The history of the crochet hook is quite fascinating. Crochet itself is believed to have originated in the early 16th century in Europe. However, the exact origin of the crochet hook is a bit unclear. That makes this art more mysterious because there is also some evidence of crochet possibly having roots in early China or Arabia. So, who were the earliest pioneers of this craft? What tools and techniques were used in those early centuries?
Whoever it was that discovered this popular art form and the tools necessary, we owe a debt of gratitude for providing us that tool for this long-living and sustainable life skill. Let’s dig a bit into some historical trivia surrounding the crochet hook.
Hooks of all kinds
The first crochet hooks were likely made from simple materials like bone, wood, or even ivory. These early hooks were handmade and varied in size and shape. Over time, as crochet became more popular, hooks started to be produced on a larger scale and with different materials such as metal. We have been searching for vintage crochet hooks or trying to produce some of our own. Many of our followers have known how Fuad himself creates his own unique hook handles on Wood Be Fancy. He has also dabbled in making his own fully hand carved wood hooks. We have yet to discover any bone or ivory hooks while antiquing, but one can imagine how rare these must be.
In the 19th century, steel crochet hooks became particularly popular due to their durability. They didn’t break or wear down as easily with use. They were often used for delicate and intricate lacework. The size and shape of the hooks also began to mass produce during this time, making it easier for patterns to be shared and replicated.
In the modern era, crochet hooks are available in a wide range of materials including plastic, aluminum, and bamboo. They also come in various sizes and designs, catering to different preferences and crochet techniques. Company branding and designs were perfected and the industry has grown significantly.
Crochet hooks have evolved alongside the art of crochet itself, allowing people to create beautiful and intricate designs with ease. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, having a good crochet hook is essential for bringing your creative ideas to life!
What is your go-to hook? Share with us in the comments!
Happy Hooking!
~Fuad, Shannon, and Nadia
This post contains affiliate links, which I may be compensated for when you make a purchase. That means if you click on any link and buy from the linked websites, I will receive a small percentage of the value of your order. The amount you pay is not changed. Thank you for all your support in clicking the links in my blog!! You all are so amazing!! ~Nadia
My Wee One Bonnet is a mix of moss stitch granny squares and a few other fun stitches that works up nicely in this cute unisex bonnet! I made this one in Marly Bird’s Chic Sheep Yarn in the color VIP but don’t be limited to that! You can make this in every color of the rainbow for all the babies or Wee Ones that you know!
This little bonnet has a bit of a square shape which makes this have a little bit of a vintage appeal. Many of the old school bonnets had a similar shape and this one is a sweet one to resurrect this fun look. One of these would make a lovely addition to any layette.
This bonnet is a year round wear item, but is perfect for fitting under a hood since it has little bulk. It is also nice for springtime to protect ears from a slight breeze or chill in the air. You can’t go wrong with one of these for your little one or for a gift!
Follow along with this video tutorial to learn how to make this bonnet:
My dad will continue to be the videographer, editor, and photographer for our videos when I move away.
Support YARNutopia today so we can continue to bring you clear, quality crochet tutorials even after I move into my new home!
There will be an added expense of more travel and hopefully this won’t deter our ability to provide consistent videos on a weekly basis.
Teacher: Nadia Fuad
Video and Editing: Fuad Azmat (My Daddy)
Share your work on Facebook!
Add me on Snapchat: YARNutopia
Follow me on Instagram
Visit My Ravelry Store and add this to your Favorites!
Follow me on Twitter: @YARNutopia
Enjoy this video and subscribe to my channel on YouTube for more tutorials on how to crochet!
Leave a comment, and share with your friends!
Designed by Nadia Fuad You *may* sell items made from my pattern, but please reference my website YARNutopia.com.
Please do not copy, sell, and/or post this pattern and claim it as your own.
My Wee One Bonnet is a mix of moss stitch granny squares and a few other fun stitches that works up nicely in this cute unisex bonnet! I made this one in Marly Bird’s Chic Sheep Yarn in the color VIP but don’t be limited to that! You can make this in every color of the rainbow for all the babies or Wee Ones that you know!
