Oh To Crochet Chain

The book “Hip To Be Square” by Katie Jones & my crochet chain

I’ve recently begun the challenge of learning to crochet. The journey began when I found the book Hip To Be Square by Katie Jones. The bright colors and overall aesthetic of the book grabbed me instantly as I was perusing a crafting shop with my mother. My parents had always provided a place for my siblings and I to craft and make whatever our minds could muster, so the shop itself was a comfortable & familiar place with all the supplies available to purchase. This book though, did what maybe you can relate to, ignited a small flame and the notion of “I can do that”.

The book has provided illustrations and all the definitions of stitches and techniques, and is largely around creating “Granny Squares”, the foundation for most all the projects within. The book remains a foundational inspiration for my desire to crochet, but I have also ventured on the internet and found relevant YouTube channels to see all the different stitches in action. Double Treble Stitches, Single Crochet, Half Treble, Slip Stitch, so many terms and also terms that cross between US and UK terminology, being the same name, but a different stitch. I have no doubt I’ll have all the stitches sorted in my brain, but for now they are a bit of a jumbled mess. I will master all the stitches before I can master any of the Granny Squares. Or maybe I’ll just jump in. What I do appreciate across most of the creators I have found teaching crocheting is that they all encourage you to do it your way. One YouTube channel I’m quite liking is HappyBerry Crochet. The creators on this channel are Laura & Misi, and they are a delightful and soothing entry into learning to crochet!

Before I can tackle any of the eye candy that is the sweaters or squares within the book, I must master my chain. After a few hours of making a chain, unraveling it, and starting over, my little v’s are becoming more and more even. The beginning bit of yarn I’m using is becoming more and more haggled, but I’m content to run it into the ground practicing my crochet chain and other stitches. It’s been some time since I’ve learned a new skill and I find the frustration and growth to be invigorating. This is the best kind of struggle.

I hope to keep with the skill, and to show the fruits of my labor soon!

Have a good day or whatever.