A Stitch by any other name
You want to learn to crochet, but there are hundreds of stitches and techniques out there. Where do you even start? A stitch by any other name indicates that things are what they are, no matter what name you give them. Learning to crochet is fun and exciting. You can learn to create your own stitches, patterns, and designs. Furthermore, crochet lends itself nicely to your creative side.
“I am a beginner, where do I start?”
But as a beginner you may think “Where do I begin?” It can be quite overwhelming to see all the crochet stitches and techniques out there today. The very basic stitches are the best ones to learn first. Most all of the other stitches and patterns are created as variations or combinations of these stitches. Of course, there are a few exceptions to this, like the star stitch, broomstick lace, and a few others. These basic stitches include the chain, slip stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, and treble crochet. Be sure to check out my post on the 6 basic Stitches in Crochet.
I know and understand the basic stitches, what do I do now?
If you are not a beginner, but wish to expand your knowledge of crochet, where do you start? There are plenty of stitches or stitch combinations that you can learn. Crochet stitches are great at sparking a project idea. Find a new stitch that intrigues you or catches your eye. Learn how to make that stitch, practice the stitch until you are comfortable with it, and then find a pattern that uses the stitch. Head on over to my Stitch Library to find a new stitch to learn. The great thing about the internet is that most posts about how to make a stitch also give a pattern that uses that stitch. You Tube has a large selection of video tutorials on every stitch imaginable. Every stitch has its own unique qualities. It is those qualities that make it perfect for a particular type of project.I have several stitch tutorials on my YouTube channel. Head on over and find one to try!
Also, keep in mind, even the 6 basic stitches worked in varying ways can add a new look to the stitch. Placing the basic stitch together with other stitches, behind the post of another stitch, or in the front loop or back loop only changes the look of that stitch. Check out my post on stitch variations to see how to use the basic stitches into something unique and gorgeous.
Beaware! Stitches Are Known by many names.
However, be aware that often times there are multiple names for the same stitch. Also, understand that 2 completely different stitches can be called by the same name. I have tried to use the various names for the same stitch when posting them in my stitch library. I have listed the stitches under the name that I found to be most common name for that stitch pattern. What really matters is that you strive to learn new stitches and create those gorgeous finished products.
a sTITCH bY aNY oTHER nAME iS STILL a sTITCH
Don’t let multiple names of crochet stitches discourage or overwhelm you. Again, it does not matter what the stitch is called, if you it interests you, learn it. I encourage you, whether a beginner or a more advanced creator, to learn new stitches, try new patterns, and eventually create your very own patterns. That is the joy of crochet. It is a very creative art, and there is a lot left to one’s imagination.
I have compiled a list below of the stitches that I have found to have a variety of names. You may also find that some of the stitch names are used for multiple types of stitches. Many of these stitches are found in my Stitch Library. Take a moment and have a look.
DIFFERENT NAMES FOR THE SAME STITCH
- Moss Stitch, Woven Stitch, Linen Stitch, Granite Stitch
- Crossed Double Crochet, Criss-Cross Double Crochet
- Griddle Stitch, Lemon Peel Stitch, Up and Down Stitch
- Elizabeth Stitch, Mini Bean Stitch
- Suzette Stitch, Thicket Stitch
THEY’RE NOT THE SAME STITCH BUT HAVE THE SAME NAME
- The Grit Stitch (Crochet Stitch Dictionary by Sarah Hasell) is different than the Grit Stitch by Daisy Farm Crafts.
- The Woven Stitch (from bhookedcrochet.com) is different than from (Crochet Stitch Dictionary)
- The Waffle Stitch (from Nordichook.com ) is different than from (Crochet Stitch Dictionary)
Stitch Variations
A stitch can also have different variations of it. Some one has made a slight change to a stitch and given it a slightly different name. To make the Trinity Stitch for example, you work 3 single crochets over 3 stitches, but connecting them together at the top. [Begin cluster in same stitch as previous stitch worked. Insert hook back into previous stitch, yo, pull up loop. (insert hook in next st, yo (yarnover), pull up loop)x2. Yo, pull through all 4 loops on hook.] Then you have the Modified Trinity Stitch, which is made by using double crochet 3 together, but the placement of the stitches is slightly different.
In closing
As you can see, these are just a few of the examples of how stitch names can vary from one source to another. Again, this is not to make things more confusing, but to let you know that no matter what someone calls a stitch, it is still a stitch. That stitch is unique and adds texture and design to any project. So, do not be afraid of not knowing which is the correct name for the stitch, just learn a stitch. Most importantly, enjoy the art of crochet!
