Learn to Crochet a Swirl Snail

Learn to Crochet a Swirl Snail

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Making the Romanian Cord 2.1. Choosing the Cord Length 2.2. Using the Proper Crochet Thread and Hook
3. Making the Motif and Turning to the Left 3.1. Weaving in the New Color Thread 3.2. Crocheting the First Bumps of the Cord 3.3. Crocheting the Bumps Together to Turn the Cord
4. Making the Motif and Turning to the Right 4.1. Weaving in the New Color Thread 4.2. Holding the Cord in the Left Hand 4.3. Crocheting the Bumps of the Cord 4.4. Crocheting the Bumps Together to Turn the Cord
5. Crocheting the Snail Motif 5.1. Crocheting Single Crochet Stitches on the Round Part 5.2. Crocheting Single Crochet Backwards on the Long Leg
6. Adjusting the Size of the Snail Motif
7. Conclusion

How to Make Romanian Cord and Crochet Snail Motifs

In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Romanian cord and using it to crochet snail motifs. These motifs can be created in two variations: one turning to the left and another turning to the right. The Romanian cord serves as the base for these motifs and can be made to any desired length, depending on your project. We will start by explaining how to make the Romanian cord, then move on to the step-by-step process of crocheting the snail motifs.

1. Introduction

Crocheting snail motifs is a creative way to add a unique touch to your crochet projects. The process involves making a Romanian cord and then crocheting the snail shape onto it. By changing the direction of the cord, you can create variations of the snail motif. In this article, we will show you how to make the Romanian cord and crochet both left and right turning snail motifs.

2. Making the Romanian Cord

Before we can start crocheting the snail motifs, we need to make the Romanian cord. The Romanian cord will serve as the base for our motifs and provide the structure and shape. Here's how to make the Romanian cord:

2.1. Choosing the Cord Length

The length of the Romanian cord depends on your project's requirements. It can be longer or shorter, depending on how you want to use it. Keep in mind that the cord should have bumps on each side, which will be treated as stitches later. Prepare a Romanian cord around 45 inches long or adjust it according to your needs.

2.2. Using the Proper Crochet Thread and Hook

To crochet the Romanian cord, you will need a crochet thread of size number 10 and a crochet hook of 1 millimeter. This combination will give the cord a sturdy and well-defined look. Additionally, you can use decorative thread of size number 20 and a crochet hook of 0.9 millimeters for embellishing the motifs and adding intricate details.

3. Making the Motif and Turning to the Left

Once you have the Romanian cord ready, it's time to start crocheting the snail motif. We will begin with the left-turning variation. Follow the steps below:

3.1. Weaving in the New Color Thread

To change the color of your work, it's best to weave in the new color thread as you go. This saves you from having to weave in multiple threads at the end of your project. Start by picking up the new color thread and insert it into the needle. Weave in this new thread into the body of the cord, ensuring it is secure and won't unravel.

3.2. Crocheting the First Bumps of the Cord

With the new color thread in place, pick up the crochet hook (size 0.9 millimeters) and hold it in your dominant hand. Insert the hook into the first bump of the cord and bring the thread out. Repeat this step five times, inserting the hook into each bump of the cord and bringing the thread out.

3.3. Crocheting the Bumps Together to Turn the Cord

After you have five stitches on the hook, make a yarn over and pull the thread through all five stitches. This will join the stitches and create a turning effect on the cord. Chain one stitch to secure the shape. Now, we will move to the next part of the cord and repeat the process.

4. Making the Motif and Turning to the Right

The right-turning snail motif requires a slightly different technique. We will explain the steps below:

4.1. Weaving in the New Color Thread

Similar to the left-turning variation, begin by weaving in the new color thread into the body of the cord. This ensures a seamless color change and eliminates the need for excessive thread weaving at the end of your work.

4.2. Holding the Cord in the Left Hand

To crochet the right-turning snail motif, you will need to hold the cord in your left hand. Place the cord between your index finger and thumb, and use the rest of your fingers to hold the thread in place. Pick up the crochet hook (size 0.9 millimeters) with your non-dominant hand and prepare to crochet.

4.3. Crocheting the Bumps of the Cord

Insert the crochet hook into each bump of the cord, bringing the thread out as you go. Repeat this process with all five bumps of the cord. With all the stitches on the hook, crochet them together by making a yarn over and pulling the thread through all five stitches. Chain one to secure the shape.

4.4. Crocheting the Bumps Together to Turn the Cord

Similar to the left-turning variation, continue crocheting the bumps together on the curved round part of the cord. Remember to skip one bump on the long leg and crochet into the next one. This ensures a flat and even snail shape as you work your way around the cord.

5. Crocheting the Snail Motif

Once you have turned the cord to the left or right, it's time to start crocheting the snail motif. The process involves crocheting single crochet stitches on the round part of the cord and single crochet stitches backwards on the long leg of the cord. Follow the steps below to create the snail motif:

5.1. Crocheting Single Crochet Stitches on the Round Part

Insert the crochet hook into the next bump on the round part of the cord and make a single crochet stitch. Continue crocheting single crochet stitches into each successive bump on the round part. This will create the spiral shape of the snail motif.

5.2. Crocheting Single Crochet Backwards on the Long Leg

When you reach the long leg of the cord, skip one bump and insert the hook into the next bump. Bring the thread out and make a single crochet stitch backwards. Repeat this process, skipping one bump and crocheting into the next, until you reach the end of the long leg.

6. Adjusting the Size of the Snail Motif

The size of the snail motif can be adjusted according to your preference. You can make it smaller by decreasing the number of crochet stitches or larger by adding more stitches. The diameter of the snail motif can range from one inch to one and a half inches, depending on your project requirements.

7. Conclusion

Crocheting snail motifs using the Romanian cord technique is a fun and creative way to add interest to your crochet projects. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can master the art of making snail motifs that turn both to the left and right. Experiment with different colors and sizes to create unique and eye-catching designs. Have fun exploring this technique and let your creativity flourish!