Making a crochet top
Back in the day, I had a 40×40 list; a list of 40 things to do before I was 40.
Well, I turned 40 and upgraded the list.
One of the things on that new list was?
Finish the old list!
One of the things on that list? …
Crochet a top.
A crochet round-up
I wrote an article on this topic back in 2020, bemoaning my failure to complete this task. Although I had started a cardigan, it soon became a quilt. Then I started a vest in cotton, but that was never finished. I have yet to make a top. This task has been a ‘to-do’ for years now and I really want to tick it off.
This is why I have started making some chain mail armour for Ethan to wear to ‘Road to Ruin’ next July.
(Letting that bizarre sentence sink in for a bit…)
Basically, Ethan and I are off to a post-apocalyptic camp next July, and I am going to make some costumes. One of those will be a crochet top that will, hopefully, look like a suit of armour.
Okay, that’s a bit random, so let me get you up to ‘crochet’ speed with some history and then dip back into my ideas for completing this task.
The Origins of Crochet
Crochet is a crafting technique that has been around for centuries,. It has a rich history that spans many cultures and continents. In recent years, crochet has experienced an almost surprising resurgence in popularity, with new generations of crafters rediscovering it.
The exact origins of crochet are somewhat mysterious, as there are no surviving examples of crocheted items from before the 1800s. However, it is generally believed that the technique was developed in Europe during the 16th century, with the word “crochet” coming from the French word for hook.
Early crocheted items were often made using fine thread, and the technique was mainly used to create delicate lace trims and edgings for clothing and household linens. Crochet was also popular for making doilies, table runners, and other decorative items.
Over time, crochet spread to other parts of the world, with different cultures developing their own unique variations on the technique. In Ireland, for example, crochet was used to create intricate lace motifs for the famous Irish crochet lace.
The Popularity of Crochet Grows
Throughout the 20th century, crochet continued to grow in popularity, with new generations of crafters embracing the technique and developing new patterns and styles. In the 1960s and 70s, crochet became particularly trendy, with bold, colourful designs that reflected the era’s love of all things psychedelic and bohemian.
In recent years, crochet has seen a resurgence in popularity, with more and more people discovering the joys of this timeless craft. Part of the appeal of crochet is its versatility – it can be used to create everything from cosy blankets and scarves to intricate lace doilies and clothing.
Another factor is the rise of crochet in social media and online communities. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have allowed crafters to share their work and connect with other like-minded individuals, inspiring a new wave of creativity and innovation in the world of crochet.
The Future of Crochet?
As crochet continues to gain popularity, it is likely that we will see new and innovative uses of the technique in the years to come. With advances in technology and materials, the possibilities for crochet are endless – from creating intricate 3D structures to incorporating electronic elements like LEDs and sensors.
At the same time, there is something timeless and enduring about crochet that makes it a perennial favourite among crafters of all ages and backgrounds. It offers endless possibilities for creativity and expression.
And one of those possibilities is… making s suit of armour
The Plan
With several months left until the end of the year, I have plenty of time to complete this task. What I have tried to do is break it down into monthly deadlines. I’ve completed the body and started the arms, so well on the way.
What I have done is pencilled in ‘crochet time’ for a few evenings a month, so I can’t fall back on the ‘I haven’t got time’ excuse. All I need to do then is stick to the times I have booked and get on with the work.
If it all goes to plan, I will be ticking this one off by the end of the year.
And, potentially creating the next new trend for 2024 post-apocalyptic festival events.