Thursday, June 13, 2013

Past Entries in CGOA Design Competition

I loved looking at the entries for the previous CGOA Design Competitions! Doris Chan has made it so easy to browse them using her Flickr account. It's such an exciting thing to look at all this talent in one place.

CGOA 2010 Design Competition 

CGOA 2011 Design Competition

CGOA 2012 Design Competition

There is still plenty of time to enter your new and exciting designs for the 2013 Design Competition! Please visit the Crochet Guild of America website here to find out more details. Enjoy and Good Luck!

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Enter the Professional Development Committee's GIVEAWAY CONTEST!

Giveaways are a lot of fun and this one is no exception! CGOA's Professional Development Committee is excited to tell you about a fabulous free giveaway sponsored by Lion Brand yarn.



Lion Brand is the proud sponsor of Professional Development Day which will be held in Indianapolis, IN on July 17 and in Charlotte, NC October 2. You can find all the details here http://www.knitandcrochetshow.com/ and we hope you can join us for at least one show!

What Can You Win?

Take a look and see the fabulous prize package you can win. (Disclaimer: All photos shown are meant as samples only. Yarn photos do not indicate the color that may be included in the prize package.)

Copyright: All photos are copyright Lion Brand Yarn and are used with permission.






  • A tape measure, tote bag, and crochet hook

How Can You Enter?

To enter, simply comment on this blog post. If you've attended Professional Development Day in the past, tell us what is your favorite part about it! If you've never been, tell us why you would love to attend. You can also earn a second entry by visiting and "liking" the CGOA Professional Development Facebook page.


Contest Rules
Contest will be managed by the Rafflecopter app on the CGOA Professional Development Facebook page. Winner will be selected by random drawing by Rafflecopter.
Open to U.S. and Canadian residents only.
Must be 18 years or older to enter.
Void where prohibited by law.

Contest ends July 1, 2013, at midnight EDT.

Winner will be announced on the CGOA Professional Development Facebook page.

Winner must provide a valid email address to the CGOA Professional Development Facebook page via a Direct Message to the page by midnight EDT on July 8, 2013. If a message is not received by that time, the prize package will be forfeit and another winner will be selected.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. We hereby release Facebook of any liability. Winner(s) will be contacted by email 48 hours after receiving email address.

Good luck to everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, May 19, 2013

20th Anniversary Logo Design Contest


An important milestone, the twentieth anniversary of CGOA, is fast approaching and a grand celebration will take place in 2014. Where did the time go? There is no time like the present to begin planning a fabulous celebration to honor all our members past and present who have contributed so much to our beloved organization.

The celebration committee wants to tap into the talents of the creative members of our organization, so they are having a contest to find the best logo for the anniversary celebration. The theme is A Proud Past, A Brilliant Future and the celebration colors are emerald green, white and platinum. Pins and other memorabilia will be made using the winning logo design and it will also be used for all sorts of promotional materials to spread the word near and far that CGOA is alive and well after 20 years!

Please send some of your creative energy our way; we would love to have members who are passionate about crochet lend their talents to the creation of this very special logo. The winner will be announced at the 2013 Chain Link Crochet conference in Indianapolis. and will receive a pin with her winning design plus a monetary prize of $250.00 from Crochetville. Deadline: June 25, 2013.

Entry Rules:

-Deadline: June 25, 2013

-Submit via email to: CGOA@offinger.com with 20thLogoContest in the subject line.

-CGOA members only are eligible to enter the contest

-Winner will receive a logo pin with the winning design and $250.00 from Crochetville!

-Submit your logo design in color on an 8 ½ X 10” paper. It may be hand drawn and does not have to be camera-ready format.

-Design must be original and never used elsewhere
Incorporate the anniversary colors however you choose; Incorporate crochet or a hook, if possible; Have fun, be creative!

