Crochet and knitting combined tunic

Speaking of crocheted skirts, remember the project that Lynn was crocheting back in Oct?


Well, we managed to get the knitting going.



After the main body was knitted, Lynn then joined the smaller round of crocheted squares to the bust area.

As you can see, the project is by no means finished as the tail ends need to be tucked in.

Considering that this is officially her second crochet project and first attempt at knitting, I would say that she is doing a rather excellent job, don't you agree?

I think I might have mentioned this -- Lynn was very motivated when she first saw Jenny's combined knitting and crochet tunic piece. In fact, the concept of combining knitting and crochet seems to be the theme in the recent Japanese knitting magazines [Talk about blurring lines!] back from 2010 and this trend is still continuing strong this year.


However, using crochet as an edging alternative to finish any knitting projects or combining the use of knitting and crochet in a single project is also new at The Handiworks. Below are some past projects where the crochet technique is being employed, alongside with knitting.

• Kaylene's ribbed cardigan with crocheted ruffles edging
• Leena's knitted toddler dress with crocheted edging
• Susan's knitted blouse with frilly crocheted cuffs

Hence, when customers ask "which is easier, knitting or crochet?" (which I have briefly touched on in a much earlier post, I would always encourage them to learn both.

Actually several customers signed up with us immediately upon knowing that we teach crochet (including a left handed customer) as it seems that there are not many places here in Singapore that still offers crochet lessons these days. But as you can see from the examples above, knitting and crochet are complementary skills so that's why we continue to offer knitting and crochet lessons.

The main caveat I would emphasize here however, is that crochet has a slighter steeper learning curve as one needs to master the basic stitches and be reasonably comfortable with symbol or stitch reading before making any granny squares or amigurumi crochet toys/dolls -related patterns.

The reason?

• Granny squares uses a combination of various stitches and there are connecting techniques required to join them as you move along.

• Amigurumi dolls, on the other hand, usually comprise of multiple individually shaped parts such as head, body, limbs and ears etc -- meaning you have to work at least 6-9 parts before you stuff and seam them all together.

We don't want to put a damper but we much rather prefer to ensure that expectations are aligned. I am sure those who have learnt crochet will agree. Sharing is sexy