Feature
| TAPESTRY CROCHET
Crafters around the world
use tapestry crochet to
make unique items with
traditional designs
you carry, the fabric may be stiff or supple, taking
any fl at or three-dimensional form.
Crochet around the world
Tapestry crochet is a popular technique around
“
The shape of the hat, the type and
colour of yarn, and the complexity of the
design communicates different messages
the world, from Africa to South America, as well
as Europe. Slight variations on the craft are used
everywhere, but all create unique, handmade items exposed front loop forms a decorative horizontal line ”
with interesting colour combinations and designs that across the front of the fabric.
refl ect the crafter’s cultural heritage. There are many other names for tapestry crochet
In Africa, tapestry hats are popular. The shape (like colourwork, hard crochet, intarsia, etc), but just
of the hat, the type and colour of yarn, and the as tapestry weaving includes a number of variations,
complexity of the design communicates a number so does tapestry crochet. This technique is not
of different messages. Sometimes a crocheted hat found everywhere, although it is becoming more
denotes a certain social position, other times it marks widespread. Travellers, publications, videos and
ethnic or religious affi liation, and occasionally a hat the internet are not only helping to spread the word
In Peru, natural alpaca
is simply a fashion statement. about this fabulous art, but they are also increasing
yarn is used to create
Maya men have been tapestry crocheting the market for the beautiful products.
bags, hats and more.
rectangular shoulder bags with distinctive regional To fi nd out more about tapestry crochet, please
designs and colour schemes for over 100 years in visit www.tapestrycrochet.com
Guatemala. Today, both women and men increase
their family income by tapestry crocheting bags,
hats, and hackey sacks for export and tourists. They
insert the hook under both loops and carry the extra
colours in the single crochet stitches, producing a
durable fabric with double-sided motifs – perfect for
unlined bags.
In Peru, naturally coloured white, black and
brown alpaca yarn is used quite effectively to create
beautiful tapestry crocheted bags and hats. Some are
crocheted into the back loop, some under both loops,
but all of them carry the extra yarn inside the single
crochet stitches.
While inserting the hook into the back loop of
the single crochet stitch is popular in Europe, this
technique is also done elsewhere. This variation
produces a lighter fabric with more drape and the
70 | INSIDE Crochet
IC2.feat.Carol Ventura.FINAL.indd 70 12/5/09 16:59:08
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