-Individuals may submit as many ideas as they
-Winner will be selected by blind voting by the Past Presidents’ committee and announced at the 2013 Chain Link conference in Indianapolis

-Winner will be featured in an issue of Chain Link newsletter and recognized at the 2014 Chain Link crochet conference

Professional Development Day: Social Media


Are you stumped by social media? Does it all seem very overwhelming? Amy Shelton is going to help take the mystery out of it! You don't want to miss her Professional Development Day presentation of "Making the Most of Social Media"!

Facebook. Twitter. Pinterest. Instagram. LinkedIn. Ravelry. Crochetville. There are so many social media sites, and a designer has so little time. Amy Shelton helps our professionals learn the benefits of each site and shows how to create an action plan for spending online time wisely and effectively. Sign up today!

Visit Knit & Crochet Show for more information.

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Book Review: Tunisian Cables to Crochet



Title: Tunisian Cables to Crochet
Author: Kim Guzman

Book Review by Marie Segares (www.undergroundcrafter.com)


Many crocheters look upon knit cables with envy and now there’s a book that can help you to make stunning crocheted cable projects.

Tunisian Cables to Crochet by Kim Guzman explores the world of Tunisian crochet cables, which look more similar to knit cables than cables crocheted with post stitches.

The book starts off with a friendly introduction from Kim, and moves quickly into the Basic Stitches section. If you are new to Tunisian crochet or need a refresher, this section includes written directions along with process photos of the basic Tunisian crochet stitches used in this book. 

In Step-by-Step Tunisian Cables, Kim introduces her method for creating Tunisian cables, which is a different technique from what I’ve seen described in other books and, from what Kim tells me, this method is different than what she's used in the past as well--an all-new method of doing Tunisian cables. This section includes detailed instructions along with multiple process photos for both right- and left-leaning cables.
 
Kim then shares 11 intermediate level patterns featuring several types of Tunisian cables. The projects are made with heavier yarns (medium and bulky weight) so that the dimensionality of the cables is really emphasized.  Kim’s projects are in a range of sizes so you can practice your cable techniques on something small, like the Geneva Headband, or something large, like the Verona Ruana.  Several of the larger projects are created using a join-as-you-go method, so several smaller components form the final project and some projects allow you to use a regular crochet hook instead of the longer Tunisian (afghan) hook. The book finishes with appendices that include metric conversion and an illustrated stitch guide.

All of the patterns in this book are rated intermediate, but Kim includes detailed instructions of Tunisian crochet basics and her method for cables.  As a result, a (patient) advanced beginner could also dive into these projects.  The patterns are written with abbreviations and there are no stitch symbols used in this book.  For Tunisian crochet newbies, Kim references the relevant instruction pages when stitches or cables are first introduced in each pattern. 

Although there are 11 great projects in this book, it is really more of a “technique” book than a project book. (Ravelry members can see all of the projects from the book here.)  Even if the particular projects are not in your style, this is the most comprehensive book on Tunisian crochet cables available. Once the reader is comfortable with Kim’s method, he or she can easily adapt other Tunisian crochet cable patterns. 

For readers who need more support, there is an online companion class, Tunisian Cables and Lace, available for $24.95 through Annie’s Catalog. (CGOA members, remember to use your membership ID for your CGOA-discounted rate.)

I would recommend this book to crocheters interested in expanding their Tunisian crochet repertoire, and to crocheters who don’t knit but like the look of knit cables. Although Tunisian crochet cables can be tricky, this book provides a lot of detailed instruction that can help out a Tunisian crochet newbie.

Project types: 3 scarves, 3 wraps/ruanas, 2 hats, 2 mitts, 1 headband
Skill levels: Intermediate
Retail price: $9.95


Full disclosure: A free review copy of Tunisian Cables to Crochet was provided by Annie's Publishing. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Reversible Baby Afghans



Title: Reversible Baby Afghans
Authors: Barbara Shaffer

Book Review by Jennifer J. Cirka (www.jaybirddesigns.com)

When I saw the stunning blanket design on the cover of Barbara Shaffer's book, Reversible Baby Afghans, I immediately fell in love and knew I had to review this book. The impressive ripple design with the bold color accent, the fantastic textured stitches, and splendid photography shown on the cover intrigued me to see what more Ms. Shaffer had to offer. I wasn't disappointed.

