
| Q: I have a pattern for an "Apache Tears" afghan. It chains 254 and I would like to make it half the ... A: Found the pattern here: http://www.citiusa.com/apache.html According to the pattern it is 50 ... | |
| detailed altering of pattern | 12/7/2006 |
| Q: this is a follow up . Original"hi Frances, I want to convert "Autumn Leaves Fridgie" pattern to ... A: Basically, you make a chain of a specific number of stitches and work the first part like any ... | |
| cfrochet instruction | 11/28/2006 |
| Q: I am working on pattern called Autumn Leaves Fridgie. I am going to do it in Xmas colors as a ... A: by working in the opposite side of the chain, it means that you are going to turn the piece at the ... | |
| hanging plant holder | 11/24/2006 |
| Q: Frances, I am trying the jpfunclub pattern.HOwever I am using a J hook. Will this help me to enlarge ... A: Yes, it can make it slightly larger by using a larger hook. As for the next rounds, I have not ... | |
| hanging plant holder | 11/23/2006 |
| Q: have a 10" hanging plant. I am looking for a simple crochet pattern to cover plant and hang on ... A: Here is a simple one: http://members.aol.com/lffunt/plantsling.htm Or try the hanging fruit basket ... | |
| Crochet pattern | 11/17/2006 |
| Q: I am looking for crochet directions for a skull cap for men. Do you have website that you may know ... A: Here are some pattern links: Yarmulka: http://crochetpartners.org/Patterns/CPpat123.html ... | |
| nylon crochet thread | 11/12/2006 |
| Q: My question was in response to another post. Its JP Coats nylon crochet threadi'm beginning to think ... A: The JP Coats nylon thread is a size 18 thread; Omega comes in a size 20 which should be similar (but ... | |
| nylon crochet thread | 11/11/2006 |
| Q: i'm beginning to think thread is not the best word for this product. JP Coats is my source but has ... A: Since you did not mention which JP Coats yarn you were using, it is impossible to tell. (Also I ... | |
| crochet question | 10/26/2006 |
| Q: After ] twice,2sc in next sp, sc in next dc*,sc in next sp, sc in next dc, rep from *to*once**,sc in ... A: Skip the first 9 ch-1 spaces to the right of where you joined the garment. Using the size D hook, ... | |
| crochet question | 10/26/2006 |
| Q: How to work it. i can't work it , Don't understand. thank you . joanQuestion is, I have a pattern it ... A: Obviously you have already make the bottom part of the garment. The back yolk is the part that goes ... | |
| clarify pattern instructions | 10/14/2006 |
| Q: I am making what I thought were a simple pair of slippers using mainly a SC stich. However there is ... A: I can't be certain since you did not supply the complete pattern up to the point you don't ... | |
| gauge problem | 10/7/2006 |
| Q: I found an "easy" sweater pattern in the new Interweave magazine that I want to try, but I can't get ... A: They are evidently different thicknesses. I do not have a store to compare them, but from the photos ... | |
| aunt lydias yarn | 9/23/2006 |
| Q: My table topper pattern calls for Aunt Lydias Denim yarn. Can I substitute above with Aunt Lydias ... A: I do not have a store that has both brands near me to compare them. I know that the Denim is a ... | |
| crocheting in ends of rows | 9/23/2006 |
| Q: I am a beginner and have come across an instruction in my afghan pattern that I do not understand. I ... A: You almost gave me enough info...I need the very first part of the pattern before rnd 1. Tell me ... | |
| increase size | 9/9/2006 |
| Q: I have found a pattern for a simple baby sweater but is for only 6 months how to I increase this ... A: What you are asking is not an easy task and I would not recommend it for someone who is not very ... | |
| nylon thread | 9/6/2006 |
| Q: I am looking at where to purchase nylon crochet thread. There is a pattern for a nylon purse in ... A: Here are a couple of links to some navy nylon crochet thread: ... | |
| Pattern alteration | 9/1/2006 |
| Q: I am working on a simple cardigan sweater pattern, and I am having trouble achieving the gauge (5 ... A: Add the number of stitches to 2 inches to make gauge (i.e., if 7sts=2", then add 2 stitches to every ... | |
| edgings for table runner | 8/22/2006 |
| Q: I bought a cloth table runner and I want to add a decorative easy trim to it without having to sew a ... A: If it is a fairly loose weave runner, you can use a small crochet hook with crochet thread to create ... | |
| Crochet Thread differences | 7/14/2006 |
| Q: I have alot of vintage crochet patterns and they talk about using thread sizes like Article 40 or ... A: There is no chart or info that I know of. Most old patterns though are Crochet Thread #10 if it is ... | |
| wagon wheel 7 inch square | 7/13/2006 |
| Q: Fran, I think I will go ahead with your suggestion. However I do nor have the savy to adust ... A: Here are some granny squares that will be easier to adapt to a larger square: ... | |
| wagon wheel 7 inch square | 7/12/2006 |
| Q: Please go to crocht cenral.com and you will find alphsbetiacally the pattern. How do I enlarge this ... A: Sometimes it is not as simple as repeating one row. First you should know that it will not look like ... | |
| yarn substitution for afghan | 7/5/2006 |
| Q: ------------------------- fran, thanks so much for your help. I am looking for a granny squre ... A: It would be best to use a simple granny square. That way you would just keep repeating the pattern ... | |
| Crochet Thread | 5/11/2006 |
| Q: I'm making my 3rd christening dress for a new granddaughter. I can't find soft quality crochet ... A: Try one of these: ... | |
| crochet question | 3/20/2006 |
