Miss Lambert

Crochet,—a species of knitting originally practised by the peasants in Scotland, with a small hooked needle called a shepherd’s hook,—aided by taste and fashion, has, within the last seven years, obtained the preference over all other ornamental works of a similar nature. It derives its present name from the French; the instrument with which it is worked being by them, from its crooked shape, termed “crochet.” This art has attained its highest degree of perfection in England, whence it has been transplanted to France and Germany, and both these countries, although unjustifiably, have claimed the invention. Crochet has been applied, with considerable success, to the production of numerous useful and decorative articles, such as shawls, table-covers, couvre-pieds, pillows, ottomans, chairs, rugs, slippers, bags, cabats, purses, caps, waistcoats, and the like. Silk, wool, cotton, chenille, and gold, are all suitable materials for this description of work, but the purpose for which it is intended must necessarily determine their choice.

Crochet has the recommendation of being a less intricate method of working than knitting, and therefore claims a more extensive cultivation than perhaps it has hitherto met with. It is particularly adapted for making articles for charitable purposes; hence, the instruction of children in blind schools, in this easy and useful art, is well worthy the attention of philanthropists. Waistcoats, shawls, knee-caps, sleeves, comforters, mittens, gloves, etc., may be made, without difficulty, in crochet. It has not, however, been deemed necessary in the following pages to give directions for any of these simple articles, as, when the crochet stitch is acquired, the modes of working such, and a variety of others, in daily use, will readily present themselves. As an example of the double appropriation, which almost all the following directions admit of, we may instance the bottom of a bag;—this, if commenced with a chain of about fifty stitches (not joining the ends), and worked in coarse wool, with a large needle, in rows backwards and forwards, gradually increasing with a seam stitch, will form a warm and comfortable round cape. A paper pattern, the size of any desired object, can easily be cut,—and the making a stitch at the commencement, or the decreasing in the middle, or the end of a row, and vice versÂ, render this work subservient to almost any form.

For large pieces of work, when wool is employed, that kind denominated fleecy, either English or German, is generally to be preferred. This material, of a six-thread size, with an ivory needle, offers the easiest kind of work with which we are acquainted. It may be readily learned, and has, therefore, been much practised, both by invalids, and by persons whose sight either needs relief, or has become impaired. All striped patterns, if desired, may be worked in narrow breadths, and joined in the dividing lines; so that a table cover may be made in four or six lengths, and afterwards sewn together with wool, without the least detriment to its appearance. Crochet may be executed with coarse and fine chenille, for pillows, bags, caps, and waistcoats; with crochet silk, for caps, slippers, and bags; with coarse netting silk, it forms strong purses, bags, and slippers; and the most delicate work may be done with the finer silks. Gold and silver cord, and passing, may be intermixed with the chenilles and silks, or employed separately; and gold and steel beads, first strung on the silk, may be worked in various patterns, so as to produce the most rich and beautiful effect.

Crochet may be divided into plain single crochet, plain double crochet, plain stitch open crochet, and open crochet with one, two, three, or more stitches. These varieties will be described, as they occur, in the following directions for working.

The mode of working the crochet stitch, although in itself most simple, is difficult to describe in writing; but, with the aid of the annexed engraving, which shows the position of the hands, and the manner in which the needle and the work should be held, we will endeavour to explain the elementary process.

Illustration of hands crocheting

Having wound a skein of wool, make a loop at one end; through this loop draw another loop, through this second loop another, and so on, moderately tightening each, as it is drawn through, until a chain of sufficient length be made to serve as the foundation for the article intended to be worked. Pass the needle through the last loop of this foundation, and catching the wool, draw it through, repeating the same at every successive loop; then, return along this row, and, in a similar manner, form a second. A repetition of this process, alternately backwards and forwards, from right to left, and from left to right, will give the first and easiest lesson. The work will be the same on both sides, producing, by turns, one raised and one sunken row.

Before proceeding further, however, it will, be necessary, for the better understanding of the directions hereafter offered, to give an

Explanation of the Terms used in Crochet.

Illustration of a crochet needle

THE CROCHET NEEDLE.

A chain,—the foundation, formed by a succession of loops drawn one through the other.

Plain single crochet,—where one loop only is made on the needle, and drawn through each stitch. It is lighter and thinner than double crochet.

Plain double crochet,—where two loops are kept on the needle, and the wool drawn through both before the stitch is finished. This is the crochet stitch generally practised, and that used for working table-covers, etc.

Double stitch crochet,—in this, both meshes of the chain are taken. It is principally employed for the soles of shoes, and where extra thickness is required, but it is not suitable for working patterns.

Plain stitch elastic crochet,—is worked alternately in rows backwards and forwards, from right to left and from left to right, always taking the under mesh of the chain.

PLAIN STITCH OPEN CROCHET.

No. 1.

Plain stitch open crochet,—is composed of chains, of five stitches each in length, forming loops, each fifth stitch being crocheted to the centre stitch of the corresponding loop in the preceding row, as shown in the engraving. It is mostly used for purses.

OPEN CROCHET.

No. 2.

Open crochet—is worked (as nearly as can be described) as follows:—make a chain of the length required; work one plain stitch at the beginning. Bring the silk round the needle, and pass the needle through the first loop of the chain; through this bring the silk, which makes three stitches on the needle; draw the silk through the first two stitches, which leaves two on the needle; then draw the silk through these two, which leaves one on the needle; through this one, make one plain stitch. Put the silk over the needle, and bring it through the third loop of the chain; the three stitches, as before, will now be found on the needle; draw the silk through the first two, which leaves two on the needle; draw the silk through these two, which finishes the stitch, and leaves one upon the needle as before. The plain stitch that is then made between the two double stitches, allows for the stitch which was passed in the chain, and leaves an open space. It is suitable for purses, bags, etc.

DOUBLE OPEN CROCHET.

No. 3.

Double open crochet,—similar to the open crochet stitch, but varied by making the two long stitches together; this is done by omitting the single stitch, and passing the needle through the next loop of the chain, instead of missing one stitch; thus producing two stitches together, and then an open space. It is suitable for bags, purses, &c.

TREBLE OPEN CROCHET.

No. 4.

Treble open crochet,—also similar to the preceding, but varied by making three stitches successively, without making any plain stitch, which produces alternate squares of open space and stitches. Beads may be introduced on it with very good effect in the following manner:—let the beads be threaded on the silk, and pass one on the middle stitch of the three double stitches, giving a bead in the centre of each square. This stitch makes a very pretty purse.

