Learning to crochet during lockdown

I’ve always been a crafty person and I enjoy making things. Whether that be a cake, something with my girls or perhaps a little something for myself.

I’ve previously sewn toys, clothes and quilts amongst other things. I’ve also turned my hand to embroidery and now I’ve decided that I’d like to learn how to crochet. I think it’s one of my coping mechanisms when times are tough. Learning something new to help me keep calm and give me something to focus on. You can find more ideas over in this article from BetterHelp called 7 Ways to Stay Calm (And Manage Anxiety) While Social Distancing, Sheltering In Place, Or Under Self-Quarantine — Coronavirus (COVID-19)

I’m not sure where the idea came from to learn to crochet. It’s something that I have attempted in the past, but I found it too difficult. Recently however, I discovered a lady called Sarah who runs Bella Coco Crochet. It’s a website, blog, shop etc and she does these amazing video tutorials that makes crocheting really easy and simple to understand.

After watching some of her videos, I bought some yarn and gave it a go. I started out with her ‘Absolute beginner’ series of videos which involves learning different stitches such as double crochet and treble crochet. Here’s a photo of one of those that I tried.

They’re not perfect, but practise will hopefully make perfect. I then decided to try a granny square.

I then saw a Bella Coco video for making flowers, butterflies and a teddy bear granny square and I think it’s fair to say that I’m ‘hooked’!

I’ve both of my daughters a granny square blanket and now can’t wait to move onto my next project.

There are so many things I’d like to make. A blanket for myself, a macrame wall hanging that I saw in Crochet Now magazine, a storage basket for my wool, a cushion for our sofa and so much more!

Have you learnt a new skill during lockdown? I’d love to know. Let me know in the comments below.