I was chatting with my friend Lisa yesterday and we were comparing knitting projects. Since I’d once tried to teach her how to crochet – over the internet, no less – and she knows that knitting is my second language, she wanted to know which I liked better.
I can’t really decide. I like crocheting because when you make a mistake and rip something out, it’s a heck of a lot easier. I like the rhythm of knitting, the click of the needles. I like the fabric of knitting more because it’s more delicate. Crocheting, by the nature of the stitch, is denser and sturdier, I think, but less attractive. I will mention that crochet designers are doing a wonderful job these days in updating the whole look of crocheted projects and making them feel hipper and trendier. And if there’s one area that I think crocheting beats knitting hands down on it’s in making afghans. Oh sure, there are lovely knitted afghans out there, I know. I’ve even made a couple myself. But back to that sturdy thing – to snuggle up in a crocheted afghan in the winter is a wonderful thing.
Whether you like the old-fashioned granny square done in mellow, homey colors or a bright and cheerful ripple stitch there are so many options. Lap sized, throw sized, baby blankets or big enough for two to snuggle under.
So this week’s pattern may get you thinking about Christmas in July, but what better way to look ahead to the frosty days to come?
This crocheted afghan comes from the Lions Brand people and is simply called Afghan Squared. Done in their new brand of yarn called “Vanna’s Choice” (endorsed by TV letter turner Vanna White) in two shades of rose, dusty green, and linen in a simple rounds, wouldn’t this be nice to come home to after a long day of shopping?
Click the picture to get the free pattern. (Note: Registration may be required. But it’s worth it – there are some great patterns here!)
And here’s a tip I learned while reading the pattern. Since you change colors on each round of the afghan, join each new color in a different corner on each round to keep the afghan square.
For those of you who enjoy needlework, do you have a favorite? If you’re a knitter, have you ever tried crocheting? Or those of you who’ve never tried knitting but can crochet like a fiend, why haven’t you tried knitting? What would make you go over to the dark side for a project?
