Crochet: A Hobby and a Form of Relaxation

In both normal and stressful times, crochet is a craft that results in a product — a sweater, afghan, toy, and many other things, and an aid to emotional well-being — a sense of accomplishment and a feeling of relaxation that is almost like meditation.

There are a range of books that can assist the crocheter, whether novice or experienced, in learning the basic techniques and more advanced skills. These books often use many diagrams and full color photos to demonstrate how to do the stitches and finishing techniques, as well as give instructions to completing your creation.

Complete Crochet Course : the Ultimate Reference Guide, is written by Shannon and Jason Mullett-Bowlsby. Useful for crocheters of all skill levels, “this guide explains all the tools, materials, and techniques you need, from choosing a hook and yarn to seaming, working in the round, handling specialty stitches, and adding details.” Ten patterns also are included for beginners.

Crochet in a Day: 42 Fast & Fun Projects, written by Salena Baca, gives instructions for projects that can be started and finished within a day. Included are patterns for small clothing projects (cowls, hats, and slippers) and home items (placemats and dishcloths).

Crochet Afghans for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making 14 Easy and Creative Patterns for Gifting and Personal Use is written by Rebecca Dwight. Through the use of color photos and written instructions, learn the basics of crochet and afghan making, using single crochet, double crochet, and half double crochet stiches.

Crochet Every Way Stitch Dictionary: 125 Essential Stitches to Crochet in Three Ways, written by Dora Ohrenstein,  shows how to create 125 stitch patterns, and explains how to increase and decrease each stitch pattern in three different ways—without shaping, with shaping at the edges, and with internal shaping.