Her book features 5 beautiful designs perfect for baby, or anyone else for that matter! I love how she incorporates post stitches to create surprising details, and how those details translate to the opposite side of the blanket. Sometimes it was hard for me to tell which side I liked better. All of the patterns in the book are of intermediate skill level and use light weight yarns. The directions are clearly written and I enjoyed the beautiful photography. In the back of the book you will find the general instructions along with some definitions.

Last night, my husband conveniently reminded me that a co-worker is soon to have a baby. So what did this crocheter do? Of course I grabbed some baby pink yarn and a hook and got right to work on the Building Blocks design featured in Barbara's book. I really am happy with how it is turning out. The pattern is not difficult, but looks stunning. It is easy to read and follow. I can't wait to see how the finished project turns out.



If you are looking for a unique blanket to make that will surely become a family heirloom, be sure to check out the designs in Reversible Baby Afghans by Barbara Shaffer. It will probably be my go-to baby blanket book for a while because I have absolutely fallen in love with the designs and can't wait to make each and every one of them!

(Leisure Arts, 2012, 146 Pages, $9.95, ISBN-13: 978-1-60900-145-2)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Reversible Baby Afghans was provided by Leisure Arts. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Short Row Tunisian Fashion





Title: Short Row Tunisian Fashion
Author: Kim Guzman

Book Review by ReneƩ Rodgers (www.crochetrenee.com)


In Short Row Tunisian Fashion, the Queen of Tunisian crochet brings us yet another fabulous offering showing us how to create fabulous garments and accessories while exploring the technique of shaping with short rows. 

What is a short row, you ask? 


It is the technique of only working a partial row or rows to create shaping within the structure of a piece. It really is much easier to do than it is to describe. 

In her latest offering, Guzman creates several stunning garments, including the hooded riding cape, which is really two separate pieces that can be worn together or separately for three totally separate, but equally fabulous looks.


I am also very taken by the Sapphire Wrap, which looks like a knitted shawl, right down to the lacy border. 


There are a total of six projects, made with anything from light weight yarn (3) to bulky (5). There are photographic illustrations on the basics of making a short row in the front of the book, and just as helpful photos in the back of the book, illustrating the basic techniques, as well as how to do increases and decreases in Tunisian crochet. 

But wait, that’s not all! There are links to follow on your computer for many of the patterns and techniques for video tutorials to help you master Tunisian short rows.

This newest offering from Guzman does not disappoint; it offers good solid instruction on specific projects. Get this and let it whet your appetite for Tunisian short rows. Who knows? With the instruction that you get from this book, you might even find this book to be a jumping off point for creating your own short row designs!

(Leisure Arts, 2013; 36 pages, $9.99, ISBN: 978-1609006747)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Short Row Tunisian Fashion was provided by Leisure Arts. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Crocheting with Lucy Loop





Title: Crocheting with Lucy Loop
Author: Karen D. Thompson

Book Review by Marie Segares (www.undergroundcrafter.com)


Crocheting with Lucy Loop is a storybook on a mission to teach crochet to children aged six to ten years.  The book’s author is Karen D. Thompson, a CGOA Master of Basic Stitches, a crochet teacher, and the owner of Hooksations, a traveling boutique specializing in crochet creations. 

The book opens with a story many of us crocheters are all too familiar with – the yarn stash. Lucy Loop is just one of many yarns waiting to be summoned forth to become a project. As Karen writes, 

“Lucy hoped and hoped that one day she would be picked too. Lucy wondered which fabric she would become. Maybe a nice warm hat or a long scarf! A sweater or blanket would be a dream come true.” 

Eventually, Lucy’s patience is rewarded when she is picked up and works together with The Great Hook to be crocheted into a scarf. 

After the story ends, Karen shares some tips for getting started crocheting with a child, along with a simple scarf pattern. It’s obvious from her tips that Karen has successfully taught children to crochet before. Karen’s enthusiasm is clear on every page of the book, and I think that will transfer to the adult and child reading along. 