This little bonnet has a bit of a square shape which makes this have a little bit of a vintage appeal. Many of the old school bonnets had a similar shape and this one is a sweet one to resurrect this fun look. One of these would make a lovely addition to any layette.
This bonnet is a year round wear item, but is perfect for fitting under a hood since it has little bulk. It is also nice for springtime to protect ears from a slight breeze or chill in the air. You can’t go wrong with one of these for your little one or for a gift!
My dad will continue to be the videographer, editor, and photographer for our videos when I move away.
Support YARNutopia today so we can continue to bring you clear, quality crochet tutorials even after I move into my new home!
There will be an added expense of more travel and hopefully this won’t deter our ability to provide consistent videos on a weekly basis.
Teacher: Nadia Fuad
Video and Editing: Fuad Azmat (My Daddy)
Share your work on Facebook!
Add me on Snapchat: YARNutopia
Follow me on Instagram
Visit My Ravelry Store and add this to your Favorites!
Follow me on Twitter: @YARNutopia
Enjoy this video and subscribe to my channel on YouTube for more tutorials on how to crochet!
Leave a comment, and share with your friends!
Pattern:
Designed by Nadia Fuad You *may* sell items made from my pattern, but please reference my website YARNutopia.com.
Please do not copy, sell, and/or post this pattern and claim it as your own.
NOTES:
-Use a smaller hook to make these smaller
-Use a bigger hook to make these bigger
Special stitches:
Ch(s): chain(s)
YO: Yarn Over
BLO: Back Loop Only
FLO: Front Loop Only
St(s): Stitch(es)
Sl st: slip stitch
SK: Skip
SC: Single Crochet
SC2TOG: Single Crochet Decrease
HDC: Half Double Crochet
DC: Double Crochet
Pattern:
If you have any confusion or difficulty with reading this pattern, please watch the video tutorial that is linked above in this blog post to have visual instructions.
Granny Square:
Make 2
Ch 2
Rnd 1: SC in 2nd Ch from hook, [Ch 2, SC in same ch as first SC] 3 times, Ch 2, Sl st to first SC.
Rnd 2: Sl st into Ch 2 corner sp, Ch 1, [SC, Ch 2, SC] in corner,* Ch 1, [SC, Ch 2, SC] into next corner, repeat from * around, sl st to first SC.
Rnd 3: Sl st into Ch 2 corner sp, Ch 1, [SC, Ch 2, SC] in corner, *Ch 1, SC in next ch 1 sp, Ch 1, [SC, Ch 2, SC] in corner, repeat from * around, sl st to first SC.
Rnd 4: Sl st into Ch 2 corner sp, Ch 1, [SC Ch 2, SC] in corner, * [Ch 1, SC in next ch 1 sp] repeat until you get to the next corner, [SC, Ch 2, SC] into corners, repeat from * around, Sl st to first SC.
Rnds 5-10: Repeat Round 4
Fasten off with long tail for sewing.
Center ribbing:
Work in BLO to make the ribbing look
Ch 17
Row 1: SC in 2nd Ch from hook and each ch across, ch 1, turn. (16)
Row 2: SC in each st across, Ch 1, turn.
Rows 3-40: repeat Row 2
Fasten off with long tail for sewing.
Assembly Step:
Sew the center ribbing piece to the granny squares. See the video tutorialfor specific visual instructions. See photos for visual instructions as well.
Bottom Cuff:
Attach Yarn to bottom corner of bonnet (see video tutorial for specific location)
Row 1: Ch 2, DC across the bottom of the bonnet, Turn.
Row 2: Ch 2 (does not count as stitch), DC in first st, FPDC on next, BPDC on next, repeat from * across, ending with DC in last st, Turn.
Rows 3-4: Repeat Row 2
Fasten off, Weave in ends.
Ties/Straps
Attach yarn to bottom corner of bonnet (do this for both straps)
Ch 51, SC in 2nd Ch and each ch across until you get back to the bonnet. Sl st to bonnet. Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
Enjoy!!
