The History of Crochet Threads
Crochet is a method of looping yarn or thread to create a loose fabric. It is completed with a single crochet hook, or a slender instrument hooked at one end, the hook is used to created a chain of loops. Many materials have been crocheted, threads, lace, yarn and rope are all commonly used for this type of needlework. The demand for crocheted goods has risen and fallen throughout the dynamics of the world and today remains a positive and popular pass time as well as a stylish fashion trend.
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Origin
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The true beginnings of crochet are unclear. Some, such as Lis Paludan of Denmark, author of "Crochet: History & Technique" suggests that the origins of crochet come from Arabia and then followed trade routes throughout the Mediterranean. According to Paludan there is no evidence of crochet in Europe before the 1800's. There have been sample of crochet found in South America and China and it could be that these places also hold the origins of the art.
Early Crochet
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The craft of crochet pre-dates the crochet hook. In the begging women would use their fingers to string together yarn creating a loose crocheted fabric. Crafters spent tedious hours performing this task creating afghan throws and blankets for their homes. The word Crochet is derived from the French work 'croche' which means hook. A hook was a common tool used in lace making and as crochet became a very popular technique for making lace the hook was adopted as well as the name.
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Irish Lace
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During the late 18th century and early 1800's Irish Lace was practiced as a cottage industry, Irish lace was produced using crochet techniques. A group of nuns may have introduced the art to women in Ireland who used it to supplement their income during the Great Potato Famine of that time. The increasing availability of inexpensive cotton thread that was machine spun rather than hand spun probably gave rise to the crochet industry. The Royal Dublin Society, in 1794, even began to give awards for outstanding examples of crochet work.
Victorian Era
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In 1824 crochet patterns were published in a Dutch magazine called "Penelope." During the Victorian era crochet became a common pass time among housewives. They would often make clothing, blankets and doilies for their home. The stitching patterns became more complicated and intricate. Crochet was recognized as a fashion trend and many fashion accessories were made with crochet fabric such as hats and handbags.
World Wars
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During World War I and II crochet dropped off in popularity. Because of the War women weren't working at home as much anymore but instead being drafted to factories. It wasn't easy to find the time to crochet. Also, printed material and yarn was in short supply. Even as the wars ended and the nation began to get back to normal the demand for crochet afghans was low.
1960's and Beyond
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Crochet was revived in the 1960's and 70's when crocheted vests and sweaters became a popular style. Many colors textures and varieties of yarn became available and both men and women took up the craft. The widespread availability of publications detailing new techniques and how-to's for crochet learners contributed to the trend. It was found during these times that the process of crochet helped to relieve stress and psychologists even today recommend the pass time to many stress sufferers.
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References
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- Photo Credit crochet serviettes image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com