To make a stitch,—at the commencement and end of a row, is to make one stitch of a chain before the first stitch, and after the last, which in the next row are to be crocheted.

A dividing, or seam stitch,—called also a raised stitch, is made by putting the needle through both meshes of the chain, and working two stitches in the same hole. These stitches must always be made exactly over each other. In crocheting circles they form a kind of star pattern, and serve the purpose of increasing stitches. They should not be employed when working with chenille.

To increase a stitch,—to make two stitches in the same loop.

To decrease,—to take two stitches together, or to miss one stitch. Decreasing is always done in the same ratio as increasing.

True or perfect stitch,—when working in different colours, the keeping the stitches directly over each other, without any appearance of the half-stitch. This requires care, but it greatly adds to the beauty of the work, and makes the pattern more distinct.

To fasten off,—to draw the wool through the last stitch.

To fasten on,—lay the ends of the wool contrariwise, and crochet a few stitches with both, or work in the second wool, and run the end in with a needle at the back of the work.

To run the ends,—to pass them down a few stitches with a needle. This is the neatest and strongest plan; but they may be tied and cut off.

A dividing line,—generally formed of two stitches alternately up and down, into the ground of the stripes on either side.

N. B. The engravings of the patterns are placed in the book as they are intended to be worked; that is, by commencing at the lower part, on the right hand side.

Hints on Crochet.

A steel crochet needle is generally advisable;—with expert workers, it makes the most even stitches, but it is easier to work with an ivory needle.

The second-sized netting silk is prettiest for purses.

The coarsest, or crochet silk, is best adapted for bags, with steel or gold beads.

Where many colours are required in a pattern, and the same do not very frequently occur, it is advisable to introduce them in short lengths, instead of carrying on each thread. This should always be attended to when working with chenille.

When beads are used, they should be strung on the silk with a needle.

When beads are introduced, the wrong side of the work becomes the right. It is possible to crochet with the beads on the right side, but they never lay so firmly, nor indeed is it the proper way of using them.

The average number of stitches for the length of a purse, in fine silk, is one hundred and sixty. In coarse silk,—one hundred and ten.

From ninety to one hundred stitches form the circle of a purse in fine silk.

One hundred and thirty stitches may be taken for the round of a bag, in crochet silk.

A table-cover, in six-thread fleecy, is generally computed at about four hundred stitches in length.

Borders of flowers, and very intricate patterns, may be worked in crochet, but it would be impossible to convey a complete idea of these even to the most experienced worker, without greatly exceeding the limits of the present work. The expert needle-woman will soon perceive the best method of copying any pattern of this description she may desire.

The terms chinÉ and ombrÉ, are frequently applied to the materials employed in crochet and knitting. Wool and silk are chinÉ, when two, three, or more different colours are introduced, at intervals, on one thread, in the process of dying;—they are ombrÉ, when one colour only is similarly employed, but which gradually runs from the lightest to the darkest shade.

N. B. In the directions for working the different patterns in crochet, it must be borne in mind, that unless any other stitch be mentioned, the plain, or double crochet stitch, is always to be employed.

A Sofa Pillow, or Table Cover.

This is merely given as the first and easiest pattern in crochet, for the purpose of teaching the stitch.

A good-sized ivory or steel crochet needle, with six-thread fleecy, will be required. Instead of working the rows backwards and forwards, as before described, begin each row separately at the same end. When the last stitch of each row is finished, draw the wool through, and cut it off, leaving an end of two or three inches. It is impossible to determine the exact number of stitches,—that must depend on the article, and its required size; but with this description of wool, half a yard in length will generally be found to number about sixty-five stitches, and a calculation may accordingly be made.

First stripe—one row black; one row white; one row black.

Second stripe—one row dark scarlet; one bright scarlet; one light scarlet;—reverse the same, to form a shaded stripe.

Third stripe—the same as the first.

Fourth stripe—the same as the second, but in shades of blue.

These stripes are to be repeated alternately.

Another very easy Pattern.

No. 5.

The ground of this pattern is plain. The cheques are composed of chinÉ wool, the first row differing in colour from that of the second. The dividing line is in plain colours.

This pattern may be worked in stripes of different colours, varying the colour of the cheques agreeably to that of the ground. It is adapted for a pillow, or a variety of other articles, according to the material employed.

A Sofa Pillow in Stripes.

No. 6.

Zephyr, or double German wool.

This pattern may be worked according to the two following methods. The first is the easiest, as one thread of wool only is required to be carried on to form the pattern.

Commence with a chain and one row of black. Second row—scarlet. Third row—straw colour.

Crochet a stripe, consisting of seven rows of imperial blue, with the pattern in chinÉ wool—black, white, and scarlet.

Repeat the three plain rows, as before, reversed,—straw colour, scarlet, and black.

Crochet another stripe with drab, with the pattern in chinÉ wool—blue, black, and white.

Commence again as at first.

The second method of working this pattern is as follows,—having the plain rows, and the ground of the two stripes as before. Crochet the figure of the blue stripe,—

First row—three stitches black.

Second row—three stitches claret; two black.

Third row—one stitch dark claret; one gold colour; two dark scarlet; one black.

Fourth row—one stitch scarlet; two gold colour; two scarlet.

Fifth row—three stitches scarlet.

Crochet the figure on the drab stripe,—

First row—three stitches claret.

Second row—three stitches dark green; two claret.

Third row—one stitch middle green; one white; two middle green; one claret.

Fourth row—one stitch light green; two white; two light green.

Fifth row—three stitches light green.

The above pattern may be worked for a bag, with the same colours, using silk instead of wool, and commencing with a chain of about one hundred and thirty stitches, with No. 2 Crochet Silk. It is a very easy bag to work, and, if wished to be more elegant, gold may be introduced. This pattern, also, with the same sized silk, will make a very pretty crochet slipper.

A very Handsome and Easy Pattern.

Commence with a chain and one row of amber.

Second row—two stitches of amber, and two of black,—alternately.

No. 7.

Then crochet one plain row of black, which forms the ground of the first stripe. The pine pattern on this stripe occupies five rows in height; the first row—blue; the second—scarlet; the third—green; the fourth—yellow; the fifth—white. One plain row of black; and one row—two stitches of black, and two of amber,—alternately;—followed by one plain row of amber, complete the first stripe.

