Better crochet fabric doesn’t have to mean big changes! In fact, you’re probably just a set of simple tips, tricks and techniques away from the results you want. Join designer Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby on a journey through it all, starting with an easier way to read charts. Moving on, you’ll discover new stitches you can substitute for tidier edges or foundation chains. Dreaming of smooth, drapey fabric? Find out how linked stitches can close the gaps and make it happen. Then, add some “wow” techniques to your toolkit, such as crochet I-cord. Shannon will also guide you through some must-have math shortcuts for getting the perfect fit, and you’ll even end class with new takes on popular stitch patterns.
Crochet Toolkit: Designer Tips & Tricks
Make all of your crochet projects look and feel better! Discover designer-favorite tweaks and techniques for fabulous fabric, fitting and beyond.
Overview
About
Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby has been teaching for more than 20 years and created award-winning crochet, knit, and sewing designs featured in publications around the world. He and his his husband Jason Mullett-Bowlsby published 10 books of crochet and knitwear patterns and cofounded Shibaguyz, a multi-faceted company. They live in Seattle with their three Shiba Inu.
01: Strengthen Your Basic Skills
Meet Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby and begin class with a refresher on reading charts. Then, move on to advanced skills for carrying yarn up the side of your work. Shannon also demonstrates how to extend foundation stitches for buttonholes, armholes and extending the arms of garment.
20 min
02: Sharpen Your Hook Skills
It's time to learn three of Shannon's favorite techniques! Start with the bridge stitch for a cleaner finish to your final row in the round. Continue on to wrapped, standing and first stitches that you can substitute for those awkward chains that start a row. Finally, try your hand at linked stitches to close up the gaps in your fabric.
24 min
03: WOW! Crocheted Cords
Bring I-cord into your bag of skills for garments, accessories and home decor! Shannon guides you through all the steps for crochet I-cords, starting with Romanian cord. Want to conquer cords for gorgeous borders? Follow along with Shannon and find out how to create the same styles as attached I-cords.
21 min
04: Make Math Work for You!
Crochet takes math, so why not make that math work for you? Shannon teaches how to take the proper measurements based on your pattern, so all your projects will fit perfectly. Have a pattern that doesn't tell you the measurements? With the included calculation sheet, you can figure them out yourself!
14 min
05: FABulous Fabrics: Solids
Find out Shannon's secrets for FABulous crocheted stitch patterns that make solid fabrics pop! Follow along for the linen stitch before you discover how to work front and back loop four different ways. Shannon even ends this lesson with two terrific options for twisted stitches.
24 min
06: FABulous Fabrics: Surface Texture & Lace
Want to expand on your toolkit for ribbing? Find out how to work beautiful ribbing six eye-catching ways: post-stitch ribbing, slip-stitch ribbing and more. For fun crochet openwork, Shannon shares a beautiful variation of broomstick lace, "non-stick lace."
22 min
