Learn Tunisian Crocheting: Make a Beautiful Entrelac Baby Blanket
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Materials Needed
- Getting Started
- Starting from the Middle
- Chaining and Stitching
- Working on the First Square
- Basic Stitch Pattern
- Adding New Stitches
- Completing the First Square
- Starting the Second Square
- Changing Colors
- Working with Two Colors
- Finishing the Second Square
- Continuing with Additional Squares
- Progressing to the Third Round
- Finishing the Project
- Tips and Tricks
- Conclusion
Ankle Lock Style in Tunisian Crocheting: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tunisian crochet is a unique and versatile technique that allows you to create beautiful and intricate designs. In this tutorial, we will be exploring the ankle lock style in Tunisian crocheting, starting from the middle. With just a few materials and some basic stitches, you will be able to create a stunning piece of crochet art.
1. Introduction
Tunisian crochet is a fusion of crochet and knitting, resulting in a fabric that has the best of both worlds. It involves the use of a special Tunisian crochet hook with an elongated shaft and a stopper on the end, allowing you to hold multiple loops on the hook at a time. This style of crocheting creates a dense and textured fabric that is perfect for blankets, scarves, and garments.
2. Materials Needed
To get started with the ankle lock style in Tunisian crocheting, you will need the following materials:
- Half knot fine 133 yarn (50% virgin wool, 50% acrylic)
- Two contrasting colors of yarn
- 4mm Tunisian crochet hook
3. Getting Started
Starting from the Middle
To begin your ankle lock style project, you will start from the middle of your work. Create a small loop and make seven chains. The first chain on your hook will count as your first stitch. From the second chain, create a new stitch for each remaining chain.
Chaining and Stitching
Once you have seven loops on your needle, start the first row by chaining one and then working two loops at a time. This is the basic stitch pattern for Tunisian crochet. If you are new to Tunisian crochet, you can refer to other videos or tutorials to learn the basics.
4. Working on the First Square
Basic Stitch Pattern
The first square of your ankle lock style project is created by working rows of Tunisian crochet stitches. Each row consists of chaining one and then working two loops at a time until you reach the end. This pattern will create a dense and textured fabric.
Adding New Stitches
As you progress with your first square, continue to add new stitches by chaining one and then working two loops at a time. This will increase the size of your square. Remember to always take the beginning yarn with you to reduce the amount of weaving in later.
5. Completing the First Square
Once you have reached the desired size for your first square, finish it off by chaining one and then slipping stitches to the other end. Cut the yarn short and fasten off.
6. Starting the Second Square
To create the ankle lock style, you will be working with two colors. Start the second square by attaching a new color. Work six chains and use the last loop on your hook as the first stitch. Continue to create new stitches using both colors, alternating rows as desired.
Changing Colors
When switching colors, leave the leftover yarn from the previous color and start the new color from the lower section of your work. Work six chains with the new color and then start new stitches.
Working with Two Colors
As you continue to work on the second square, remember to always take the beginning yarn with you. This will ensure that your color changes are secure and there are no loose ends to weave in later.
7. Finishing the Second Square
Once you have completed the desired number of squares for the second color, finish it off by slipping stitches and cutting the yarn short. Proceed to the next side, working new squares in the same manner as before.
8. Continuing with Additional Squares
Continue to work on your ankle lock style project by adding additional squares to each side. Follow the same pattern of chaining, stitching, and changing colors as you progress. The number of squares you create will depend on the size of your desired finished piece.
9. Progressing to the Third Round
Once you have completed all the squares for the second color, you will move on to the third round. This round involves starting new squares from the existing ones and creating a border around the entire piece. Follow the same pattern as before, chaining, stitching, and adding new squares as needed.
10. Finishing the Project
To finish your ankle lock style project, complete the final round of squares and slip stitch to connect the last square to the first. Finish off the piece by slip stitching and cutting the yarn. Weave in any loose ends for a polished look.
11. Tips and Tricks
- When changing colors, leave the leftover yarn from the previous color to secure the color change.
- Take the beginning yarn with you as you work to reduce the amount of weaving in later.
- Use a stitch marker to keep track of your progress and ensure your squares are evenly spaced.
12. Conclusion
In conclusion, the ankle lock style in Tunisian crocheting is a beautiful and intricate technique that can be easily mastered with practice. By starting from the middle and working in squares, you can create stunning crochet pieces with a unique texture and design. Have fun experimenting with different color combinations and patterns as you explore the world of Tunisian crochet. Happy crocheting!