The ground of the second stripe is scarlet; the dividing lines,—both at top and bottom,—imperial blue, the inner row of each being composed of two stitches, alternately blue and scarlet. The pattern occupies seven rows in height; the first row—green; the second—black; the third—blue; the fourth—amber; the fifth—green; the sixth—stone colour; the seventh—white.

The third stripe is imperial blue; the dividing lines—amber; the pattern,—first row—black; second—scarlet; third—white; fourth—green; fifth—drab.

The fourth stripe is white; the dividing lines—scarlet; the pattern,—first row—green; second—black; third—blue; fourth—scarlet; fifth—green: sixth—lilac; seventh—light green.

Repeat from the first stripe.

This pattern, worked with six-thread fleecy, will be found very easy and effective for a table cover; using a steel or ivory crochet needle, according to the fancy of the worker.

The same pattern, with the colours as above described for the first and second stripes, with No. 1 Crochet Silk, will make an extremely elegant bag. This should be commenced with a chain of about two hundred and sixteen stitches, united at the two ends, whether for a round, or square bag. Gold thread may be substituted in the dividing lines, working only one plain row, instead of two, as in the engraving. Five of the narrow, and four of the wide stripes, will form a bag of an ordinary size.

This pattern may be worked beautifully with chenille, or with chenille and gold, for a variety of purposes.

Another Sofa Pillow.

No. 8.

This pattern is recommended as being exceedingly easy; and, at the same time very pretty. Six-thread fleecy, with an ivory needle.

First stripe.

• Chain and first row—drab.
• Second row—dark crimson.
• Third row—one stitch rose colour; one drab;—alternately.
• Fourth row—bright pink.
• Fifth row—drab.

Second stripe.

• First row—two stitches white;—two black—alternately.
• Second row—two stitches white; two black;—alternately;—commencing with one stitch only of white.

Third stripe.

• First row—bright blue.
• Second row—dark olive drab.
• Third row—one stitch light olive drab; one bright blue;—alternately.
• Fourth row—yellow.
• Fifth row—blue.

Repeat the second stripe, and commence again from the first.

This pattern may be varied, by working the first and third stripes as above directed, with the black and white stripes in double open crochet. It may also be done in either manner with coarse chenille.

Scroll Border for a Table Cover, etc., with Persian Pattern Stripe.

The scroll pattern of the border of this design is on a black ground. The ground of each stripe of the Persian pattern for the centre may be varied. Six, or eight thread fleecy, with a steel or ivory needle. Commence with:—

No. 9.

Chain and first row—dark red brown.

Second row—scarlet.

Third row—black.

Fourth row—one stitch light green; one black; five red brown; five black; three brown; two black; two green; two black; three brown; five black; five brown; one black; two green.—Repeat to the end of the row.

Fifth row—one stitch middle green; one orange; four black; two orange; three black; one orange; three black; one orange; four green; one orange; three black; one orange; three black; two orange; four black; one orange; two green.—Repeat.

Sixth row—one stitch orange; two black; two orange; two black; two orange; two black; one orange; one scarlet; two orange; one black; one orange; two dark green; one orange; one black; two scarlet; one black; one orange; two black; two orange; two black; two orange; two black; one orange; one green.—Repeat.

Seventh row—one stitch gold colour; one black; two scarlet; one black; one gold colour; one black; three gold colour; one black; one gold colour; one black; two scarlet; one black; one gold colour; two black; one gold colour; one black; two scarlet; one black; one gold colour; one black; three gold colour; one black; one gold colour; one black; two scarlet; one black; one gold colour; one black.—Repeat.

Eighth row—one stitch gold colour; one black; two scarlet; one black; one gold colour; two black; two gold colour; one black; one gold colour; two black; one gold colour; one black; one gold colour; two black; one gold colour; one black; one gold colour; two black; one gold colour; one black; two gold colour; two black; one gold colour; one black; two scarlet; one black; one gold colour; one black.—Repeat.

Ninth row—one stitch dark blue; one yellow; three black; one yellow; two black; two yellow; two black; two yellow; two black; one yellow; two blue; one yellow; two black; two blue; two black; two yellow; two black; one yellow; three black; one yellow; two blue.—Repeat.

Tenth row—one stitch middle blue; one black; three yellow; four black; two yellow; four black; one yellow; four blue; one yellow; four black; two yellow; four black; three yellow; one black; two blue.—Repeat.

Eleventh row—ten stitches black; five white; two black; two light blue; two black; five white; ten black; one blue.—Repeat.

Twelfth row—black.

Thirteenth row—red brown.

Fourteenth row—scarlet. This finishes the border.

Commence the ground of the centre, or second stripe, with one plain row of white; the colours of the Persian pine pattern on which are as follow:—

First row—three stitches dark green; two white; two green.

Second row—two stitches light scarlet; one white; two scarlet.

Third row—two stitches middle green; three dark scarlet; one white; three scarlet; two green.

Fourth row—four stitches light green; two white; one black; two white; four green.

Fifth row—two stitches light green; three dark blue; one white; three blue; two green.

Sixth row—two stitches light blue; one white; two blue.

Seventh row—two stitches light green; two white; three green.

One plain row of white finishes the stripe. The brown and scarlet rows are again to be worked, when the border may be repeated, alternately with the stripes of the Persian pattern; or, the latter alone may be repeated, with the colour of the ground varied,—the colours of the pattern being also changed, to harmonize with it.—The colours, as above given, are for a white ground.

A Persian Pattern Border.

This pattern is adapted for the border of a table-cover, hearth-rug or stair-carpet. It may be worked in four, six, or eight-thread fleecy, with a steel or ivory needle, according to its appropriation. The colours required are three distinct shades of green, two of scarlet, two of blue, two of gold colour, two of lilac, black, white, and geranium: the proper selection of these constitutes much of the beauty of the pattern:—the geranium colours should be very bright. Commence with:—

No. 10.

Chain and first row—black.

Second row—gold colour.

Third row—black.

Fourth row—two stitches black; one light green; one black; one green; two black; three geranium.—Repeat to the end of the row.

Fifth row—two stitches geranium; one white; one dark green; one white; two geranium; three gold colour.—Repeat.

Sixth row—the same as the fourth.

Seventh row—black.

Eighth row—blue.