This post contains affiliate links, which I may be compensated for when you make a purchase. That means if you click on any link and buy from the linked websites, I will receive a small percentage of the value of your order. The amount you pay is not changed. Thank you for all your support in clicking the links in my blog!! You all are so amazing!! ~Nadia
The yarn provided for this pattern is courtesy of Yarnspirations
I love to create matching layette sets when designing items for babies. I love the idea of a cute dress with matching accessories. Today, I have the second installment for the Happy Hearts Baby Dress. I designed a Vintage Style Baby Bonnet.
This sweet baby hat has similar ruffle detail as seen on the cap sleeves of the Happy Hearts Baby Dress. Using similar colors with this matching detail, this tiny bonnet is the perfect pairing for this sweet outfit.
With more pieces to come, this is the perfect set to start now and add to as the pieces become available! This will make a wonderful gift!
Watch this video tutorial to learn how to make this simple bonnet pattern:
My dad will continue to be the videographer, editor, and photographer for our videos when I move away.
Support YARNutopia today so we can continue to bring you clear, quality crochet tutorials even after I move into my new home!
There will be an added expense of more travel and hopefully this won’t deter our ability to provide consistent videos on a weekly basis.
Teacher: Nadia Fuad
Video and Editing: Fuad Azmat (My Daddy)
Share your work on Facebook!
Add me on Snapchat: YARNutopia
Follow me on Instagram
Visit My Ravelry Store and add this to your Favorites!
Follow me on Twitter: @YARNutopia
Enjoy this video and subscribe to my channel on YouTube for more tutorials on how to crochet!
Leave a comment, and share with your friends!
Pattern:
Designed by Nadia Fuad You *may* sell items made from my pattern, but please reference my website YARNutopia.com.
Please do not copy, sell, and/or post this pattern and claim it as your own.
NOTES:
-Use a smaller hook to make these smaller
-Use a bigger hook to make these bigger
-I used 2 colors but you can use as many colors as you want
-I used a size 4 medium yarn, you can use any worsted weight, DK, or Aran yarn for this project
Special stitches:
Ch(s): chain(s)
YO: Yarn Over
BLO: Back Loop Only
St(s): Stitch(es)
Sl st: slip stitch
SK: Skip
SC: Single Crochet
HDC: Half Double Crochet
DC: Double Crochet
Puff: [YO, Insert Hook, YO, Pull through] 3 times, YO pull through all 7 loops on the hook, Ch 1 to close the st.
Cluster: [YO, Insert Hook, YO, Pull through, YO pull through 2 loops] 3 times, YO pull through all loops on hook.
Pattern:
If you have any confusion or difficulty with reading this pattern, please watch the video tutorial to have visual instructions.
Rnd 1: Ch 2, Beg. Cluster in ring, [Ch 2, Cluster in ring] 3 times, Ch 2, Sl st to beg. cluster. (4 clusters)
Rnd 2: Sl st into Ch 2 sp, Ch 3 (counts as DC), [DC, ch 2, 2 DC] in same sp, *Ch 2, [2DC, ch 2, 2 DC] in next ch 2 sp, repeat from * around, ending with ch 2, Sl st to ch 3 st.
Rnd 3: Sl st in sp between DC sts (see video tutorial for specific location), Ch 1, Puff st in same sp, *Ch 1, Puff st in Ch 2 sp, Ch 1, Puff st in sp between next 2 DC sts, Repeat from * around, ending with Puff st in last Ch 2 sp, ch 1, sl st to 1st puff st.
Rnd 4: Ch 3 (counts as DC), DC in same st, *2 DC in next ch 1 sp, 2 DC in next puff st, repeat from * around, sl st to beg. ch 3 st. (64 sts)
Work in rows now
Row 5: Work in between posts, sl st in sp between DC’s, Ch 1, Puff in same sp, * sk 2 sts, Puff in sp between next 2 DC’s, ch 1, repeat from * 24 more times, leave the rest of the sts unworked. Fasten off, change color. (25 puff sts)
Row 6: With new color, attach yarn to last st on row with RIGHT SIDE facing you, Ch 3 (counts as DC), DC in same st, Sk ch 1 sps across, put 2 DC in each puff st, Fasten off, change color. (50 sts)
Row 7: Turn your work so you are looking at the WRONG SIDE, Sl st in sp between 2 DC grouping, Ch 1, Puff st in same sp, *Ch 1, Puff between next 2 DC grouping, repeat from * across, Fasten off, Turn your work, Change color.