Although the book is self-published, the printing standards are high and it looks just like any other picture book you might see on a child’s shelf. The font is large and easy to read, and the pictures are colorful and fun.There are a few minor grammatical errors which will, of course, only be noticed by the adult reading the book. 

The real highlights for me of Crocheting with Lucy Loop are the illustrations by Tony Smith, which use vibrant colors and bold facial expressions to bring the characters to life, and the tips that Karen shares for teaching children to crochet. This book would be a great gift for a young child you want to teach to crochet, or for a parent or grandparent who is struggling with teaching their child to crochet.

Project type and skill level: 1 beginner scarf. 
Retail price: $12.99 ($9.99 Kindle ebook)


Full disclosure: A free review copy of Crocheting with Lucy Loop was provided by Hooksations. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Curvy Crochet





Title: Curvy Crochet, 8 Fashions in Sizes Large - 4X
Authors: Marlaina Bird and Jill Wright

Book Review by Jennifer J. Cirka (www.jaybirddesigns.com)

Fashion

Figure Flattering

Plus Size

These words are becoming more and more popular these days. And the crochet industry is taking notice! Crochet designers Marlaina Bird and Jill Wright are ahead of the game with their fabulous book, Curvy Crochet. Featuring eight beautiful designs, this book showcases sizes large to 4X. You will find attractive fashions along with accessories for larger sizes.

All of the designs in the book are of the easy skill level and use super fine to medium weight yarns. The patterns are clearly written and the designs feature some gorgeous crochet stitch patterns. The designs include a long sleeved sweater, two vests, two short-sleeved tunics, a bolero, a stole, and a felted bag. You will easily find something that you will love out of these amazing choices.

With Spring around the corner, I had to break out my hooks and make the Peasant Top for myself! The style is extremely versatile and the stitch pattern is pretty and easy once you get the hang of it. I think my mom would love an A-Line Vest from the book and, when I find the time, I'd really like to make a Cowl Neck Tunic for my sister.

Jennifer Cirka wearing the Peasant Top
she crocheted herself from the book

Curvy Crochet by Marlaina Bird and Jill Wright is a superior book for all fashion conscious, plus-sized, women and the crocheters that love them. Each design is well worth the time and effort taken to create them. Every classic piece will only enhance your wardrobe and turn heads. You'll happily flaunt those curves while looking and feeling beautiful!
 

(Leisure Arts, 2011, 60 Pages, $14.95, ISBN-13: 978-1-60900-028-8)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Curvy Crochet was provided by Leisure Arts. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Crochet Scarves




Title: Crochet Scarves: Fabulous Fashions-Various Techniques
Author: Sharon Hernes Silverman

Book Review by ReneƩ Rodgers (www.crochetrenee.com)


In Crochet Scarves: Fabulous Fashions-Various Techniques, Sharon Hernes Silverman has created a collection of 21 scarves that vary from basic crochet stitches to more advanced techniques, such as Broomstick Lace and Tunisian. The wonderful thing about this new offering by Hernes Silverman is that with such a great variety of projects, this book is suitable for crocheters at every level as well as beginning stitchers who want to learn more than just the basic stitches.

There are four patterns rated “easy”, eleven “intermediate” patterns, and six at the “experienced” level. The yarns used in the projects vary from laceweight to worsted weight, and every weight in between.  There is even one pattern with the ruffle type yarn that is so popular right now, that anyone can follow to create a trendy ruffled scarf. The patterns are presented with both written and charted instructions, with a page in the back of the book on how to read charts. There are basic technique tutorials in the back of the book. One of the features of this book that I really like are the fact that the illustrations for techniques are photographic, which I think makes the instructions much easier to follow.

Personally, I don’t tend to make a lot of scarves, but the scarves in this book definitely make me want to grab a hook and create some of these beautiful creations! In fact, I am pretty sure that there is a skein of mohair in my stash that is just made for the “Champagne Goblets” scarf. Maybe with this book, I can even get a head start on my holiday crocheting!