The above finishes the narrow border. The ground of the centre border is white; having worked two rows of which, commence the pattern with,—

First row—two stitches white; six dark scarlet; two white; three light green; two white; three green; three white; one scarlet; two white; two scarlet; two white; three green; two white; three green; three white; one scarlet; two white; two scarlet; two white; three green; two white; three green.—Repeat to the end of the row.

Second row—one stitch white; two light scarlet; one white; one middle green; four scarlet; two white; three green; one white; two green; two white; four scarlet; one white; three scarlet; two white; three green; one white; two green; two white; four scarlet; one white; three scarlet; two white; three green; one white; two green; one white.—Repeat.

Third row—one stitch white; two dark blue; one white; one dark green; four blue; three white; five green; four white; two blue; one white; three blue; three white; five green; four white; two blue; one white; three blue; three white; five green; one white.—Repeat.

Fourth row—one stitch black; two white; six light blue; ten black; three white; five blue; ten black; three white; five blue; nine black.—Repeat.

Fifth row—one stitch black; eight white.—Repeat.

Sixth row—ten stitches black; three white; five light gold colour; ten black; two white; six gold colour; ten black; three white; five gold colour.—Repeat.

Seventh row—Four stitches white; three dark green; five white; two dark gold colour; one white; three gold colour; four white; three green; three white; two gold colour; one white; one green; four gold colour; four white; three green; five white; two gold colour; one white; three gold colour.—Repeat.

Eighth row—two stitches white; six middle green; two white; four light lilac; one white; three lilac; two white; six green; two white; two lilac; one white; one green; four lilac; two white; six green; two white; four lilac; one white; three lilac.—Repeat.

Ninth row—one stitch white; three light green; three white; two green; three white; one dark lilac; two white; two lilac; two white; three green; three white; two green; two white; six lilac; two white; three green; three white; two green; three white; one lilac; two white; two lilac; one white.—Repeat.

Two rows of white complete the centre border.

Repeat the small border, beginning with the row of blue.

A Sofa Pillow in Plain and Treble Open Crochet.

This pattern may be worked with double German wool.

Commence with a chain of about one hundred and ninety stitches in black. Then,—

With three distinct shades of scarlet, crochet a shaded stripe, consisting of five rows,—beginning with the darkest colour,—the lightest forming the centre.—Repeat the black row.

Work a stripe of treble open crochet, consisting of one row of each of the following colours: namely,—chrysophas green, scarlet, white, gold colour, lilac, and chrysophas green.

Repeat the black row.—Form a stripe similar to the first, with shades of white.—Repeat the black row.

Repeat the stripe of treble open crochet.—Repeat the black row.—Crochet another shaded stripe with lilac.—Repeat the black row.—Repeat the stripe of treble open crochet.—Repeat the black row.—Work another shaded stripe with gold colours.—Repeat the black row.—Repeat the stripe of treble open crochet.—Repeat the black row, and the first shaded stripe with scarlet. This forms the centre stripe. Reverse the order of the coloured stripes to complete the pillow.

A Very Rich Crochet Pattern.

Commence with two plain rows, the first—gold colour; the second—black. The black forms the ground of the first half stripe.

No. 11.

N. B. The zigzag edges of the riband stripe are every where worked with white.

Third row—twelve stitches of black, one of white,—alternately.

Fourth row—one stitch white; three black; three red brown; two black; two middle green; one black; one white.—Repeat.

Fifth row—three stitches white; one black; three orange; two light green; three black; one white.—Repeat.

Sixth row—three stitches scarlet; two white; three black; three gold colour; one black; one white.—Repeat.

Seventh row—five stitches scarlet; two white; one black; three yellow; one black; one white.—Repeat.

Eighth row—one stitch scarlet; four dark stone colour; two scarlet; two white; three black; one white.—Repeat.

Ninth row—two stitches scarlet; four middle stone colour; three scarlet; four white.—Repeat.

Tenth row—two stitches dark green; three light stone colour; seven scarlet; one black.—Repeat.

Eleventh row—three stitches middle green; ten scarlet.—Repeat.

Twelfth row—five stitches light green; five scarlet; one dark stone colour; one scarlet; one light green.—Repeat.

Thirteenth row—one stitch dark stone colour; one scarlet; four dark green; four scarlet; three dark stone colour.—Repeat.

Fourteenth row—one stitch middle stone colour; two scarlet; three middle green; four scarlet; three middle stone colour.—Repeat.

Fifteenth row—one stitch light stone colour; three scarlet; two light green; five scarlet; two light stone colour.—Repeat.

Sixteenth row—six stitches scarlet; four white; three scarlet.—Repeat.

Seventeenth row—six stitches scarlet; one white; three drab; three white.—Repeat.

Eighteenth row—three stitches white; three scarlet; one white; one drab; four dark lilac; one drab.—Repeat.

Nineteenth row—three stitches drab; four white; two drab; four middle lilac.—Repeat.

Twentieth row—six stitches drab; three dark green; three light lilac; one drab.—Repeat.

Twenty-first row—seven stitches drab; three middle green; three drab.—Repeat.

Twenty-second row—four stitches drab; one dark lilac; one drab; six light green; one drab.—Repeat.

Twenty-third row—Four stitches drab; four dark lilac; one drab; four dark green.—Repeat.

Twenty-fourth row—four stitches drab; four middle lilac; two drab; three middle green.—Repeat.

Twenty-fifth row—five stitches drab; three light lilac; three drab; two light green.—Repeat.

Twenty-sixth row—four stitches white; nine drab.—Repeat.

Twenty-seventh row—one stitch white; three blue; three white; six drab.—Repeat.

Twenty-eighth row—one stitch white; one blue; four claret; one blue; three white; three drab.—Repeat.

Twenty-ninth row—one stitch white; two blue; four dark scarlet; three blue; three white.—Repeat.

Thirtieth row—three stitches dark olive; three scarlet; seven blue.—Repeat.

Thirty-first row—one stitch blue; three middle olive; nine blue.—Repeat.

Thirty-second row—six stitches light olive; five blue; one claret; one blue.—Repeat.

Thirty-third row—two stitches claret; one blue; four dark olive; four blue; two claret.—Repeat.

Thirty-fourth row—two stitches dark scarlet; two blue; three middle olive; four blue; two dark scarlet.—Repeat.

Thirty-fifth row—two stitches scarlet; three blue; two light olive; five blue; one scarlet.—Repeat.

Thirty-sixth row—seven stitches blue; four white; two blue.—Repeat.

