- 1). Choose a crochet pattern for your skill level. Read through the instructions twice to make sure you understand them. Highlight or circle the number of stitches and measurements for the pattern size you plan to make. Try out any new pattern stitches to ensure that you can do them correctly.
- 2). Select yarn that is suitable for the type of sweater you wish to make in colors that will flatter the woman for whom it is being made. Cotton yarns work well for spring and summer sweaters, as well as for wash and wear. Wool yarn requires dry-cleaning, retains heat and is ideal for cooler temperatures.
- 3). Use a crochet hook that fits the yarn. Thick yarn requires a large crochet hook and works up fast. The finer the yarn, the smaller the hook should be for ease in making the stitches.
- 4). Check the gauge by making a four-inch test swatch. Compare the test swatch to the pattern measurements and adjust as needed, changing to a larger or smaller crochet hook to achieve the required gauge. A smaller hook will increase the number of stitches per inch; a larger hook will reduce the number of stitches per inch. Check the gauge several times as you work the pattern.
- 5). Make chain stitches according to pattern instructions to form the first row. Work these stitches loosely so that the hook can enter each chain easily without pulling previous chain stitches into the new stitch. Check that the chain stitches are all the same size. Start over if they are uneven.
- 6). Crochet the back, left and right front pieces and sleeves respectively unless otherwise indicated by the pattern.
- 7). Shape the sweater by increasing and decreasing stitches as indicated in the pattern. Increases are made by working multiple stitches inside one crochet stitch. Decreases are made by working consecutive stitches together to form a single stitch. Pay careful attention when shaping necklines or cardigan fronts as these areas are especially visible once the sweater is finished.
- 8). Finish off the last crochet stitch properly to prevent the sweater from unraveling. After making the last stitch, pull the yarn through the final loop and cut leaving a five-inch tail.
- 9). Block the sweater pieces to even out slight stitch irregularities and adjust to final measurements. Lay the sweater pieces wrong side up on a padded surface. Measure and stretch each piece as you pin the corners and along each side, armhole and shoulder edge. Do not stretch or pin any ribbing. Apply steam by holding the iron just above each sweater piece until damp. Leave pinned until thoroughly dry.
- 10
Join sides, shoulders and sleeves with a small seam allowance, changing colors as appropriate. Place all yarn ends on the wrong side of the sweater. Press lightly with the tip of the iron to open seams. - 11
Crochet decorative edging around open areas for a harmonious appearance, unless otherwise indicated by the pattern. Attach buttons and other embellishments.
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