(Stackpole Books, 2012; 160 pages, $19.95, ISBN: 978-0811700818)

Full disclosure: A free review copy of  Crochet Scarves: Fabulous Fashions-Various Techniques  was provided by Stackpole Books. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Book Review: Learn to Crochet Socks for the Family




Title: Learn to Crochet Socks for the Family
Author: Darla Sims

Book Review by Marie Segares (www.undergroundcrafter.com)


Learn to Crochet Socks for the Family by Darla Sims is a pattern booklet that includes valuable information about sock design and construction. The book opens with a friendly introduction from Darla, who explains that the book gives “the crocheter… lots of choices.”  The first six pages of the book are a sock primer. Darla walks the reader through creating a gauge swatch for socks, yarn substitution, and the anatomy of a sock. She explains how to choose stitch patterns to design your own toe-up socks, and gives tips for customizing an existing sock pattern. She includes sizing charts for children’s, women’s, and men’s socks. Budding designers will appreciate the “recipes” she includes. She provides four pages that explain how to design top-down socks (in rounds or in rows; with a flap, add-on, or turned heel; and a tapered, rounded, or gathered toe) or toe-up socks (with an add-on or turned heel). 

After this introductory section, Darla dives into 15 intermediate level patterns. A full-page photograph of each sock, along with the first page of instructions, are included. (The rest of the patterns are continued towards the end of the booklet.) Patterns are written with U.S. abbreviations and terminology.
The booklet ends with a general instructions appendix which includes information on yarn weight, crochet hooks, and pattern abbreviations and pattern reading tips, along with written and illustrated instructions for special techniques and stitches used in the booklet. 

Overall, the patterns in this book are visually appealing and explore a range of construction techniques.  Most are shown clearly in primarily solid yarns, but two socks (including the one on the front cover) use variegated yarns that make construction and stitch patterns less obvious. The booklet doesn't include international stitch symbols and includes mostly women’s sock patterns.

I would recommend this book to crocheters interested in learning to crochet socks, or sock crocheters who want to branch out into designing or customizing existing sock patterns. The design primer and recipe patterns are very clear, and allow this booklet to stand out from the other sock pattern booklets on the market today.

Project types: 9 Toe Up/6 Top Down; 9 Turned/4 Add-On/2 Flap Heels; 3 Tapered/2 Rounded/1 Gathered Toe
Sizing: 1 Men’s, 3 Children’s, and 10 Women’s Sock patterns
Retail price: $14.95

Full disclosure: A free review copy of Learn to Crochet Socks for the Family was provided by Leisure Arts. Although I accept free products for review, I do not accept additional compensation, nor do I guarantee a positive review.  My reviews are based entirely on my honest opinions.

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Announcement: Masters Program


The Masters Program Committee is proud to announce a new component of the Masters Program – a series of articles about stitches and techniques. Committee members, who are also portfolio reviewers, will write the articles.

The first article, in the latest Chain Link newsletter, is about “grouped stitches” and looks closely at the similarities and differences in popcorns, bobbles, puffs, and clusters. This article was written by Karen C. K. Ballard, and includes photos, directions for the stitches used in the swatch, and a list of references so that you can study different designers’ thoughts about the topic.

Susan Lowman and Jane Rimmer, the co-chairs of the Masters Program Committee, see these articles as a teaching component of the Program. The articles are intended to help crocheters learn new stitches, practice the stitches on a swatch or small project, master techniques and understand concepts. The Committee hopes that these articles will help crocheters to assess their skill level, and also help them determine if they are ready to take on the Masters Program. The articles will be compiled and archived on the CGOA website so that you can reference them at any time.

The Committee is creating a list of topics for future articles. If you have a stitch or technique that you are having trouble mastering, contact us with your suggestion for an article.

For more information about the Masters Program, check out the CGOA website: http://www.crochet.org/?page=MastersInfo

The Masters Committee members (co-chairs and reviewers) are excited about this addition to the Masters Program! We hope your crochet skills and knowledge will be enhanced as a result of this new component of the Masters Program.