Thirty-seventh row—one stitch white; six blue; one white; three scarlet (the ground of the next stripe); two white.—Repeat.

This completes the pattern, which consists of the same sprig repeated in different colours, on three different coloured grounds. It will be perceived that the sprigs run in a diagonal direction; and the commencement of the first two rows of the fourth stripe, on referring to the corresponding part of the previous stripe, will show where the next sprig is to be begun.

If worked for a bag, or sac de voyage, the pattern should be commenced from the bottom, thus forming a border at the lower part; but if a pillow, table cover, or couvre-pied, is intended to be made,—first crochet two plain rows, and then commence the pattern as at the sixteenth row.

For working the larger articles in the above pattern, fleecy may be employed; for the smaller—German wool; and for the more elegant—chenille and gold, or silk and gold.

Turkish Pattern for a Table Cover, etc.

This is suitable either for a table cover, counterpane, pillow, the tops of large ottomans, the cover for a chair, a rug, or a bedside carpet. Six-thread fleecy and a steel needle will be required. The dividing line is formed of two clarets. The stripes are scarlet, blue, gold colour, and white.

The pattern on the scarlet stripe—two shades of green, lilac, white, brown, and bright yellow.

On the blue stripe—two scarlets, two whites, two gold colours, two dark scarlets.

On the gold coloured stripe—two blues, claret, white, lilac, and green.

On the white stripe—two greens, two scarlets, two blues, brown, and yellow.

A Table Cover, or Pillow.

Six-thread fleecy with a steel needle.

The pattern of the border is in black,—the ground in shades of gold colour. Commence with a chain of black, and one plain row of the same; then, two plain rows of red brown. In the next row begin the pattern as follows:—

First row—black, with the single stitches of the ground in red brown.

Second and third rows—black and orange.

Fourth, fifth, and sixth rows—black, and gold colour.

Seventh, eighth, and ninth rows—black and yellow. One plain row of straw colour, followed by one plain row of white, complete the border.

Commence the ground of the centre, with one plain row of middle blue. On this blue ground, work the pattern in the following colours:—

First row—dark claret.

Second row—claret.

Third row—claret, with the three centre stitches in white.

Fourth row—middle scarlet.

Fifth row—light scarlet.

Sixth and seventh rows—(forming the second pattern of the centre)—the gold colour and yellow that were used in the ground of the border.

Commence again with the claret, as in the first row of the pattern.

When the square is completed, neatly run in the wools with a rug needle, or tie them close to the work; this will produce a firm edge, on which a fringe may be sewn.

A Couvre-Pied, or Cradle Quilt.

This pattern is very easy, and the effect exceedingly good. It is well adapted for working with chinÉ wool.

The chain and first row black. The next row alternate stitches of black and chinÉ wool (say blue). The ground of the first stripe is in blue chinÉ wool, with the pattern in white. The dividing line black. The ground of the next stripe is worked in scarlet chinÉ wool, with the pattern in white, except the centre line or wave, which should be black.

Raised Crochet.

Raised, or ribbed crochet is worked in rows from right to left, according to the ordinary method; but the side of the work is reversed at every alternate row, as in plain crochet (see page 14), hence it becomes the same as that description of work, with this exception, that the back, or under stitch, is always to be taken; it has therefore a ribbed or raised appearance, and is rendered thicker and closer, and of a more elastic texture.

The annexed design is well adapted for working in raised crochet. The colour, forming the pattern, should only be introduced when necessary, and should not be carried on through the ground, as in plain double crochet; therefore, the same thread must be taken up and dropt, as the form of the pattern may require—a process by no means difficult. When necessary, however, the idle wool should be carried through the stitches of that in use, and not left loose at the back.

The pattern here given is intended to be worked in stripes; these are afterwards to be sewn together. It is very handsome for quilts, couvre-pieds, &c. The colours may be varied, thus—first stripe, white, with the pattern in scarlet; the second, scarlet, with the pattern in white. Shaded wools may be used for the pattern on a plain ground.

A Sofa Pillow, Table Cover, etc.

Commence with a chain of black. Work one row in two stitches of black and two of scarlet, alternately. Then, one row of scarlet and one row of black; the latter forms the ground of the border,—the pattern on which is in four shades of gold colour,—two rows of each, commencing with the darkest. One plain row of black, and one of scarlet, finish the border.

Crochet one plain row of white, then one plain row of blue; the latter forms the ground of the centre. The colours of the pine pattern are as follows:

First row—middle scarlet.

Second row—light scarlet.

Third row—three stitches drab; two black; three drab.

Fourth row—three stitches white; two black; three white.

Fifth row—three stitches gold colour; two lilac; three gold colour.

Sixth row—three stitches yellow; two lilac; three yellow.

Seventh row—three stitches middle scarlet; two black; three middle scarlet.

Eighth row—three stitches light scarlet; two black; three light scarlet.

Ninth row—drab.

Tenth row—white.

Border Pattern for a Square.

This pattern may be employed for a tidy, sofa pillow, mat, carpet, cradle, or bed quilt, carriage wrapper, d’oyley, and a variety of other purposes, where a border on each side may be required. It may be worked either in plain double crochet, or in raised crochet. A different material, together with a different sized needle, are the only requisites to adapt it to any of the above purposes. Thus,—

For a sofa pillow, eight-thread zephyr fleecy; for a tidy, three-thread fleecy; for a window mat, eight-thread common fleecy; for a flower mat, German or English wool; for a cradle quilt, eight-thread zephyr fleecy; for a bed quilt, six-thread fleecy; for a d’oyley, rather fine knitting cotton. The size of the article, however, must in the first instance be determined, and the number of stitches counted, so as to bring in the pattern as suited to that size. The simplest colouring will be the most effective,—a plain ground, with the pattern in any bright colour. Designs of this description, which require calculation and constant counting, may be adopted as amusing, but not as very easy work.

A Diagonal-Striped Bag, with Star-Shaped Bottom.

Make a chain of fourteen stitches, in claret crochet silk; join both ends together, and crochet one plain row all round. In the next row (in order to keep the circle flat), every other stitch is to be made a seam or dividing stitch, which is done by putting the needle under both loops instead of one, and making two stitches, in the same place, every other stitch being a plain stitch. In the next row, work the seam-stitch in the same place, leaving two plain stitches between each, instead of one. Repeat this circle sixteen times, always observing to keep the seam stitch in the same place, the number of plain stitches gradually increasing, when a flat surface of about four inches in diameter will be produced, intersected with seven raised stripes. A vandyke border in claret and green may now be made as follows.

