August 3, 2013

It took me several days to make this block. I didn't like it particularly. It was only one pattern and seemed to take forever to crochet. Also, Steve is home and my time was divided. Anyway, this block is now complete.

Block 7
Twisted Loops

Close up 

This stitch is like a long-haired cat - fat and fluffy on the outside, but lean and lank on the inside. The fluff is made from spiraled chains attached tot he front loop of a mesh of stitches. Double Crochet Stitches are used for the mesh and chain-sevens for the loops, but any variation could be used for a smaller or larger project.

This is a variation of the Astrakhan Stitch. Instead of scallops these chains spiral and they do not require the awkward manipulation of working backward every other row. Also these directions are the same for both a right-hander and left-hander.

This pattern would make a great fake fur collar and cuff for a jacket in a loopy or fuzzy yarn. It is also ideal for making fuzzy cuddly baby toys. Since the twisted loops provide a good insulation layer, try it for a fun, fluffy carriage blanket for your favorite baby. To dress up a ready-made sweater, work one row of the Loop Stitch at the neck and cuffs. In order to have a base in which to insert the hook, first embroider a row of Stem Stitch using a yarn needle or crochet a row of Slip Stitch around the sweater edge.