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On Monday, I shared with you a few of my New Year's
Resolutions. We are just two days into 2013, and I have already added a new
resolution. This year I am going to crochet sweaters that fit. I won't just make
them in the right size, I will modify them to fit and flatter my unique shape—regardless of how well I keep my exercise goal this year.
I already have several sweater patterns queued from Robyn Chachulas' new book, Blueprint Crochet Sweaters: Techniques for Custom Construction, like the Walnut Cardigan (below left). Robyn has created designs for every body type and used every classic sweater design style, from raglan to side-saddle sleeve and motifs to cables.
For more great sweater construction information, Crochet Sweater Studio, Robyn's new video workshop, shows you
how to modify an existing pattern or design your own crochet pattern tailor fit
to your body, she also shares some of her favorite stress-free fixes to make
the crochet process more enjoyable and to easily fix any problems you may run
into. Here is Robyn to share just a few of her favorite stress-free fixes.
Stress Free Fixes
1. Did not crochet
enough ch stitches for a dc row?
Try a Foundation Double Crochet (fdc): Ch 4 (counts as one
Fdc) Set-up stitch: Yo, insert hook into the 4th ch from hook, YO, pull up
loop, yo, pull thru 1 loop (3 loops on hook), yo, draw thru 2 loops, yo draw
thru last 2 loops Next stitch: Yo, insert hook into base (bottom horizontal
bar) of previous stitch, yo, pull up loop, yo, draw thru 1 loop, yo, draw thru
2 loops on hook, yo, draw thru last 2 loops
2. Need a simple
stitch that is less lacy?
Try Linked Treble Crochet (ltr): Set-Up Stitch: Ch 4, insert
hook into the 2nd ch from hook, yp, pull up loop, insert hook into 3rd ch from
hook, yo, pull up loop, insert hook into next st, yo, pull up loop (4 loops on hook),
yo, draw thru 2 loops on hook, yo, draw thru next 2 loops, yo, draw thru last 2
loops (first stitch made) Next stitches: Insert hook into upper horizontal bar
of previous stitch, yo, pull up loop, insert hook into lower horizontal bar,
yo, pull up loop, insert hook into next st, yo, pull up loop, (4 loops on
hook), yo, draw thru 2 loops on hook, yo, draw thru next 2 loops, yo, draw thru
last 2 loops
3. Uneven Row Edges?
To give a really clean look, straighten out your edges
before you add a border for a really professional look. Then add a edging.
Whether it's a few rows of sc back loop ribbing or a couple rounds of sc, an
edging gives you clean lines.
— Robyn
Robyn is a big fan of using a single crochet or single
crochet back loop only border around the edges of her projects, and I love the
clean lines this simple trick creates. She also frequently uses slip stitch
embroidery in this border to both reinforce the edge, reducing the projects
tendency to stretch over time, and create a gorgeous detail. You can see this detailing in her Walnut Cardigan design.
Pre-order Robyn's video workshop, Interweave Crochet Workshop: Crochet Sweater Studio Designing Garments
that Suit Your Shape with Robyn Chachula and Blueprint Crochet Sweaters: Techniques for Custom Construction today to design your
perfect sweater this year.
Best wishes,
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