| Q: I've only been crocheting for a few years and this is the first time I've tempted this type of ... A: First you are crocheting a rectangular piece. When you finish it off, start at the bottom of it ... | |
| crochet bathing suit design | 3/5/2006 |
| Q: I am looking for an open back tankini style crochet swim suit. I have seen many bikini sets but my ... A: Yes, it is possible to get one...at a price. I do not know of any patterns. You would have to scour ... | |
| can you make me? | 2/21/2006 |
| Q: I love the crochet bathing suit on Paisley Babylon's sold archive site! Do you think you could make ... A: I did not see a crochet swimsuit in her sold archive. I saw a lace swimsuit. Is that the one you ... | |
| locker hooking | 11/1/2005 |
| Q: do you know what locker hooking is? If so, please explain it to me. Thank you,Lynn A: It's funny you asked. My sister taught me how to do it when I was in Colorado a few months ago. ... | |
| Enlarging an afghan pattern | 10/19/2005 |
| Q: I have a pattern for a 'throw' - finished size 48 x 63. I would like to make it larger . . . about ... A: First look at the pattern and make a sample of your yarn and needle that is at least 4" square. ... | |
| Decreasing rows at the beginning of pattern | 10/12/2005 |
| Q: I desperately need help. I am working on a baby afghan. I have finished and am ready to start the ... A: Taking things apart backwards like you are talking of doing is a very long process as you can't just ... | |
| straight sides | 9/9/2005 |
| Q: I understand what you mean about one too many stiches in each row, but I didn't understand your ... A: Well, this is gonna be a crude example: 0 0 0000000X If the 0s are the ... | |
| straight sides | 9/8/2005 |
| Q: I seem to be having the same problem. I am a beginner crocheter. I croched a blanket for my baby ... A: You are putting one too many stitches in each row. This happens when you use the first stitch as the ... | |
| Yarn substitution | 8/18/2005 |
| Q: I want to crochet some of the purse patterns from the 1940's, but they require gimp or cordet, ... A: Try one of these: http://www.ourtownusa.net/~yarnyard/jpcnylon.htm ... | |
| crochet fastening off | 8/16/2005 |
| Q: I am having trouble fastening off and also do not understand how to attach new yarn when you run out ... A: There are several methods to achieve adding a new yarn, ending, and weaving in loose ends. Here are ... | |
| crochet pattern | 7/10/2005 |
| Q: I am working on a doll dress. Instructions says to put Half double crochet in first three stiches, ... A: When you decrease in crochet, it means to work two stitches together. For your pattern, put a hdc in ... | |
| yarn substitute? | 5/16/2005 |
| Q: does not list guage.it has tension 13 1/2sts and 7 1/2 rows to 2 in.over patternworked on 2.50 ... A: If that is the case, then it is a baby weight or light sport weight. The tension is the same as a ... | |
| yarn substitute? | 5/15/2005 |
| Q: i have a pattern book from the early 70's.printed in the u.k.there is a pattern of a halter top.it ... A: Here is a chart for hook conversions: http://www.planetshoup.com/easy/tips/convcroc.shtml The size ... | |
| sewing and crochet | 4/20/2005 |
| Q: I was wondering if there was a way to "sew" fabric and something that was crocheted like a blanket ... A: There are no particular directions but I don't see why you couldn't. Lay it on the fabric and pin it ... | |
| Crocheting | 2/23/2005 |
| Q: I taught myself how to crochet (as I do everything else) and find it hard to do *any* projects ... A: Here are some links that should help: http://www.knitting-crochet.com/crochet/crostiand.html ... | |
| Crochet gauge | 2/12/2005 |
| Q: I have bee3n crocheting for about 20 yrs - not important just info. To me my crocheting is done ... A: You don't have to give up, just get a finer yarn. Baby yarn is a fairly fine yarn. Take a piece of ... | |
| crochet lessons | 1/22/2005 |
| Q: I would like to learn different stitches on crocheting. I can not read patterns, it's all greek to ... A: Video Tutorials: http://www.stitchguide.com/stitches/crochet/index.html Alice's Wonderland (4 ... | |
| Crochet hook size | 10/27/2004 |
| Q: Can you tell me what letter size a number 9 crochet hook is. I have a pattern calling for a number ... A: A number 9 is not a letter size. It is smaller. Hooks start out at size 14 as the smallest and go up ... | |
| Crochet Gauges | 9/28/2004 |
| Q: In making a hat- Unsure how to gauge for a hat? Do you need to have a gauge for a hat? Thank you A: The guage is normally dependent on what type of yarn you are using when working from a pattern. You ... | |
| Skull Cap | 9/27/2004 |
| Q: Fran, Thank you so much for the 2 different websites, it is making some sense to me. I have another ... A: Back horizontal strand is the back of the stitch. This is generally on a hdc or dc. It is the loop ... | |
| Skull Cap | 9/27/2004 |
| Q: I have a friends grandson who wants to make his own skull cap version. This is for a school project. ... A: That is almost the way to do it but not quite. Start with the chain and join. Then instead of ... | |
| My crocheting does not lay... | 9/13/2004 |
| Q: My crocheting does not lay flat. It is always curling at the corners. I have checked how I hold ... A: I have found that working with some projects that I needed a slightly smaller stitch at the end of ... | |
Crochet
Answers by Expert:
Frances Rhea
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I can answer questions about materials to use, hook sizes, altering patterns, care of products, using knitting and crochet together to create a unique garment - almost anything to do with crochet.
Experience
I have been crocheting since I was five.
Education/Credentials
I have been crocheting since I was five.
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.