admin, Author at Little Shop for Yarners

Happy International Crochet Day, Little Shoppers! We almost missed it but thankfully one of the Mr Yarners reminded us just in time.

Get hooked on crochet

There’s never been a better time to pick up a hook and learn to crochet if you’ve never done it before. Video tutorials are popping up all over the internet. Patterns are freely available or very cheap on sites like Etsy and Ravelry. And there are endless inspo posts on Instagram.

Lots of people, including me, find crochet to be very soothing and even a bit therapeutic. If I sit down in the evening with Himself and a show on the TV I can crochet away and it keeps my mind and hands occupied. This helps me enormously in managing my depression and anxiety. I find the mathematical components soothing and learning new stitches satisfying. My mind is on the project, not on all the real and imagined disasters out there in the real world.

Hook up on social

If you are looking for a tribe then look no further! There are countless groups, communities, events and crochet-alongs out there if you’re social and looking for friends. It’s a great way for beginners to get help when they need it, too. Before you know it you’ll be the one showing the newbies your tips and tricks. We’re looking forward to running some casual meetups in local cafes soon.

Let us hook you up

If you’re an absolute beginner or picking up a hook again after a long time then I would recommend this 4mm hook from Yarn and Colors. You can’t go wrong with a 4mm hook. Most projects from a basic granny square to a colourful coaster or a cute little amigurumi will suit a 4mm hook. It’s a great all rounder and the ergonomic handle on these is so comfortable. And you’ll quickly get hooked on this Budgetyarn cotton. It comes in a huge range of bright, beautiful colours and is only $2 a ball. It’s recommended for a smaller hook but for beginners it’s just right for the 4mm and you can make absolutely anything out of 100% machine washable cotton.