Crochet, one of the oldest craft forms and yet younger than its friendly sister knitting, has been claimed by countries like Arabia, South America or China for its origin. Though there is no clear indication on the same, it is believed that Crochet could have originated in the Middle-East and from there traveled to various other parts of the world along the trade routes from the Middle-East. Though the origins of the craft may have been lost to time the name crochet itself is believed to have originated from the French word croche which means a hook.

In the 19th Century Crochet gained its roots in Europe and almost all countries developed a style unique to its own. It is here that the once humble skill used to make fish nets and clothes became an intricate craft. Almost all European nations had their own set of patterns, stitches and terminology for the craft but one distinct form that contributed the most to what crochet is today is the Irish style of crochet.

In the 19th Century Ireland was facing a famine and crochet was introduced as an alternative means to earn an income during those days. Men,  women and children all formed a cooperative to produce crochet products of which the crochet lace gained the most popularity. When the Irish immigrated to the Americas the craft of crochet traveled with them.

During the 20th Century crochet traveled to India with Scottish Missionaries and although its earliest uses were to create prayer rugs and caps worn by Muslims soon it expanded its horizons to doilies, laces and table linens.

Over the years crochet has seen many changes. It has been used in making delicate laces, clothing, handmade purses, toys, blankets, caps and so on. During the World War women crocheted caps and other warm clothings for soldiers in war.Crochet has also made its mark on the runway where entire dresses have been displayed made out of crochet. The most popular styles of crochet are:

• Mosaic Crochet
• Granny square
• Freeform Crochet
• Motifs
• Crocheted lace
• Tunisian Crochet
• Tapestry Crochet
• Amigurumi
• Filet Crochet
• Corner to Corner (C2C) Crochet

 We shall discuss each of these styles in a different blog.

Today, the craft of crochet has been recognised to be used in therapy for anxiety, depression and addictions. The repetitive movement of crochet helps in calming down and helps in focusing. It gives a sense of accomplishment when you complete a project with your own two hands and gives a boost to your self esteem. Crochet has come a long way since its inception and has managed to stay abreast with our fast changing world.

Would you like to begin your Crochet journey and don’t know where to begin? You may start this journey with The Original Knit,as they offer DIY  Crochet Kits for beginners. These kits come packed with yarn, hook, needle, pins and everything that is required to kick start your crochet project. They also come with self paced learning videos which will help you start and finish your  project with ease. That’s not all, if you are stuck somewhere during your project they will also provide online help at your convenient time.

 So what are you waiting for? Visit the website and pick a project of your choice to begin your Crochet Journey!