The Art of Crochet

You may have seen items marked as “crochet” versus knit, or maybe even have purchased them; but when it comes to the fiber arts, we often overlook the process behind the pieces we wear. Last year, after shattering both of the heels in my foot at the same time, I found myself home from Penn, with months to spend in bed, and frankly nothing to do. After a conversation with my friend Grace, who had recently launched a collection of knit jerseys, I learned that crochet is a rather slow and tedious process that can’t be replicated by machine. Personally, I found it fascinating that there were still some activities that machines truly can’t accomplish. During my recovery, I decided to pour my pain and emotions into creating little items that made me happy. This was how I found my love for crochet, and why I wanted to share with you guys more about this unique form of art.

So, what is crochet? Crochet is a needlework process that uses a hooked needle to create larger pieces by interlacing stitches in the forms of loops. While this may sound similar to knitting, there are a few key differences. While knitting uses needles, crochet uses one hook (the word crochet actually originates from the French word for “hook”). Because of this, crochet is actually more intricate than knitting and allows the artist to design more complicated and delicate items, with a larger range of stitches. This is also why machines cannot replicate crochet, and the process has to be done by hand. Conversely, you would be hard pressed to find something that can’t be crocheted. From larger projects like blankets, scarves, pants, or jackets, to smaller items like hats, socks, stuffed animals, and bikinis you can use crochet to create virtually anything you can think of.

The history of knitted textiles dates back to BC, however it's unclear when and where crochet truly began to surface. Other techniques including loops like nålebinding were popular before the documented rise of crochet and knitting, and probably led to the development of these now popular techniques. Crochet itself was first introduced on record in the 19th century by European immigrants coming to the US. Crochet has also led to more popular nuanced styles of embroidery and knitting.

Whether you want to take part in purchasing crocheted items, or learn to make things yourself, there are so many benefits to the art of crochet. If you have followed fashion news at all in the last decade, you have probably noticed a strong movement towards supporting brands that produce their clothing ethically and sustainably. The industry as a whole is muddled with fast fashion, waste generation, and poor labor conditions, leaving consumers often left feeling guilty with purchases, or having to pay higher prices to know the clothes were made ethically. However, supporting crochet businesses or learning to create your own clothing is an excellent way to do your part when it comes to buying clothes the right way.

As I mentioned earlier, crocheting for me started last Spring when I broke both of my feet, and needed an everyday escape. The process of making clothes became a source of therapy for me, and I completely fell in love with the process and look of the finished items. After a long recovery period and summer, I built up a small inventory of crocheted clothes and accessories that I wanted to sell. This is what led me to start my super small business Anna Groff Creations, where I am sharing and giving people the chance to buy or simply take inspiration from the little crafts that get me up in the morning. I encourage you to check out fun knits or crocheted pieces for this fall, because while they are an ethical choice, they are also absolutely adorable.