Trends in Knit & Crochet
Popular Crochet and Knit Projects for 2008 and Beyond
Openwork Crochet and Lace
Two words sum up current directions in knit and crochet: lace and openwork. Light, airy looks are always in fashion, but never more so than now. Not only is open lace beautiful; it also works up quickly and is terrific in warmer climates.
Crochet is making a big comeback all by itself within current fashion. Take a look at any women’s clothing catalog and it’s visible almost immediately. Crochet is also being heavily promoted in the fiber arts’ world. Crochet Me! and DoubleCrochet are just two new book titles written to “reclaim crochet back to the world of coolness.”
Knit and Crocheted Toys
Another big trend right now is Amigurami. Amigurami toys originated from Japanese tradition. Many books are available to provide patterns for those who would like them. These adorable large-headed toys are so easy to make, however, that no pattern is necessary, and they are a great beginning designer’s project.
Combination of Crafts
Many yarners both knit and crochet. (For those who don’t, now is a great time to learn.) The two go together very well. Combine knitting with crochet in the same project for a completely new look. Likewise, try adding knit and/or crochet to a sewing project.
Crochet and Knit Embellishments
- It has become quite popular to add crochet and/or knit to pre-made items such as T-shirts and sweatshirts. Consider adding crocheted sleeves to a T-shirt.
- Shoes are always fun to decorate. Thongs go from simple to spectacular with some added beads. Even pumps can be updated by adding lace threading or surface embroidering.
- Belts are being shown off on runways. Lovely leather or suede-looking yarn combined with beads creates beautifully stunning belts. Of course, belts can easily be made out of any kind of yarn, as long as it doesn’t stretch.
- Since granny squares are enjoying yet another resurgence, think about using them as building blocks when making belts or adding them as accents to other items.
Thread Crochet
Fashion is getting delicate. Thread Crochet is dainty and feminine, and make gorgeous additions to already-made clothing.
Many new yarns are available, such as soy yarn. A 100% Soy Silk fine yarn of lace weight is perfect for weaving, lace knitting, fine crochet and needlework; a bonus is that sewing enthusiasts find it suitable for both bobbin work and decorative stitching.
Green Movement
As the green movement continues to peak, environmentally-friendly projects keep gaining momentum as well. Scrap crochet is wildly popular, and with all the luscious yarns waiting to be tried, it won’t be losing momentum anytime soon.
Recycle. Think about cutting out a perfectly good pocket out of an old pair of blue jeans before discarding them. Add the pocket to a crocheted tote bag for inimitable style.
Related to “green-ness” is the resurgence of spinning. Although this craft is not for everyone, those who are so inclined will find plenty of resources to guide them in their quest to spin.
Color
Ethnic flavored items are becoming very vogue, especially amongst the younger crowd. Try Eastern European lace, filet crochet, African colors, Tex-Mex, or any favorite.
Fiber Art
Use yarn as a medium to create beautiful fiber art. It doesn’t always have to be wearable. Take some time to make something beautiful for beauty’s sake.
