The word "crochet" comes from the French word for "hook." Little is known about crocheting's early history. There are multiple stories dealing with where and when crocheting started, but no evidence to prove any of the stories. There is no surviving evidence in Europe of crocheting prior to 1800. During the Renaissance a form of crochet called Irish crochet was used to imitate lace; it cost less than bobbin lace and was easier to learn. It was mainly purchased by the middle class who could not afford real lace. Some of the stigma associated with "Irish crochet" as a cheap copy was mitigated by Queen Victoria who not only purchased Irish crochet, but also learned how to crochet.
Crocheting uses a rod with a hook on one end to form interlocking loops using thread, yarn, or other cord-like material. There is also "finger crocheting" which uses fingers instead of a hook and was probably used in the earliest versions of crocheting. Crocheting can range from tiny hooks using the equivalent of sewing thread to large hooks using multiple strands of regular or bulky yarn or even rope. Crocheting can be used to make clothes, household items (such as afghans, doilies, etc.), lace, toys or even sculpture.
Crocheting has undergone a revival in the past few years. New, updated patterns, large hooks as well as new, bulky or novelty yarns have found a niche in this modern era of "instant gratification."
Web Sites
Catalog
Search the library's catalog for crocheting.
Databases
Enter the word crocheting in these databases: