Crochet - Advanced Honor

Arts & Crafts

Requirements

1. Have the Crochet Honor.

   Answer: Know the materials (threads, hooks in different sizes), basic stitches (chain, single crochet, double crochet, half double crochet), make a simple piece (table runner, dish towel), read a basic diagram, make increases and decreases, count stitches correctly and master the simple fancy stitch and the finishing off. — The basic Crochet Honor qualifies one for the advanced one. Fundamental stitches: chain (ch), single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), half double crochet (hdc), treble crochet. Materials: various threads (Cléa, Anne, Camila), hooks 1.0-3.0mm. The diagram follows the symbols of the international convention. The SDA uses this honor to teach patience, creativity and perseverance to the Pathfinders.

2. Know how to interpret a chart that contains at least 3 different stitches.

   Answer: Interpreting a crochet chart (diagram) means understanding the symbols and the sequence: 1) Each symbol represents a stitch (e.g.: single crochet, double crochet, chain, fan, picot) — always consult the chart's legend. 2) Read from bottom to top; on odd rows generally from right to left and on even rows in the opposite direction (in circular work, from the center outward). 3) Identify the base row (initial chains). 4) Count the stitches of each row and recognize the repeats (rapport) marked on the chart. With at least 3 different stitches, distinguish each symbol, its height and where it is inserted to reproduce the design faithfully. — The standard symbology of crochet charts is regulated by the Craft Yarn Council and has been used internationally since the 1990s, facilitating the exchange of patterns between different languages.

3. Know how to attach a crochet edging to a towel.

   Answer: Mark the edge of the towel at equidistant points. Insert the hook into the edging, make a chain to fasten it, then continue with single crochet along the edge, sewing the edging through small invisible stitches with fine thread. Reinforce the beginning and end with discreet knots. — The edging can be made separately or directly on the towel. Use crochet thread compatible with the color of the towel (mercerized no. 5 or no. 8). Prefer a hook of 1.5-2.0mm. Mark with pins every 1 cm for uniformity. Start from the end, fastening with a fine whipstitch. The finish depends on firm and symmetrical stitches. Wash gently once finished.

4. Make a round table doily out of thread.

   Answer: Start with a magic ring or a closed chain, make double crochet in the center. Increase progressively in each round to maintain the flat circular shape, generally adding 12 stitches per round. Follow the chart, maintain even tension. Finish with a decorative edging (fans, picots) and finish off by blocking. — Typical size: 30-50 cm. Mercerized thread no. 8 or no. 10, hook 1.5-2.0mm. Increases follow a geometric rule: for a flat circle, +12 stitches per round in double crochet. Blocking: damp on a flat surface with pins to fix the shape. Classic patterns include flowers or suns. The SDA values this honor for the development of patience and mathematical precision.

5. Make a more complex lace piece to cover a cushion, or a similar object.

   Answer: Choose a chart with elaborate motifs (flowers, stars, shells). Use fine mercerized thread and a compatible hook (1.0-1.5mm). Make modules that join together (picot stitches, fans, sprigs). Combine double crochet, single crochet, chains and treble crochet. Join the parts with an invisible seam and attach them to the cushion with ribbon or a seam on the edge. — Complex lacework requires mastery of the symbolic chart (chain=○, dc=T, varying fans). Classic patterns: pinecone, pineapple, 3D flowers. The use of chains to fill the weave and treble crochet for volume. Blocking is essential: damp with pins to define the shapes. Attachment to the cushion can be with a discreet whipstitch or a decorative cord on the edge. The finished piece enhances decoration and refined technique.

6. Make a crochet vest or a complete set for a baby.

   Answer: Use mercerized thread or soft hypoallergenic yarn (Cisne, Bella), hook 2.0-3.0mm. Follow a pattern with measurements (newborn, 3, 6 months). Make the front, back and sleeves separately and join them. For a baby, give preference to closed stitches without holes, no small buttons, with soft colors and a delicate finish. — For an adult vest, use thicker thread (Cisne number 8 or 10). For a baby, use Bella, Bambini or hypoallergenic threads. Raglan sleeves make sewing easier. Large buttons or ties avoid choking risks. A finish with an edging and fine embroidery enriches it. Wash before use to remove chemical residues.

7. Make a crochet shawl or a runner.

   Answer: For a shawl, choose a triangular or rectangular chart, soft thread (wool or a blend), hook 3.5-5.0mm. Start from the center or the end, with progressive increases. For a runner, make long rectangular modules (1.5-2.5m), with repeated motifs (flowers, waves). A finish with fringes or an edging enhances the piece and gives it charm. — Triangular shawl: start with 3 chains, increase at the two ends. Runner: 50-80 cm wide, a repeated pattern. Threads: wool for the shawl (Cisne dália, Mollet); cotton for the runner (Camila, Anne). A proportional hook. A finish with fringes on the shawl or an edging on the runner. Blocking with steam defines the shape. Classic pieces require patience and regularity.

8. Make a crochet piece of your choice using at least 3 colors.

   Answer: Plan the color combination (analogous, complementary or triadic). Use threads of the same type and thickness for uniformity. Change color at the end of the previous row (pull the last stitch with the new color). Hide cut threads on the back. Maintain constant tension and follow a chart or colored diagram. — Harmonious combinations: analogous (close on the color wheel), complementary (opposite), triadic (3 equally spaced). Changing color at the end of the stitch avoids a 'jump'. Even borders: keep a precise count. Loose threads: whipstitch on the inside or sew afterward. Threads: the same batch to avoid tonal variation. Washing with a neutral soap preserves the colors.