Look for these articles in the latest and future Chain Link newsletters.

Jane Rimmer
Chain Link Masters Program Committee




Sunday, March 24, 2013

Come Join the Fun!

Hello! I’m the new kid on the board, so I’m just figuring out what the CGOA board is all about. I’m excited to be a part of helping to shape crochet in America and, more important, finding out what it is that you want to see in your CGOA, both on the shiny new website and at the Chain Link conference.

As editor of Interweave Crochet, I am all about crochet. All day, every day. How great is that? Maybe you are just as fortunate. Maybe not.

If not, I have the next best thing for you: Close your eyes. Picture yourself in a place filled with people with hooks and yarn. People who don’t ask you if you’re knitting. People whose eyes don’t glaze over when you respond that you’re crocheting. People who don’t say “Huh, an old lady down the street used to do that.” The people in this room come up, touch your sleeve, ask what crochet stitch that is, where you got the pattern, what yarn you used. They ask if you used an inline hook to get the bullions so smooth. They might ask you if you’ve seen Lily Chin or Doris Chan or Tammy Hildebrand roaming around. Because you are that kind of person -- the kind who hangs out with Lily and Doris and Tammy, just crocheting and shootin’ the breeze.

Ok, now open your eyes and fetch your calendar (go ahead -- I’ll wait). Circle these dates: July 17-21 and October 2-6. Now dial up your Google maps. Figure out how far it is from your house to Indianapolis. Now to Charlotte. Go for whichever is closest. Then sign yourself up for the Chain Link Conference. Because you deserve to be in a room filled with crocheters who love crochet.

And, really? These people are serious fun. Don’t believe me? Check this out. (And in case you missed it there at the end, watch the video that was made at the 2010 Chain Link Conference)

You’ll learn, you’ll crochet, you’ll do nothing but breathe this great craft for three full days (and, yeah, you might have to buy a commemorative hook and a skein or two of yarn, to work on in the lobby with Doris and Tammy and Lily. Because you are that kind of person.)

I look forward to seeing you there. Let’s have a coffee and crochet a motif. Can’t wait!

Best,
Marcy

p.s. If you have some swatches and spare yarn lying around looking for a home, why not whip them up into a blanket? Our friends over at Crochetville are gathering blankets and donations for Project Night Night, which is seeking handmade blankets 50” x 60” or smaller. A patchwork blanket will help you clear out your stash and help a homeless child stay warm and feel loved. Win, win!

Friday, March 22, 2013

Hi Fellow Crocheters!

My name is Jane Rimmer, and I’m excited about talking to you about crochet and the CGOA. Thank you to Amy, and Donna, & Crochetville for sponsoring this month-long blog tour for National Crochet Month.

This year is my 4th and final year on the CGOA Board of Directors. It’s been fun and educational working with others who have a love of crochet. Currently I am the Treasurer for the National Board. During my years on the Board, I have been involved with several committees, related to crochet education. I have served on the Event Education committee, and served as both co-chair and Board Liaison. The Event Education committee is responsible for selecting teacher and classes for the crochet portion of the Knit & Crochet Shows. The committee also selects and holds free, education programs such as “Learn to Crochet”, “Learn to Read Patterns” and “Learn Tunisian” that have been held at recent conferences. For more information on this year’s Knit & Crochet Shows, check out the website:

This year I’ve also taken on the co-chair of the Masters Program Committee, working with Susan Lowman and a great group of reviewers. The Masters Program is a correspondence course where candidates produce a portfolio of swatches and answers to questions to show that they’ve mastered the program materials. The portfolios are then reviewed by two reviews, and the candidates received a certificate and a pin when they pass the course. For more information about the Masters Program, check at the CGOA website:

I’ve also been the CGOA email correspondent for several years. This is a volunteer position not related to the Board. It involves answering questions that people pose to the CGOA. The questions can be simple to answer, such as how to make a specific stitch, or explaining a pattern abbreviation, or where to donate an antique crocheted family item; or the questions can require a little research such as substitutions for yarn used in a vintage pattern.

