Crochet Styles - Part 1

Crochet may be a simple craft form – but it is versatile and adapts itself to several distinct styles.

Amigurumi:

The Japanese are well known for their unique style in whatever they do – be it the art of flower arrangement or crochet. What Ikebana is to their flower arrangement, Amigurumi is to their crochet.

Amigurumi is the Japanese art of making anthropomorphic creatures.
Anthropomorphic – means treated as having human feelings.

• The tiny toys made in this style are worked in spirals rather than the usual rounds – there is no joining the last stitch in the round to the first with a slip stitch.
• The crochet hook used is smaller in size (when compared to the yarn you intend to use) than the one you would normally use.
• Using a smaller hook ensures small tight stitches and the stuffing is hardly visible.
• The dolls or toys are worked in pieces and then put together. http://crochetme.com/amigurumi-deconstructed - this link gives you a basic idea of what Amigurumi is all about and the how – to.
• Finishing touches are then given using embellishments like embroidery stitches ready made eyes, nose or ribbons to give the creature its unique personality.
• You’ll find a gallery of creatures you are sure to fall in love with here -

http://crochetme.com/amigurumi-gallery
http://www.gourmetamigurumi.com/main.htm
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tags/amigurumi/

Have fun trying out these little creatures. There naturally is the danger of getting addicted.

Antimacassars – was the name given to crocheted sofa-backs back in the 19th century.
Women these used to protect the fabrics of cushions and sofas from the greasy oil (Macassar – hence the name antimacassar) men considered fashionable to smear their hair with. These sofa backs were crocheted with stiff white yarn. Later, other softer materials were used.

While men may no longer grease their hair, crocheted sofa backs still remain fashionable and add a touch of elegance to your upholstery.

Tags: craft, crochet, crochet pattern, crochet styles, crocheting