First row—five stitches claret; one green.

Second row—three stitches claret; three green.

Third row—one stitch claret; five green.

Fourth row—green.

The annexed pattern may then be worked in green on the claret ground.

When within five rows of the top of the bag, work one plain row of the ground, repeat the vandyke, and work two plain rows of the claret ground.

This bag is very pretty and delicate worked in white and gold, and in blue and gold; it may also be varied in colour as taste may dictate. The pattern looks extremely well in steel beads.

A Star Bottom for a Bag, with Beads.

Make a chain of fourteen stitches, join both ends together with the crochet, and crochet one plain row all round. In the next row, every other stitch is to be made a seam or dividing stitch, which is done by putting the needle under both loops, instead of under one, and making two stitches in the same place: every other stitch being a plain stitch, on which is to be a bead. In the next row, work the seam stitch exactly over the last, which will leave two plain stitches between, instead of one; this is to be repeated until eight circles are formed, every plain stitch having a bead on it. Crochet eight rows more, leaving the seam-stitch in the same place, but diminish the number of beads, by leaving out one bead in each division on each successive circle, so that the last row will have but one bead in each division. Then, crochet four plain rows, keeping the seam-stitch in the same place as before, then one plain row all round, without a seam-stitch, which forms the bottom of the bag.

A Round Bag, with Star Bottom, and Sprigs in Silk and Gold.

This bag is worked in plain stitch double crochet, with crochet silk, and gold of the same size. A steel needle, with twenty-five yards of gold cord, and about twelve skeins of silk, will be required. The colours of the silk are claret, three shades of green, and black.

Commence with a chain of nine stitches, in claret; unite the ends, and crochet one plain row,—increasing on every stitch. Join on the black silk, and work one stitch of black, and two of claret,—alternately,—increasing with the black stitch. There should now be twenty-seven stitches. Work another row the same, but without increasing. In the next row, (the third, with two colours)—two stitches black, two claret,—alternately—increasing with the black stitches. The two stitches of claret are to be repeated over each other (so as to form a star) in each of the nine following rows.

Fourth and fifth rows—claret and black,—increasing one stitch on every two stitches of the claret.

Sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth rows—claret and dark green,—increasing one stitch, as before.

Tenth row—claret, and middle green, increasing one stitch, as before.

Eleventh row—one stitch gold; four middle green,—increasing one stitch; two gold; two green; one gold; two claret.—Repeat.

Twelfth row—two stitches gold; two middle green; three gold; two green; one gold; two claret.—Repeat.

Thirteenth row—two stitches gold; three middle green; one gold; three green; two gold,—increasing on the gold stitches; two claret.—Repeat.

Fourteenth row—one stitch claret; two gold; five light green; two gold; five claret,—increasing on the third stitch.—Repeat from the first two gold stitches.

Fifteenth row—one stitch claret; two gold; three light green; two gold; eight claret,—increasing on the third stitch.—Repeat from the first two gold stitches.

Sixteenth row—one stitch claret; five gold; five claret,—increasing on the third stitch; one gold; five claret.—Repeat from the five gold stitches.

Seventeenth row—one stitch claret; three gold; five claret; three gold; six claret,—increasing on the second stitch.—Repeat from the first three gold stitches.

Eighteenth row—one stitch claret; one gold; three claret,—increasing on the second stitch; two dark green; two claret; three gold; two claret; two green; three claret.—Repeat from the first gold stitch.

Nineteenth row—four stitches claret; two middle green; two gold; one claret; one gold; one claret; two gold; two green; seven claret.—Repeat from the first two green stitches.

Twentieth row—one stitch claret; two light green; two claret; one gold; two claret; two green; nine claret, without increasing.—Repeat from the first two green stitches.

Twenty-first row—two stitches claret; five dark green; fourteen claret.—Repeat from the five green stitches.

Twenty-second row—one stitch claret; three middle green; fifteen claret.—Repeat from the three green stitches.

The bottom, and the first row of sprigs are now completed,—the bag being at its full diameter. In the next row the sprigs are to be commenced again.

A Bag in Silk and Gold.

The pattern on this bag is in white and gold,—the ground being of a rich Waterloo blue. It should be worked with middle-sized crochet silk. The above scroll pattern will be repeated nine times, on a bag of the usual size. Commence with a chain of one hundred and eighty stitches.

Chain, and first row,—Waterloo blue.

Second row—white.

Third row—Waterloo blue.

Fourth row—gold.

Fifth row—two stitches gold, two blue,—alternately.

Sixth row—one stitch gold, three blue—alternately.

Work one row of blue, and commence the scroll pattern as follows:—

First row—two stitches blue; six gold; four blue; three white; five blue.—Repeat to the end of the row.

Second row—one stitch blue; one gold; three blue; two gold; three white; one blue; two gold; seven blue.—Repeat.

Third row—one stitch gold; five blue; three gold; two white; three blue; three white; three blue.—Repeat.

Fourth row—one stitch gold; one blue; three gold; two blue; three gold; two white; one blue; three gold; four blue.—Repeat.

Fifth row—one stitch gold; one blue; one gold; two white; one gold; one blue; four gold; two white; three blue; three white; one blue.—Repeat.

Sixth row—one stitch gold; two blue; three gold; one blue; five gold; two white; one blue; three gold; two blue.—Repeat.

Seventh row—one stitch blue; one gold; three blue; one gold; two blue; two gold; one blue; two gold; two white; three blue; two white.—Repeat.

Eighth row—two stitches blue; four gold; three blue; one gold; one blue; two gold; one blue; one gold; two white; two gold; one blue.—Repeat.

Ninth row—four stitches blue; one gold; seven blue; one gold; one blue; three gold; one white; two blue.—Repeat.

Tenth row—three stitches white; one gold; eleven blue; three gold; two white.—Repeat.

Eleventh row—three stitches gold; fourteen blue; three gold.—Repeat.

The above cachemir pattern may be taken for the upper part of the bag,—being worked in white and gold.

A very Pretty Bag in shades of Silk, with Gold.

The most elegant colouring for this bag will be four shades, from black, of any pretty Écru; mixed with either blue, violet, scarlet, or green, in an equal number of shades.