Row 8: Repeat Row 6
Row 9: Repeat Row 7
Row 10: Repeat Row 6
Row 11: Repeat Row 7
Row 12: Repeat Row 6
Round 13: Starting in corner of front of bonnet, SC around entire bonnet with Loofah
Do not fasten off, continue working along the front of the bonnet
Row 14: Ch 1, SC in same st, * Ch 3, Sk 1 st, SC in next st, repeat from * 24 more times. Turn.
Row 15: Sl st into 1st ch 3 sp, Ch 2, *[2HDC, ch 2, 2 HDC] in NEXT ch 3 sp, repeat from * across. Turn.
Row 16: 6 HDC in 1st ch sp, *SC in gap between the HDC st groupings, 6 HDC in next ch 2 sp, repeat from * across, ending with SC in last ch 2 st. Fasten off.
Weave in all ends.
Assembly step:
Weave ribbon across Row 12 of the bonnet.
Enjoy!!
This post contains affiliate links, which I may be compensated for when you make a purchase. That means if you click on any link and buy from the linked websites, I will receive a small percentage of the value of your order. The amount you pay is not changed. Thank you for all your support in clicking the links in my blog!! You all are so amazing!! ~Nadia
The yarn provided for this pattern is courtesy of Red Heart Yarns
In keeping with the accessories I have been making this week, I created this vintage inspired crochet lace collar. Add a bit of dimension and flair to a plain sweater or top with this elegant scalloped design that is reminiscent of days gone by, yet it is brought to life in contemporary fashion. I paired it with a jewel brooch for an extra vintage touch because that’s how I roll! Have fun with it!
Lace collars have a long history in fashion. I always enjoy finding something vintage and putting a new modern spin on it, yet keeping the historic essence of the piece.
Watch this video tutorial to learn how to make this collar necklace:
To see my Earrings Tutorial, Click Here
To see my Lariat Necklace Tutorial, Click Here
Pattern:
Designed by Nadia Fuad
Questions? Leave a comment! You may sell items made from my pattern, but please reference my name and Etsy Shop (YARNutopia). Please do not copy and post this pattern and claim it as your own.
Materials: -Aunt Lydia’s Crochet Thread Size 3 Thread (Or any Super Fine Thread)
-Small Button
-Size 2.00mm Crochet Hook
-Yarn Needle
-Scissors
NOTES:
-You may use any size thread and any size hook to make this. Just know that it will turn out larger or smaller around the neck.
Collar Ch 110 Loosely Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (109 sc)
Row 2: Ch 9 (counts as first DC plus CH 6), turn; sk next 3 sc, dc in next sc, (ch 6, sk next 3 sc, dc in next sc) across. (27 ch6 sps)
Row 3: Turn, Sl st in first dc, * (SC, HDC, 6DC, HDC, SC) in next ch6 sp, sl st in next DC, repeat from * across.
Row 4: Ch 10 (Counts as 1st DC plus Ch 7), turn; sk 1st scallop, DC in next sl st, (CH 7, sk next scallop, DC in next sl st) across.
Row 5: Turn; sl st in 1st DC, * (SC, HDC, 7DC, HDC, SC) in next ch 7 sp, sl st in next dc, repeat from * across.
Row 6: Ch 11 (Counts as 1st DC plus CH 8), turn; DC in next sl st, (CH 8, DC in next sl st) across.
Row 7: Turn; sl st in 1st DC, * (SC, HDC, 8DC, HDC, SC) in next ch 8 sp, sl st in next dc, repeat from * across.
Row 8: Ch 6, turn, SC in center ch of 1st ch sp, ch 6, * SC in next DC, (CH4, sl st in last sc just made) 3x, CH 6, SC in center ch of next ch sp, CH 6, repeat from * across to last dc, sl st in last dc and up the side,
once you get to row 1, CH 10, sl st back into row 1. (Button hole made)
Fasten off, weave in all ends.
