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What’s cool about summer time is that you have the option of s l o w i n g down life a bit when you go on vacation and picking up those books or projects that got left by the wayside. Debbie Stoller, author of bookins on knitting and editor-in-chief of BUST Magazine, has launched an exceptionally user friendly book that picks up where her knitting books left off and introduce you to the art of crochet. Not just for granny any more, crochet is being seen more and more on runway fashions and it’s easier–and faster– than knitting to accomplish. It’s so easy to knit a scarf, bolero or even a hat and Debbie gives you all the directions in simple, "plain English" terms that will have you turning out cool fashions that you can wear and give as gifts!
Here’s a bit of Q&A with Debbie, but make sure you listen to the podcast as she’s very inspirational in getting you to pick up that crochet hook and some yarn and become that "Happy Hooker"!
You’re mainly known for knitting, so what made you add a crochet hook to your yarn stash?
Actually, the crochet hook was already there. In the summertime, I always prefer to crochet; it’s much easier to do on the beach (and because I like to knit with one needle in my armpit, well, on a hot summer day that doesn’t work so well).
Why is there such a rivalry between knitters and crocheters? What do you think caused this?
When crocheting first became popular, it was used by working-class people to achieve the look of fine laces that were previously only affordable to the very rich. To discourage their servants from engaging in this popular activity, the upper classes put down crocheting as a form of needlework that wasn’t as worthwhile as knitting or other work. So it’s been a class thing for quite a while, which most people probably don’t realize. It’s all a bit silly, because knitters and crocheters have a lot more in common than they have differences, and the way I see it, the more skills you have, the better off you are. Knitters and crocheters in America have been a bit like West Side Story’s Sharks and Jets. I want to be like Maria; I believe love can bring them together.
Which projects do you recommend to a beginner?
Anything that has lots of single or double crochet is a great start. There’s the "Stripes and Stripes Forever" scarf that’s nice and easy. But then again, there’s the "One Skein Scarf" that is just gorgeous, too. It uses more stitches, but I think it can show a beginner just how impressive a crochet piece can look, even when it’s made using just a few of the most basic techniques.
When did you first learn to crochet?
I don’t quite remember; I was about 10, I think. I made a panda that turned out much bigger than it was supposed to. It was floppy and frightening, but I loved it anyway.
What styles can be achieved with crochet that cannot be achieved by knitting?
Crochet is much better at making lacy fabric than knitting is, so beautiful lacy dusters, and short jackets, are a breeze. Crochet also does a nice job at making things in mesh–like an open-work hat or a cute short top. And finally, crochet is just made for creating sculptural items–like bags and stuffed animals.
Anything else we should know?
There are three times as many crocheters as knitters in this country, and they are getting pretty tired of knitters getting all the attention. It’s time for them to stand up and be counted. It’s time for them to have their moment in the sun.
Here’s a cute movie clip on the "rivalry" between knitters and crocheters-take a minute and let it load. You will love it!
http://www.expandedbooks.com
And that’s a fashion statement that’s not going away! I love crocheting and it’s very soothing and you don’t have to worry about dropping stitches as much–though you do have to count!
While I love to shop for fashion and beauty products, you can find me going ga-ga over yarn just as easily!
That’s the LA Story
Stevie
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