Haute fashion with a hook: Crocheting

Subject to considerable controversy regarding its origin, crocheting has gradually evolved into a source of livelihood for many and a significant source of employment and revenue generation as well.

Crochet is a way of creating fabric from yarn or thread using a crochet hook. It is derived from the French word croc or croche, which means hook. Fabric is created by pulling loops of yarn through other loops. Crochet differs from knitting in a way that only one loop is active at a time. Initially, crocheting was done in thread, usually of a white hue. Earlier crocheters used thicker yarns and created less delicate clothing. Crocheting remained dormant until the 60s and thereafter gained popularity. Crochet products are usually bought by the middle and upper-class people. The transformation of crochet as a status symbol, rather than a unique craft, has initiated this practice. The impression was mitigated, to some extent by Queen Victoria, who bought Irish crochet lace and even learned the art herself. Later, it evolved in texture and into more complicated stitching styles.

Global Market:

During the earlier times, vibrant shades of bright red, lime acrylic, and orange yarns were used to make heavy and labored patterns. Modern-day crocheting changed the strong colors for pastel shades. Dark hues are used mainly for highlighting. Crocheting, like many other textile crafts, has suffered decades of negative publicity. Currently, there is a revival of interest, along with an improvement in the quality and varieties of yarn used. Today, around the world, crochet has become a flourishing cottage industry and supports people with their livelihood. The handicraft is flourishing in Europe, especially in Ireland and Northern France. Needle-produced crochet work is much in demand in mainland Britain, and Irish crochet inspirations of the nineteenth century are relatively high, rare, and are much sought after.

Textile Applications:

Crocheting has its own uniqueness. The pattern has a mathematical structure that is difficult to reproduce using other media and is difficult to understand if viewed two-dimensionally.

Crocheted fabrics have won a place for itself in the pantheon of exquisite decorative textiles. Apparels are made from crocheted fabrics consisting of a blend of cotton and polyester enabling durability and a soft feel. Paired with the finest fabrics, they make unique and dazzling creations. Crocheted laces fabricated from the finest threads in appealing styles