Commence with a chain of two hundred and forty stitches in fine netting silk;—work two plain rows of open crochet, and join them together at both their edges: this will form a pretty finish for the bottom of the bag. Crochet one plain row of black.

The above pattern is now to be worked.—Commence with the gold, to form a half row of diamonds, by crocheting one plain row. In the next row,—three stitches gold, one black,—alternately;—in the next row,—one stitch gold, three black,—alternately. The next row is black,—forming the centre row, of the first perfect row of diamonds.

The next row of diamonds,—formed of the darkest shade of Écru, is commenced as the preceding,—one stitch Écru; three black; in the next row,—three stitches Écru; one black.

This finishes the first complete row of diamonds in black. The next row is plain Écru,—forming the centre row of the second perfect row of diamonds. The third row of diamonds is to be a middle shade of Écru; the fourth—the lightest shade of Écru.

Repeat one row of diamonds in gold, and commence another stripe of diamonds with any of the before-mentioned colours, beginning with black; then the darkest shade; then the middle; and lastly, the lightest.

Repeat the one row of diamonds in gold, and commence again with the stripe in shades of Écru.

A Chenille Bag.

Commence with a chain of four stitches in blue; having united the ends, crochet three rows,—increasing on every stitch, in the first and second rows; and on every other stitch in the third row, which should count twenty-four stitches.

Fourth row—join on the claret; work one stitch claret, one blue,—alternately.

Fifth row—two stitches claret; one blue—alternately,—increasing on the claret stitches.

Sixth row—two stitches claret; two blue,—increasing on the blue stitches.

Seventh row—two stitches claret; three blue,—increasing on the second stitch of blue.

Eighth row—two stitches claret; four blue,—increasing on the second stitch of blue.

Ninth row—two stitches claret; five blue,—increasing on the second stitch of blue.

Tenth row—two stitches claret; six blue,—increasing on the third stitch of blue.

Eleventh and twelfth rows—two stitches claret; six blue,—without increasing.

Thirteenth row—two stitches claret; seven blue,—increasing on the third stitch of blue.

Fourteenth row—one stitch claret; five blue; five claret,—increasing on the second stitch; five blue; four claret,—without increasing.—Repeat from the first five stitches of blue.

Fifteenth row—one stitch claret; three blue; seven claret; three blue; seven claret,—increasing on the third stitch.—Repeat from the first three blue stitches.

Sixteenth row—one stitch claret; one blue; ten claret,—increasing on the fourth stitch.—Repeat from the first blue stitch.

Seventeenth and eighteenth rows—claret,—without increasing.

Nineteenth row—claret,—increasing one stitch on every thirty-third. This row should contain one hundred and thirty-six stitches, when the bag will have acquired its full size, and the increasing be finished.

The next three rows are worked in four stitches of gold, and four of claret,—alternately. Then, four plain rows, viz.—one of gold; one of black; one of white; and one of gold;—followed by one row of blue, and one row of white, in double open crochet; then, one row of gold, one row of black, and one row of gold, in plain crochet. Repeat the two rows of double open crochet,—the first in blue, the second in claret;—also the one row of gold; the one row of black; and the one row of gold. Commence again with the rows of blue and white, in double open crochet.

There should be four divisions of double open crochet, the bag being finished with the black and gold stripe.

An open Crochet Bag in Chenille.

Make a chain of six loops, in fine blue chenille, and unite both ends. Crochet in rows,—to form a round (increasing a sufficient number of stitches in each row to keep the work flat), until fourteen rows are finished. This forms the bottom of the bag.

Commence a vandyke pattern, by making one stitch of gold to every fifth of the coloured ground, in the first row. In the next row three stitches of gold, and three of the ground; in the next, five of the gold, and one of the ground. The two next rows are to be plain—the first of gold, the second of black.

Work two rows of open crochet,—the one in scarlet, the other in blue.

The two rows of black, with one row of gold between, are then to be worked in plain crochet; followed by two rows of open crochet,—the first white, the second blue. Repeat the two rows of black, with the gold between, and the two rows of open crochet,—alternately, to complete the bag.

About sixteen skeins of chenille, and twenty-four yards of gold cord, will be required.

A Greek Cap in Crochet Silk.

Commence at the top with a chain of fourteen stitches, unite the ends, and crochet one plain row. In the next row, make a raised or dividing line on every other stitch, as for the bottoms of bags. The increasing must be continued until the diameter of the circle is about six inches and a half. Work round this, in plain rows, until the cap be sufficiently deep; occasional increasing stitches may be made, if it be not large enough.

The cap should be finished with a double gold braid,—meeting the points of the increasing lines: a gold band round the bottom, and a handsome tassel at the top may be added; or in the place of these, silk trimmings may be substituted. It requires to be very neatly made up in the inside.

A Greek Cap in coarse Chenille.

Commence at the top with a chain of six or eight stitches; unite the ends, and work in rows round and round, (increasing a sufficient number of stitches in each row to keep the work flat,) until it be about eight inches in diameter. The sides may be worked in open crochet, introducing a few plain lines of black and gold between each two rows of the open crochet.

The best colours for a cap in chenille are black and gold;—dark blue, black, and gold;—and claret, black, and gold.

An Essuie-Plume.

Commence with a chain of about six stitches in plain green netting silk; crochet both ends together; work three plain rows of green, and then one row of alternate stitches of dark scarlet and green.

The scarlet silk will now form the ground, on which the star pattern of green is to be worked. Crochet a row with two stitches of green, and two of scarlet, alternately; in the next row, two of scarlet and three of green. Crochet, in a similar manner, one row after another, increasing on each row one stitch in the green pattern, every time that colour is repeated, until it counts seven stitches in each division; taking care to keep the two scarlet stitches of the ground exactly over each other.

The pattern is now to be decreased, by working four stitches of scarlet and five of green; in the next row,—seven of scarlet and three of green; and in the next,—ten of scarlet and one of green;—increasing one stitch in each division of the ground.

Work two plain rows of scarlet, increasing a sufficient number of stitches to keep the work flat, and finish with a kind of fringe, formed by two rows of open crochet in green.

A Neck Chain.

The chain is made by commencing with five plain stitches, then putting the needle through the back of the second stitch, and making one plain stitch. It will be found, by twisting the chain after every stitch, that one stitch appears to go across,—this is the stitch that is always to be taken and crocheted.

A Crochet Slipper.

