learning to crochet

[cindy]

My daughter has learnt to crochet and that has made me want to have a try again as there are so many lovely patterns available now. Do any of you crochet and can you recommend any books for beginners. I am already confused as one book was from US and they use different terms for our stitches. So from this book I thought I was doing DC and now looking in a UK book it is treble.

[Gentian]

I crochet, I was taught by my grandmother when I was little and have enjoyed using it on many occasions. I particularly use it to edge garments to give it more firmness, but have made garments. I don't use a pattern but once you have mastered the stitches, chain and various trebles (double, treble and so on - I have even done 6 times round) just putting them together gives a pattern and as it flat you just crochet on until you get the size you want. This is not true with circles - I do that by trial and error.
Have fun it's a useful skill.

[dragonfly]

I used to crochet many years ago but haven't done it for a while so don't know what books are available these days. Have you looked in the charity shops? They often have them.

[cindy]

Daughter has lent me 2 books and as I'm here in Cornwall at the moment (5mins from D's house) she sorting out my attempts. It is keeping me sane as OH's shoulder is no better and cannot walk very far (movement agrivates it) and the caravan is very small when you are in it all day! I used to crochet when the children were babies and if it hadn't been for daughter being so enthusiastic I don't think I would have even thought about starting again.

[Gentian]

There are lots of patterns on line, if you google "free crochet patterns" you'll find lots.

[franbee]

Yes, I found a pattern for making flower brooches.