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Crochet Extra – March 2025

Crochet Extra  – March 2025

Crochet Extra – March 2025

Welcome to March and the first day of Autumn!

While Autumn has started, we still have some very warm days up here in Queensland, although some parts of the country have started to experience the cooler weather and working on their winter projects.  It will arrive here soon enough too!

Have you ever thought of entering your projects into competitions?  It’s not just about winning, but inspiring others to be creative and say involved with this wonderful craft.   We at Crochet Australia love to see all of your creations, and I know others would too.  To this end we are sponsoring a range of competitions this year where you could win vouchers to spend at our store:

  1. EKKA (Royal Brisbane Show) – We sponsor the Best in Show for Crocheted items.  Applications are now open and close on 23rd  They have a vast array of classes – see their schedule here
  2. Sunshine Coast Show Agricultural Show – We sponsor all the Crochet Categories. Applications will open on 1st April and close on 9th June – see their schedule here
  3. Crochet Guild Convention – Enter the ‘Many Hats You Wear’ Challenge – see all details here.

Tickets for attending the Crochet Guild Convention for 2025 will be available any day now.  Crochet Australia are proud to be one of the major sponsors of the event.   I have been assured there are a wide range of workshops that will be on offer helping crocheters of all levels improve their crochet skills.  Find out more about the Convention here.

LeeI’d like to introduce our new team member – Lee.  Lee is a crafty and creative person, and believes she is now in her dream—job to be working amongst the beautiful selection of yarns and hooks. She has been crocheting for 14 years so brings a wealth of experience—from making granny square and hexagonal cardigans, to amigurumi, beanies, blankets, succulent and cacti plants, and has dabbled in freeform.

It’s now just one month to go until the Crochet Tournament starts – registrations are still pouring in.  If you haven’t yet signed up, you can do so here.  Don’t forget to wait for your discount code to arrive before ordering your yarn packs!

And I am really loving seeing the colourways go out – a few of you have chosen your own colours and I am excited to see how they turn out.

learn interlocking crochet classIn this months’ class we are turning our hands to something new – learning the interlocking crochet technique with this pattern designed by Ashlee Brotzell.

book now

Monday nights online 7pm – 9pm (Brisbane time), Tuesday mornings in store 9.30 – 11.30 or Wednesday nights in store 5.30 – 7.30.

Until next time

Lynda


Theme—The Delicacy of Thread

This month, we’re diving into the intricate and delicate world of cotton threads! Whether you’re a long-time thread enthusiast or new to working with finer materials – you will agree the beauty and versatility of crochet threads is enormous!  Whether you’re making heirloom-quality lace or delicate accessories, threads open up a world of possibilities for crocheters, knitters and tatters. 

thread size comparisonThreads come in many sizes from the finest #100 up to size 5.  However, the numbering system is the reverse of yarn – the bigger the number, the finer the thread is! 

While typically the threads are comprised of mercerized cotton, which is very tightly spun, you can also find threads in silk and occasionally wool.  Here at Crochet Australia we stock a large range of cotton threads from sizes 5 to 100. 

If you are new to thread crochet, or seeing and holding thread is challenging, I do recommend working in thread sizes 5 or 10. 

Best Crochet Thread Projects 

Working with thread allows for incredible detail and artistry, and designs have a delicateness to them that isn’t always seen with yarn. Some of the most popular and rewarding thread projects include: 

  • Doilies, jug covers,Table Runners and Tablecloths: These timeless classics add an elegant touch to any space and are a wonderful way to practice intricate patterns in all thread sizes. 
  • Lace & Edgings: Enhance handkerchiefs, pillowcases, and garments with a delicate, vintage charm. 
  • Jewellery & Accessories: Lightweight thread make stunning earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. 
  • Miniature Crochet: Also called micro-crochet is becoming increasing popular.  This involves taking patterns traditionally done incactus earring thicker yarn and making them with thread, to create bookmarks, ornaments, and keyrings.  Examples are amigurumi, granny squares, and mandalas. 

