Posts made in January 2020

skeins on yarn on a wooden background

How to Choose Yarn for a Crochet Project

Crocheting is a great hobby. Like many crafters, you may want to buy yarn online for your next project: it’s quick and convenient! However, if you are starting, you may be overwhelmed by the choices available to you. This post will cover a few of the basics of picking the right materials for your crochet project.

First, let’s go over the materials. There are three popular types of yarn material that are suited for beginners: wool, cotton, and acrylic. Wool is among the most popular as it is flexible and resilient. Cotton is a smart choice if you want your piece to hold its shape better. Meanwhile, acrylic is popular for its value-oriented cost and wide availability of colors.

Another characteristic you need to consider is the weight. In this sense, “weight” is the thickness of a yarn thread. The higher the number, the thicker the yarn will be. Beginners may want to try their hands at a medium-weight yarn, which is typically #4. Also, take note of your crochet hooks. They may have a recommended weight to use with them as well.

Other things you may want to note when buying yarn online include texture, pricing, color selection, and available yardage. Selecting the yarn that is right for you ultimately comes down to the types of projects you want to complete. So whether you want to get some practice in or are planning on crafting a scarf, always remember that the kind of materials you work with will set the tone for the entire experience.

woman cutting fabric

Tips for Selecting Fabric

Fabric is a versatile material. It can make beautiful outfits, comforting bedsheets, tablecloths, and so much more. When starting your next project, it is important to consider what kind of fabric best meets your needs. Today, we will go over a few tips when selecting fabric for your next project. Keep these points in mind the next time you visit one of your local fabric stores in Long Beach, CA.

First things first: are you working with a pattern? In many cases, the designers for patterns already have a specific material in mind, so it’s best to do things according to their directions. Choosing a different material from what is listed may drastically affect the appearance of your finished work.

Next, it’s time to talk about the materials themselves. There are many different types of fabric, such as cotton, satin, and chiffon–to name a few. All of these fabrics have distinct characteristics that can make them the perfect selection for one project, but not necessarily another one. Your skill level is also a factor. If you are starting to craft with fabric, consider an easy-to-manipulate material like medium-weight cotton.

When selecting your fabric, consider the following factors:

 

  • How It Feels
  • Whether the Fabric Is Natural, Synthetic, or Chemically Treated
  • The Care Instructions

Fabric opens up a world of craft ideas. You can turn your projects into household items or a fashion statement. It all begins with your ideas–and the materials. Visit your local fabric store and discover your options.