My committee involvement reflect my interest in continuing education I’m an avid proponent of life long learning. And I can attest that you can spend a lifetime learning new things in crochet, and there will always be something new to learn. I have been crocheting for more than 50 years. In the past few years I’ve taken classes in broomstick lace and Tunisian techniques, building on the basics that I learned in the 1960’s. I’ve learned some beading and jewelry making, Entrelac, and delta. This year I’m looking forward to learning the crocodile stitch.

In addition to continuous learning, I love teaching, both math and crochet. I have taught at Knitters’ Day Out in the Harrisburg area, and at the Hershey Public Library, and my local CGOA Chapter. Along with teaching classes and private lessons, I am an instructor on Ravelry’s Learn Crochet group. I am also a contract crocheter, and love working with some very talented designers. I am the co-founder and current President of Those (Y)arn Crocheters, the Harrisburg Chapter of the CGOA. We meet twice monthly, once at the East Shore Library in Harrisburg and once at the Hershey Public Library. We are always welcoming new members. For more information:

My designs are in Tunisian crochet, have been published in the Crochet Pattern a Day Calendar 2007, and Across the Board 2010, 2011 and 2012. Across the Board is a publication by CGOA that features designs by members of the Board of Directors. You can obtain the pattern book by joining or renewing your CGOA membership.

Don’t forget that Crochetville is helping to support Project Night Night throughout the March for National Crochet Month. Project Night Night is a non-profit that provides a tote bag of comfort items to homeless children. I’m going add this worthwhile charity to our Chapter’s list of charities for this year. Please check out Project Night Night:

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Get Hooked!



Kudos to Amy and Donna for this cross-country crochet tour….it’s been amazing.

I’m lucky because I work in the yarn industry. I live crocheting and knitting 24/7. I sometimes point to my work and my natural aversion to “regular” group meetings as the reason I never joined my local guild sooner. Then I had an epiphany or you could say I got “hooked” (sorry, I couldn’t resist) when the Craft Yarn Council, my employer, organized the first Knit-Out & Crochet events in New York City in the late 1990s. I reached out to area guild presidents asking for volunteers to help us teach crochet basics. The response from the guilds was amazing and that’s when I first got to meet so many of the members of the New York City Crochet Guild

I confess the other reason I hesitated joining the guild was that while I love to crochet and knit and have since I taught myself as a kid I’m happy stitching moderately easy to easy intermediate projects. I don’t aspire to tackle complicated projects so I assumed I’d be laughed out of any guild because I wasn’t creating drop-dead gorgeous projects. Of course I was wrong. I came to realize everyone is at a different level, has a different interest and there are no crochet police lurking at the meetings! It didn’t matter what I crocheted so much as I shared a love of crochet and fiber, which I certainly did.  What is most appealing about the guild meetings is that they are just plain fun. There’s lots of cheering when members show off projects during Show and Tell…and lots of laughs that come with sharing.

Then my involvement with the Warm Up America Foundation brought me to CGOA national and I’m currently a Board member, another epiphany. Hopefully, many of you have heard about this national charity (www.WarmUpAmerica.org) where crocheters and knitters volunteer to create afghans for people in need.  I set up a booth to promote the charity at the Knit and Crochet Show, which hosts both CGOA and TKGA conferences. Of course, seeing the displays of new yarns at the marketplace was great but it was meeting the crocheters from around the country that made the trip so worthwhile. Then there were the classes, informal get- togethers and fashion show that rounded out an amazing weekend.

Ok, I confess I’m probably not going to tackle any expert projects any time soon, but I took away so many ideas from the show that I could incorporate into my own level of projects. Seeing first hand how other crocheters, as well as the industry’s top designers, are using all the interesting new fibers and colors with basic stitches, was inspiring. I’d urge every crochet enthusiast to try to get to a national conference---there are two a year and they rotate around the country—but if you can’t, check out your local guild or start your own. I promise, you’ll get hooked too!

Mary Colucci