Essential Tools for Working with Crochet Threads 

Since thread is much finer than regular yarn, using the right tools is key to a successful project. Here are some must-haves: 

  • Steel Crochet Hooks and Knitting Needles: Unlike traditional hooks and needles, steel hooks and needles are designed specifically for use with the finer thread.
    These hooks range from 0.4mm up to 2mm (depending on the brand).  Below is a guide for the use of steel hooks with threads. 

crochet hook sizes and threadsAs these hooks are thin, cramping in hands is more common, so using ergonomic handles or adding cushion grips to your hooks is recommended.  Take regular breaks and exercise your hands  

  • Fine-Tipped Needles: For weaving in ends and adding embellishments, a set of small needles is essential. 
  • Good Lighting & Magnification: Working with fine details can be a strain on the eyes, so invest in a good lamp or magnifier – it can make all the difference. 
  • Blocking:  Projects made with thread generally need blocking in order to really show off the intricate patterns.  Having steel pins that won’t rust is a must.  Read our tip on blocking to see the best method to use.

Explore Crochet Threads with Us! 

In the section below we explore patterns and books designed for thread, tools available and show off the range of threads we have – DMC, Madame Tricot and Lizbeth – all good quality and suitable for a range of thread projects. 

Or try this on trend Wednesday Collar and Cuff by Yarnspirations made with #10 threadwednesday crochet collar and cuff


Book of the Month

Ultimate Guide To  Thread  Crochetultimate guide to thread crochet

If you can crochet with yarn, you’ll easily transition to making a cell phone pouch, a ring belt to wear with your favorite jeans, or lace trim for a blouse–all with thread crochet!

A bit rusty on crochet stitches? Just review the stitch guide at the back. Whether you want to create coasters or baby booties, you’ll find all the information you need.

You can also learn which thread weights are best for your project and pick up some fun techniques and helpful hints. 23 must-have accessories and lace trims: scarf, vest, 2 doilies, filet initial, belt, cell phone pouch, necklace, coaster, bird, 3 snowflakes, bookmark, sachet, baby booties, baby bonnet, receiving blanket, and 5 edgings sewn on clothing.

60 pages  US terminology


Customer Corner

Thank you everyone for sending in pictures of what you have been making in the past quarter. We feature below some comments and masterpieces submitted by customers. Send us a photo of your masterpiece (by the submissions page, email or on our facebook page), telling us which book it came from and which yarn or thread you used, and be in the draw to win a $25 voucher in June 2025  (see conditions on our website). Please also add any tips you’ve picked up when making them.  Congratulations to Karen W for winning this quarter’s voucher – submitting a photo of Meandering Vines Bag


Look What We Found

Threads

Size 5

5938 Chocolate Brown

Size 5 threads in DMC and Madame Tricot

Size 10

dmc babylo cotton thread balls

Size 10 cotton threads in DMC, Madam Tricot, Finca Presencia and Lizbeth

Size 20

lizbeth thread

Size 20 cotton threads in DMC, Madam Tricot, Finca Presencia and Lizbeth

Size 30

Size 30 cotton threads in DMC, Finca Presencia and Lizbeth

Size 40 – 60

lizbeth cotton thread size 40

Size 40, 50 and 60 cotton threads in DMC, Finca Presencia and Lizbeth

Size 80 – 100

lizbeth cotton thread size 80

Size 80 – 100 cotton threads in DMC, Finca Presencia and Lizbeth

Crochet Books

 Knitting and Tatting Books

Patterns & Kits

Sold
Flower Fields Table runner

Jug Cover Kit

Original price was: $32.20 – $32.80Price range: $32.20 through $32.80.Current price is: $30.00 – $32.80Price range: $30.00 through $32.80. Inc. GST
Sold
knit doily kit

Heirloom Knitted Doily Kit

$10.50 Inc. GST

Tools & Accessories

Blocking Wire

$21.00 Inc. GST

Clover Amour Crochet Hook

Price range: $13.50 through $18.60 Inc. GST

Clover Soft Touch Hook Set Steel

Original price was: $103.60.Current price is: $98.44. Inc. GST

Darning Needle Set

Price range: $10.60 through $14.20 Inc. GST

Fine Steel Crochet hook Lacis

Price range: $8.80 through $9.90 Inc. GST

KnitPro Soft Grip Crochet Hook

Price range: $4.90 through $6.20 Inc. GST

Knitting Needles Aluminium 30cm long

Price range: $2.50 through $3.50 Inc. GST

Mini Scissors

$9.50 Inc. GST

Set of 3 thread tatting needles

Price range: $35.50 through $36.50 Inc. GST

Susan Bates Soft Hook Set

Price range: $20.50 through $22.50 Inc. GST

Tulip Etimo Rose Crochet Hooks

Price range: $26.00 through $34.00 Inc. GST