On the hooks: reading patterns

As my fellow hookers can confirm, reading a pattern can be a bit like learning a foreign language. Sc, dc, hdc, dc2tog, ch…Yikes! In plain speak this reads sc: single crochet; dc: double crochet; hdc: half double crochet; dc2tog: double crochet two stitches together; and ch: chain.  As I worked through Crochet Today’s Raspberry Beret Pattern I found myself frustrated and sporting a funky gauge as I ripped out yet another row because I read the pattern wrong. I vented on Twitter and a Twitter friend, NexStitch, provided an article that simplified reading patterns.

Despite the patterns that I use having a handy description of the abbreviations used, I found that NexStitch’s article was perfect for me when I needed it most.  After reading, re-reading and then downloading the pattern to add to my crochet booty I perused her site to see what else she has to offer.

NexStitch has a wonderful, helpful gallery of free how to videos, inspiring pieces to crochet and some free patterns. There i also an option to buy patterns with a preview to allow you to see what you are getting. The prices are reasonable, comparable to what you may pay in a store or the cost of a magazine (which, if you are like me, you may buy a magazine but only use one or two patterns). She gives you a list of materials needed as well as multiple yarns that can be used to complete a project. She blogs at Tales of a Techno Hooker and writes about her kitty, yarn, projects and she’s pretty cool and down to earth. She makes hooking seem possible and attainable and I’m glad I found her.

I love her work and am seriously considering 5.50 for the Rhiannon Crochet Tote. Especially since it’s half price for NaNoCroMo!

Confidently hooking,
-r