Posts Tagged ‘techniques’

Chain stitch

Wednesday, September 29th, 2010

I’m not sure why, but I’ve been thinking about the chain stitch my Grandmother had me work on when I was first learning how to crochet. I had to crochet a chain at least a yard long to get the hang of the proper tension and consistency of the loops before she would even consider teaching me more.

Ask Aunt Esther

This video is pretty close to how I learned. Well, except for the dog, carpet and couch. (The kids playing in the background make me laugh.) I do like listening to her voice, though. Nice and calm, like nothing could ever get her riled.

I found her video on YouTube. Aunt Esther also has a blog and additional videos once you get the chain stitch down. It looks as though it has been a year since she has updated her blog, but I recommend you watch her videos for an easier way to learn than from a book.

The Textile Arts by Verla Birrell

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

Textile Arts Textile Arts by Verla Birrellby Verla Birrell. I still have this textbook from the Chico State University student bookstore. Not a book to be read from cover to cover, it is more of a reference book. The copyright date is 1959. A quote on the back cover states “This book is virtually the most complete guide to textile history and techniques available.” (If anyone has a newer textile art recommendation for me, please comment.)

What I love about this book is the vast amount of information contained in one volume. Each of these subjects are written about in more detail in other books, but in these 500 pages of information you are allowed to explore batik, lace, cord-making, weaving, embroidery, and more. If you find this in the used section of your bookstore, grab it. I would never give mine away.