How to Select Advanced Stitch Patterns

If you're tired of single crochet scarves or v-stitch afghans and want to try something more complicated but are unsure how to select your next project, there are several ways to find something that will suit your needs and offer a pleasant challenge. It can be daunting to pick up a pattern with stitches you've never heard of before, but don't let that stop you. Most stitches are just a combination or variation of the basic stitches you've already learned. So, pick that new project and get started!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• Internet access
• Stitching materials

How to Select the Right Pattern

1. Consider what it is you want to do. Do you want to make a sweater or a throw? A pair of socks or a tablecloth?
2. Look at other finished work and determine what you like and dislike about it.
3. Read through the pattern. Is it easy to follow? Do they use abbreviations you aren't familiar with? Make sure you understand what it is the pattern wants you to do.
4. Think about the yarn you want to use. Decide if something you already own will work for this pattern or if you'll have to buy something new. For example, is this the sort of project you can do with a cheap acrylic or should you splurge on cashmere?
5. Make a swatch. Test out the pattern to see if you like it. Figure out if it is too complicated, or requires you to move your hands in a way that is comfortable. If you find that the pattern is too hard or just isn't any fun to do, try another one.
6. Select your pattern. After considering what it is you want to make and testing out a few options, pick the one you like the best.

Where to Look For Advanced Stitch Patterns

7. Visit an online resource such as Nextstich.com to access numerous advanced stitch patterns (see Resources below).
8. Got to a craft store. Yarn manufacturers make free patterns that they distribute in stores as promotional material. There are often free patterns hanging in the yarn aisle of most craft/art stores.
9. Make a trip to your local yarn store. Ask the patrons or the proprietors for their favorite stitches. They are also a great resource if you need help.
10. Look at finished projects. If you are familiar with the basic principles and stitches of crochet, you can usually pick out the pattern. Pull grandma's old afghans or your great aunt's sweaters out of the attic and look them over for ideas.
11. Buy a book. There are pattern books that focus on different skill levels, pattern types and style. There are also more general purpose books, like the "Encyclopedia of Crochet" with a comprehensive stitch gallery in addition to their standard patterns (see Resources below).
12. Make your own. With the basics down, you can start to experiment for more advanced results. Try combining stitches in new ways, or using stitches typical of one type of project on another, like a shawl made in an afghan stitch.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a practice swatch! All patterns recommend it to test gauge, but it also lets you know how the yarn you've selected will work and feel, it lets you practice new stitches and ensures that your pattern will turn out the right size.
• Don't avoid patterns that have stitches you don't know. Learning for a project is a great way to build your stitch repertoire.
• Always buy enough yarn to finish your intended project before you start, and always round up. Matching dye lots will become increasingly difficult as time passes.