20 TERMS EVERY CROCHETER SHOULD KNOW [CROCHET 101] - TL Yarn Crafts

Summary

In this video, Tony from TL Yarn Crafts introduces 20 essential crochet terms, acronyms, and slang, making them easier to understand for both beginners and seasoned crocheters. From 'frogging' (ripping out stitches) to 'yarn chicken' (gambling with limited yarn), Tony explains the meaning behind each term with a fun and engaging approach. Whether it’s learning about the different types of yarn or the importance of a swatch, this video is a must-watch for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of crochet language and culture.

Takeaways

• 😀 **Frogging** means ripping out crochet stitches, derived from the sound 'ribbit' a frog makes.
• 😀 **Swatch** refers to a sample piece of crochet to test tension and patterns before starting a project.
• 😀 **Dye lot** is the batch in which yarn is dyed. Always buy yarn from the same dye lot to ensure consistent color.
• 😀 **Ply** refers to the number of strands twisted together to make a yarn, influencing stitch definition.
• 😀 **Yarn swift** and **winder** are tools used to transform a twisted yarn hank into a usable ball (cake).
• 😀 **Notions** are essential crochet tools like scissors, stitch markers, and tapestry needles, aside from hooks.
• 😀 **Krojo** is the energy or mojo for crocheting. When it's low, try starting a new project to reignite your passion.
• 😀 **Yarn barf** refers to the tangled mess that comes when trying to pull yarn from the center of a skein or ball.
• 😀 **Yarn chicken** is the gamble of running out of yarn before finishing a project. It’s a fun but risky challenge.
• 😀 **CAL** (Crochet Along) is an event where crocheters work on the same project together, building community.
• 😀 **WIP** (Work in Progress) and **UFO** (Unfinished Object) are terms for projects that are either actively being worked on or put on hold.
• 😀 **FO** (Finished Object) means a completed crochet project, ready to use or wear.

Q & A

What is 'frogging' in crochet?

Frogging refers to the process of ripping out crochet stitches. The term comes from the sound 'ribbit' made by frogs, which is similar to the 'rip it' sound made when undoing stitches.

What is a 'swatch' in crochet?

A swatch is a small piece of fabric that you make before starting a project to check your tension, yarn choice, or stitch pattern. It helps ensure your project will turn out the right size and use the correct amount of yarn.

Why is swatching important in crochet?

Swatching is important to make sure your tension matches the pattern’s requirements. If your tension is off, your project may end up too large or too small, and you could run out of yarn.

What is a 'dye lot' in yarn?

A dye lot is a batch of yarn dyed together. Yarns from the same dye lot will have consistent color, but yarns from different dye lots may have slight color variations due to differences in the dyeing process.

What does 'ply' refer to in crochet?

Ply refers to the number of strands twisted together to form a yarn. A single-ply yarn has one strand, while multi-ply yarns have two or more strands twisted together, providing more stitch definition and strength.

What is a 'yarn swift' and why is it useful?

A yarn swift is a tool used to hold a twisted hank of yarn while it is being wound into a cake using a yarn winder. It prevents tangling and makes the yarn easier to use for your project.

What are 'notions' in crochet?

Notions are the additional tools and accessories used in crochet, other than the crochet hook. Examples include scissors, stitch markers, tapestry needles, and measuring tools.

What does 'krojo' mean in crochet?

Krojo refers to the 'crochet mojo' or the creative energy that drives you to crochet. Sometimes, it can dip, and you might struggle to get into your projects, but finding inspiration from others or starting a new project can help reignite your krojo.

What is 'yarn barf'?

Yarn barf is the frustrating tangled mess of yarn that can occur when you pull from the center of a ball or skein. It's especially common when yarn is not wound properly, leading to a knotty mess that can take time to untangle.

What does 'yarn chicken' mean?

Yarn chicken refers to the risky act of continuing a project even when you're nearing the end of a ball of yarn and unsure if you'll have enough to finish. If you run out, you might have to adjust your project by using a smaller hook or stitch.

What is a 'crochet along' (CAL)?

A crochet along (CAL) is an event where crocheters work on the same project or theme together, either in person or virtually. It’s a great way to build community, share progress, and finish projects with others.

What does 'hot off the hook' (HOTH) mean?

Hot off the hook refers to a crochet project that has just been completed, often before any finishing touches like weaving in ends or blocking have been done.

What is the difference between a 'skein' and a 'hank'?

A skein is a type of yarn that comes in a twisted form, ready to use directly, while a hank is a twisted loop of yarn that needs to be wound into a ball before use to prevent tangling.

What does 'UFO' stand for in crochet?

UFO stands for 'unfinished object.' It refers to projects that are not completed and may be temporarily set aside for later finishing.

What does 'FO' stand for in crochet?

FO stands for 'finished object.' It refers to a project that is 100% complete, including all stitching, finishing, and blocking.