The light-coloured stripes composing this slipper, are alternately buff and white: the dark stripe between each is a full blue. Each stripe is separated by a dividing line of black. The colours of the pattern on each stripe, are as follow:—

Commence at the toe with the blue stripe,—the colours of the pattern being claret, gold colour, and scarlet.

The second stripe is buff,—the colours of the pattern being dark blue, lilac, scarlet, and green.

Repeat the blue stripe.

The fourth stripe is white,—the colours of the pattern being violet, lilac, green, and scarlet.

This slipper may be worked in crochet silk, or German wool. The number of stripes must depend on the required size of the slipper.

Another Crochet Slipper.

The above pattern is intended for a slipper, in German wool, or crochet silk, in stripes, across the front, continued in the same direction round the back. The colours of the different stripes,—commencing at the toe, are as follow:—

First stripe—gold colour; with the pattern composed of black, green, white, bright scarlet, and black.

Second stripe—blue; the pattern in scarlet, black, gold colour, white, and claret.

Third stripe—(the centre of the engraving) scarlet; this stripe is wider than any other on the slipper. The pattern on it is composed of light green, dark green, black, light blue, and gold colour, dark blue and claret, black, gold colour and lilac, white and dark lilac, light green, and dark green.

Fourth stripe—white; the pattern in blue, yellow, lilac, green, and scarlet.

The narrow stripes are repeated round the back of the slipper; they are gold colour, blue, scarlet, white, and green.

For a moderate-sized gentleman’s slipper in crochet silk, the toe might be commenced with twenty-four stitches, and increased in the succeeding rows, until the width across the instep were eighty stitches,—but, as some persons work so much tighter than others, a positive number cannot be given. The silk also may vary in size, as well as the dimensions required for a slipper. The increasing is made by the addition of a stitch on each side of the work.

The stripes in the front of the slipper are gold colour, blue, scarlet, and white; the latter crosses the instep. Count the number of stitches on the white stripe, and, with the gold colour commence a stripe one third of its length on one side, to form the back. Continue these stripes, until the back be sufficiently long to be sewn to the front on the other side. It is advisable, before commencing a slipper, to cut a paper pattern of the desired size and shape.

The above form chaussons to wear over the shoes, the sole being formed of coarse crochet in black; or they may be made up in the usual way for slippers, either for ladies or gentlemen. In crochet silk they are extremely warm and durable.—The ends of the wool or silk, are to be threaded with a needle, and run into the work on the inside.

A Purse.

Plain crochet-purses are exceedingly strong, and may be made very prettily with a moderate sized netting silk. Those, worked in rows the length of the purse, are the most easily made.

Make a chain in scarlet netting silk of one hundred and forty stitches, on which crochet three plain rows with the same colour. Then, five plain rows in shades of green, or stone colour. These two stripes are to be repeated until the purse is of a sufficient width. When completed, it is to be neatly sewn up, or joined by crocheting the two sides together. The ends are then to be drawn up, and the purse trimmed.

A Plain Purse with one Square and one Round End.

Commence with a chain of fourteen stitches, and joining both ends together, crochet one plain row all round. In the next row, every alternate stitch is to be made a dividing or seam-stitch; this is done by passing the needle under both the corresponding loops in the first row, and making two stitches in the same place. This dividing stitch is to be repeated in the same place on each row, until ten rows are worked; when a sufficient number of plain rows are to be crocheted according to the length of the purse, until the side opening commences.

The opening of the purse is made by crocheting plain rows, alternately, from right to left, and from left to right. When a sufficient number of these are done:—

The plain rows are again to be worked, to correspond with the former part; but, instead of the round end, it is to be left square, and sewn up, with a tassel at either corner.

A Plain-stitch Open Crochet Purse.

Make a chain of one hundred and sixty, or one hundred and seventy stitches; to the last stitch of this, crochet a short chain of five stitches, the last of which is again to be crocheted to the fifth stitch of the chain; repeat this on the whole length of the foundation; and return along the row in the same way, by attaching every fifth stitch to the centre stitch of each loop of the last row. The whole of the purse is to be continued in the same manner, but it may be varied, according to taste, by using two or more colours. When the purse is worked to the size desired, cut a piece of stiff cardboard, and sew the purse firmly to it,—the wrong side outwards; then, damp it with water, and allow it to remain until dry. This process will stretch the purse, tighten the stitches, and bring them all into their proper places. Then, having sewn or crocheted up the sides, draw up the ends and put on the trimmings.—This purse should only be made with fine silk.

The pattern No. 1 (page 16) represents this stitch.

An Elegant Purse in Silk and Gold.

Commence with a chain of one hundred and eighty stitches in fine white netting silk.

Second row—gold.

Third row—white.

Crochet eleven rows with bright violet silk, with the above pattern in gold.

Fifteenth row—white.

Sixteenth row—gold.

Seventeenth row—white.

Work three rows of treble open crochet with gold. The above, worked four times, will complete the purse. It is advisable to omit one of the circular figures, in the centre of each stripe; and also, to reverse the direction of the pattern at the opposite end of the purse.

Ponceau, blue, or green, may be substituted for the violet silk.

This pattern may also be effectively worked in any two decided colours, either with zephyr, or six-thread fleecy, for sofa pillows, tidies, etc.

A Short Purse.

Commence at the bottom with a chain of fourteen stitches; unite both ends, and work round and round, increasing by means of dividing lines, until a flat circle of about two inches in diameter be formed. On this, work plain rows until the purse be about three inches in length. It must then be exactly divided, and each side worked backwards and forwards, for about eight rows, or whatever is sufficient for the depth of the snap.

The annexed pine pattern, and the usual vandyke, are suitable for short purses. About one hundred and twenty stitches will form a good-sized purse.

A Sprigged Purse in Open and Plain Crochet.

Commence with one row of open crochet, in gold-coloured silk; work a row of plain crochet, every two stitches alternately blue and gold colour; then, one row of plain blue.

The next, or fourth row—is formed alternately, of two stitches of scarlet, and five of blue.

Fifth row—four blue, five white, alternately.

Sixth row—four blue; four stone colour.

Seventh row—five stitches blue; two pink.

Repeat the row of plain blue; then, one row, alternately two stitches of blue and two of gold colour, and commence again with the open crochet.

An Elegant Purse with Gold.

Commence with one row of open crochet, the length of the purse, in fine white netting silk. Then, one row of plain crochet, in alternate stitches, of white and full blue, or white and ponceau.

No. 26.