I got the idea for this tutorial because I decided to participate in a “Monster Swap” with my local stitching group. I used a really cute pattern that called for “safety eyes.” To be honest, I’ve never used safety eyes, I didn’t know where to buy them, and frankly, I didn’t have time to buy them either.

This is a picture of all of our amigurumi creations together!

Today we continue our series of yarn chats with an elegant but hardworking powerhouse yarn, Merino wool. Our previous chats include Focus on Fiber: Acrylic Yarn, What’s in Your Stash?, and Yarn Obsession.

Known for its soft durability, Merino wool is a favorite among crocheters. It is quite popular among yarn crafters (and yarn hoarders 😉 ) in general, with over 1.6 million skeins stashed on Ravelry! Merino wool gets its name from the adorable Merino sheep. Originally a Spanish breed, the Merino sheep can now be found all over the world, including South America, Australia, North America, and Africa.
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As a follow up to my two previous tutorials, How to Double Crochet Between Stitches, and How to Begin and End Rows while Double Crocheting between Stitches, this week we’ll focus upon how to crochet a flat circle while crocheting between stitches. For the purpose of practicing this skill, we’ll make a circular swatch in this tutorial. Yarn and hook size don’t matter for this practice swatch.
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Yes, you heard correctly, my friends. In addition to being National Craft Month, and “coming in like a lion but going out like a lamb,” the third month of the year is annually dedicated to our favorite craft, crochet. In honor of this, I encourage you to share Crochet Spot with someone who might be interested. Tell your crafting friends to check us out and join the fun! And since it’s also National Caffeine Awareness Month, why not work on your crochet together at a local cafe? (Bring one of these to help reduce waste.) Crochet and caffeine go great together, but herbal tea works just as well! (I should know!)

Here is a list of other holidays and observances happening this month, along with suggestions on how to celebrate!
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I was very pleased with the response to my last tutorial, How to Double Crochet Between Stitches. Many people inquired about how to begin and end rows, so this week’s tutorial will focus upon just that. For the purpose of practicing this skill, we’ll make a small swatch in this tutorial. Yarn and hook size don’t matter for this practice swatch.
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How many of you started to crochet when you knew a little one was on the way? I have definitely crocheted quite a few things for my little loved ones-both relatives and the children of friends. It seems like the perfect time for the hooks to come out is when we know someone has a “bun in the oven!” There are many advantages to crocheting for little ones. Additionally, baby projects may be perfect for beginners! Here are a few reasons I love crocheting for children.
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Crocheting between stitches is an alternative to crocheting through both loops, back loop, or front loop. The resulting stitch is effectively a little shorter than a normal double crochet, and the stitch pattern becomes more open.

To double crochet between stitches, the crochet hook will be inserted in the space between the stitches, as indicated in the picture below.

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Since I started teaching crafts and getting involved in the online community, I’ve noticed that some crafters are very hesitant to modify crochet patterns. There could be several reasons for this point of view. Perhaps this crocheter is afraid of doing it “wrong” or s/he is unsure of how the finished product’s look will change in a different color or yarn.

Some crocheters will relate to this and others will not. Personally, I’ve always enjoyed the idea that crochet allows me to make design choices, even if they are as simple as choosing colors. I’d even go a bit further to say that I try not to do my projects so they look just like the picture. However, I’ve heard a lot of stories about people who do not craft that way, and choose to follow the pattern to the letter, including yarn colors and brands.
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I am always astounded by the versatility of our craft. While crochet is perfect as a solo activity, maybe relaxing on the porch with some tea in the evening, it makes a fine group activity as well. Stitching while chatting over coffee with friends adds an entirely new dimension to the crafting experience.

I have to admit, my love of fiber crafting was very clearly driven by connecting to a craft community. At first this community was online, through podcasts and my personal blog. I later joined Ravelry and started a crafting group in Mexico City. It took me a long time and a lot of perseverance, but I finally attracted a core group of similar yarn lovers and we shared tips, patterns, encouragement, and most of all, friendship. We eventually became the first Mexican chapter of the Crochet Guild of America, Ganchitos Mexico City. The Ganchitos are still going strong although I’ve changed locales.
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I thought we’d take a peek into the world of crocheted artworks every now and then. This week we’ll talk about Japanese and Canadian artist Toshiko Horiuchi MacAdam.

When appreciating the massive artworks by MacAdam, you don’t have to keep your hands off the art. Many of her works are literally colorful playgrounds meant for children to enjoy, but they didn’t start out that way. The idea was born when children climbed onto a gallery installation resembling a hammock. MacAdam observed as her artwork as it changed shape and was inspired.
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