Color Me, Part 2!
Color Me Mosaic, Part 2!
An easy way to learn crochet colorwork
Last week, we talked about mosaic knitting, an easy way to make fascinating geometric designs using striping and slipping stitches. This week, we’re talking about mosaic crochet, including similar techniques for stripe-based colorwork. There are two types of mosaic crochet: overlay and inset. Overlay mosaic crochet uses one color per row and you don’t turn your work; instead, you cut the yarn at the end of each row. This technique uses single crochet (sc) in the back loop and double crochet (dc) in the front loop. Inset mosaic crochet is slightly different; this method has you crocheting across the right side (rs) and turning to work the wrong side (ws) in the same color. You then work the next two rows in the second color. Because you change colors at the beginning of each rs row, you can carry the colors up the side and don’t need to weave in the ends on each row.
Crochet mosaic patterns are usually written in chart form. If you’ve never used charts, this is a good introduction. With charted patterns, you can see exactly what you’re making, as in the chart (right) for the Wanderers Mosaic Crochet Blanket Pattern by HanJan Crochet (pdf available for about $6.60 on Rav or free written version on her blog). However, if you don’t like charts, some designers also provide written instructions, too.
Want more information? Sixel Design has a great photo/written tutorial on overlay mosaic and Ashlee Brotzell Designs has several written and video tutorials on overlay mosaic crochet. Her patterns include the Winter Trees Hooded Cowl (about $3.85 on Rav/free written version on her blog).
Upcoming Classes
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Space is limited & sign-ups close a week before class begins, so sign up now! Class fees due at time of registration. You can find all available classes on our Calendar.
Come knit with Wendy! This is for knitters of any skill level with any kind of project! Learn with others in a friendly, supportive environment! Each class is one 2-hour session.
Moses opens the gates for you to the exciting world of Amigurumi - You'll make your own stuffed penguin friend to keep or give away! Class is two 2-hour sessions.
Saturday, July 6 & 13 at 1 pm - 4 seats available
Bring your needlepoint or cross stitch projects for support, problem-solving, and camaraderie! Each class is one 2-hour session.
Sunday, July 7, 3pm - no seats available (See class description for more dates.)
Learn the basics, including about yarn & knitting needle sizes, how to cast on, knit, purl, & bind off. When you've mastered these stitches, you'll be ready to start your first project. Class is two 2-hour sessions.
Learn the tricks to making your own stunning version of the Papillon! Suzy will guide you through starting your Papillon and the steps to mastering short rows, stitch marker placement, and striping. After the two sessions, most students will finish on their own; students who need additional guidance can join Suzy's one-session workshops. Class is two 2-hour sessions.
Thursday, July 11 & 25, 12pm - 4 seats available
Come pick Moses' brain in this workshop-style class. Get some helpful tips to make your hook happy and your project beautiful! Each class is one 2-hour session.
Saturday, July 27, 1 pm - 4 seats available
Retro Velvet is a favorite for a reason! Its soft, crushed velvet texture works up quickly into blankets, sweaters and amigurumi! Yarnivore just received a restock and we doubled the number of colors we carry! We love it in the Velvet V-stitch Baby Blanket (crochet, free at Premier Yarns/in-store), Cocoon Cardigan (crochet, free at Premier Yarns/in-store), Cozy Rib Throw (knit, free at Premier Yarns/in-store), Willow Ribbed Scarf (knit, free at Premier Yarns/in-store), and Velvet Pumpkins (knit, free at Premier Yarns/in-store).
Retro Velvet is a bulky (#5), 100% Polyester yarn. It has 306 yards in a 280g ball. Premier recommends US 10.5 needles or US K hook (both are 6.5mm), but we recommend you check your gauge. Machine wash warm, dry flat.
11-7 Wednesday-Friday
11-5 Saturday & 12-5 Sunday
Zorn Junction Trunk Show, Saturday July 13, 11a-4p. This south Texas dyer specializes in boutique batches of unique colors!
Private Lessons
Learn 1x1 or in small groups with your choice of project or technique! One-on-one (one student, one teacher) Personal lessons are $25/hour & group private lessons are $15/person per hour. Visit us in-store or call 210-979-8255 to schedule.
If you search the interwebs for mosaic crochet, you'll see a variety of terms. Ashley Brotzell's blog does a good job of explaining her use of the more common terms. However, if you come across a designer using different terms (e.g., Sixel Designs uses overlay & interlocking instead of overlay & inset), they should explain their technique well enough that the difference shouldn't matter.
Do you have a tip idea? We're happy to share it, just reply to this newsletter!
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If you have a question for one of our teachers, you can email us at yarnivoresa@gmail.com.