Enjoy!
***You can always contact me if you have any problems with the pattern. I am happy to help if you have any questions along the way.
Houndstooth originated in Scotland in the 1800s. It originally was a woven fabric and over time became popular in fashion. It has undergone many revivals, but it has stayed true to its original classic pattern. Houndstooth is named because it resembles a canine tooth with its sharp edge. Sometimes it is called Dogstooth, and the miniature design is known as Puppytooth. Many designers use this pattern in high end fashion to this day. If you would like to learn more about the Houndstooth history, click here.
It’s Fall Fashion Week in New York which inspired me to create this Houndstooth Shawl–perfect for autumn weather and cool nights. When I originally set out to make this pattern, I expected this to be an incredible challenge, having never done the Houndstooth stitch before. But, after studying a few patterns online, I was able to quickly and very easily pick it up!
In no time, I was able to work up this great shawl!!
Follow this video tutorial on how to make this shawl.
This is a very easy to follow video tutorial showing how to recreate the original Houndstooth in crochet form. Below, you will see the original Houndstooth pattern in woven fabric.
Here is a close-up of my crochet version of the same stitch. It looks so close and awesome!!
Once you have mastered this stitch following my tutorial, you may make some minor modifications to my shawl pattern to turn this project into so many great items. I talk a little bit in the video on how to make an infinity scarf, a traditional neck wrap scarf, a baby blanket, or even an afghan. The ideas are endless! All you need to do is adjust your chain amount when you start this project. You just need an odd number of chains.
Traditional Houndstooth is the contrasting pattern of black and white, but in the crochet world, anything goes! This project can be changed up in so many colorful ways than the traditional monochromatic design. Imagine, hot pink and white, purple and black, go wild with color!!
You can buy any of the items in this kit. Buy all or buy one item. Check it out to see the supplies you can get online to make this project!
Notes:
When changing colors do not cut your yarn. On your last dc, work the dc as normal but when you have the 2 loops left on your hook you will change your color and then YO and draw through both loops on the hook. You will then just take the unused color and crochet it along in the row. You will be changing color at the end of each row. (See video for visual instructions)
Ch 45 (Or any ODD number to make your own as wide as you want)
Row 1: *sc in the second ch from the hook, dc in the next, repeat from * across. Ending with a dc (change color and see special instructions for changing color) ch 1, turn. (44 sts)
Row 2: *sc in next dc, dc in next sc; repeat from * across (change color–See video for visual instruction) ch 1, turn (44 sts)
Repeat Row 2 for however long you want your piece to be. I made mine 113 rows.
Finish with a black row, and continue to sc around the entire piece. Fasten off, weave in all ends. Add a pin for embellishment. Enjoy!
Teacher: Nadia Fuad
Video and Editing: Fuad Azmat (My Daddy)
Enjoy this video and subscribe to my channel on YouTube for more tutorials on how to crochet!
Leave a comment, and share with your friends!
“People will stare. Make it worth their while.” ~Harry Winston
~Nadia
This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and buy from the linked websites, I will receive a small percentage of the value of your order. The amount you pay is not changed.
Baby blankets are perfect for cuddling, swaddling, napping, and security. They also make the perfect luxurious handmade gift. This video tutorial is of an heirloom vintage inspired baby blanket using the ripple puff stitch. I found this free written pattern online. I followed the pattern pretty close but I added a border around the entire piece. You can find the free pattern here.
This generously sized super soft cuddly blanket is perfect for any nursery layette and is sure to be a baby or toddler’s favorite. I used one skein of each color of Bernat Baby Coordinates yarnIced Mint, White, Baby Pink, and Soft Blue. I’m in awe of how pretty this stitch turned out using these colors!
Follow along with this video to learn how to make this lovely baby blanket.
A handmade heirloom blanket is a gift that a child will cherish forever. It can be made in a medley of colors or one solid tone. This is adaptable to any type of yarn and you can go up in hook size as well.
Although the video tutorial shows how to make a baby blanket, you can apply the same technique and continue to expand the size by increasing the amount of chains. This pattern is in multiples of 18 (+2), and I explain in the video how to make it bigger.
This will add and elegant touch to any nursery.
Teacher: Nadia Fuad
Video and Editing: Fuad Azmat (My Daddy)
Many times I stop to admire vintage baby clothing that I see in thrift shops and antique stores. I marvel over the craftsmanship of some of the old-fashioned designs, and I try to find ways to revive those patterns to keep the antiquity, yet add a little bit of modern feel. Today’s project is one such item. This baby bonnet is reminiscent of days gone by. This would make the perfect gift as part of a newborn layette. With a few modifications, you can make this for either gender.
Feel free to add some embellishments such as a small flower on the design to make it more feminine, or a bow would be darling! You can interchange your ribbon with lace or a different color ribbon. You could add a little button for a more masculine look. Get creative with yours! This timeless look and classic design will sure to please anyone and will look precious on any baby, boy or girl.
Follow this video to learn how to make this bonnet.
My dad will continue to be the videographer, editor, and photographer for our videos when I move away.
Support YARNutopia today so we can continue to bring you clear, quality crochet tutorials even after I move into my new home!
There will be an added expense of more travel and hopefully this won’t deter our ability to provide consistent videos on a weekly basis.
Pattern:
Designed by Nadia Fuad
Questions? Leave a comment! You may sell items made from my pattern, but please reference my name and Etsy Shop (YARNutopia). Please do not copy and post this pattern and claim it as your own. Thank you, and happy hooking!
Ch: chain
YO: Yarn over
Sl st: slip stitch
HDC: Half double crochet
FLO: Front Loop Only
BLO: Back Loop Only
Notes:
This bonnet starts working in rounds, then is worked in rows.
Bonnet Pattern:Work this entire part in the BLO!
ch 2 Rnd 1: 9 hdc in 2nd ch from hook. Sl st to beginning st, ch 1 (9)
Rnd 2: HDC 2 in each st around. Sl st to beginning st. ch 1 (18)
Rnd 3: HDC 2 in first st, HDC in next st, *HDC 2 in next st, HDC in next st, repeat from * around. Sl st to beginning st. ch 1. (27)
Rnd 4: HDC 2 in first st, HDC in next st, *HDC 2 in next st, HDC in next 2 sts, repeat from * around. Sl st to beginning st. Ch 1. (36)
Rnd 5: HDC 2 in first st, HDC in next st. *HDC 2 in next st, HDC in next 3 sts, repeat from * around. Sl st to beginning st. ch 1. (45)
Rnd 6: HDC 2 in first st, HDC in next st, *HDC 2 in next st, HDC in next 4 sts, repeat from * around. Sl st to beginning st. ch 1. (54)
Now working in rows:
Side of bonnet: Row 1: in BLO, HDC in next 50 sts. Leave last 4 sts unworked., ch 1 turn (50) Row 2: in FLO, HDC across, ch 1 turn (50)
Row 3: in BLO, HDC across, ch 1 turn. (50)
Rows 4-8: Repeat rows 2 & 3 ending on a repeat of row 2.
Scallop edging:
sc in first st, skip 2 sts, *5dc in next st, sk 2 sts, sc in next st, repeat from * across ending with sc in last st.
Tassels:
attach yarn to last st of row before scalloped edge.
Ch 31, sl st in 2nd ch from hook and across whole ch.
Fasten off once you get back to beginning where you attached.
Weave in ends. Repeat for other side of bonnet.
Weave ribbon around edge of bonnet through row right before scalloped edge letting it hang down the length of the tassels.
Enjoy this video and subscribe to my channel on YouTube for more tutorials on how to crochet!
Leave a comment, and share with your friends!
This post contains affiliate links, which I may be compensated for when you make a purchase. That means if you click on any link and buy from the linked websites, I will receive a small percentage of the value of your order. The amount you pay is not changed. Thank you for all your support in clicking the links in my blog!! You all are so amazing!! ~Nadia
The yarn provided for this pattern is courtesy of Red Heart Yarns