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Hello, my name is Lenore Berry-Zaragosa, also known as StrawberryCouture. I am the proud owner and founder of the StrawberryCouture Etsy store, which I established back in 2006. My Etsy store specializes in selling crochet hat patterns, and since 2020, I've been blogging full-time about my crocheting methods and the stitches I use for my patterns.


My passion for crocheting was sparked by my beloved grandmother, a retired educator who spent her final years crocheting something for everyone in our family. As a young child, I remember latch hooking rugs while my grandmother crocheted blankets. We even earned the nickname of the "craft hookers"!


Aside from crocheting, I also sewed clothing as a hobby during my college years from 1989-1991. My life took a different turn after my second year of college when I served in the United States Army as a cook for five years. The Army was a tough but valuable learning experience where I learned the importance of hard work and customer service. I even served a 1-year tour in Korea as a specialist, which taught me the value of respectful communication.


After my time in the Army, I ventured into entrepreneurship by starting two small businesses. My first business was a home-based sewing business called “Custom Fitting Designs,” where I created custom clothes for a small clientele.


Throughout my crochet journey, I've managed to develop and master a range of crochet techniques and methods. I love sharing my knowledge with others through my video tutorials, where I cover various topics such as how to work the double crochet stitch, creating the Mobius chain, and single crocheting in a twisted chain.


I also explain how to crochet the ribbed stitch in the round and the basic chain stitches. My goal is to share my passion for crocheting with the world and inspire others to explore this wonderful craft

The crocheting methods I employed on Etsy are described on this page. Since 2006, I have sold there. I wrote about my PDF patterns while hand-crocheting real hats. I sell my patterns and blog about my skills full-time from 2020 to the present. It's good to concentrate on activities I enjoy.

My grandma introduced me to homemade crafts when I was a young child and she is the one who introduced me to crochet. Grandma, a retired educator, spent her final years crocheting something for everyone. I latch hooked rugs while she crocheted blankets. We purchased the yarn we needed. We were known to others as the craft hookers.

Etsy Logo

For my strawberrycouture Etsy store, I provide explanations and answers regarding the crocheting methods I employ in my hat patterns. In my tutorials, I demonstrate chain stitching and crocheting magic circles. What makes a good business name for crochet?

StrawberryCouture on Etsy

PDF Downloadable Pattern. Shop, Download, Crochet, Enjoy!

PDF Downloadable Pattern. Shop, Download, Crochet, Enjoy!

PDF Downloadable Pattern. Shop, Download, Crochet, Enjoy!

CLICK HERE TO BUY

CLICK HERE TO BUY

CLICK HERE TO BUY

Semi-Lined Sewing People Girl With Sewing Machine

As a hobby, I sewed clothing. Shapes and colors started to appear gradually in my thoughts. They took up much of my college study time (1989-1991). I did not consider crafts to be a secular industry.

After my second year of college, I held a variety of jobs. I worked as a cook for the United States Army for five years. I learned to work hard from it. After every meal, we had to finish a production schedule. For instance, we needed to determine how many pounds of beef we would need to prepare for 500 guests.

Frying Pan and Spatula

To order food rations, determine the number of individuals to feed. Observe the directions on the recipe card. Our mess hall was inspected. To ensure we complied with guidelines, think of a cafeteria. Check to see if the food was at the proper temperature. However, temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees F are dangerous. Ensure that nobody becomes ill, above all. The importance of customer service. Through this experience, I learned the importance of client satisfaction. True grit gets results!

South Korea Flag Icon

I served a 1-year tour in Korea as a specialist, the rank of E-4. I worked the job of a sergeant. This is equivalent to a boss in the civilian world. Bosses in general still have to answer to a higher boss. It taught me how to talk to people. I can't talk down to them any old way I want. Treat people with respect and communicate with them.

Business woman

After serving in the US Army, I started two failed small businesses. The first one was a small home-based sewing business called “Custom Fitting Designs”. We lived in government living quarters. My husband still served in the army by this time. I created custom clothes for a small clientele. An officer’s wife brought me her fabric and sewing pattern for a formal dress to wear at an Officer's Ball with her husband.

Learn How to Single Crochet Stitch Step By Step Beginner Course Lesson


Learning how to single crochet stitch is one of the most popular stitches used in crochet. This is a beginner lesson to create beautiful patterns and textures. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to do it step by step. This video shows you how to single crochet stitch step-by-step. Watch our video on how to single crochet stitch and learn how to create beautiful designs.


0:00 - Intro How to Single Crochet

0:11 - Insert your crochet hook.

0:15 - Under the horizontal 2 loops.

0:18 - Yarn over.

0:23 - Pull the yarn through.

0:25 - 2 loops sit on your crochet hook

0:29 - Yarn over.

0:31 - Pull through the 2 loops.

0:40 - Repeat

1:28 - You completed the row.

How to Increase A Single Crochet Stitch With This Easy Technique


How to increase a single crochet in crochet? We've got some great tips on how to increase single crochet stitches. You're going to love these easy increases for single crochet stitch. We've got an easy step-by-step tutorial here!


00:00 - The process of increasing a single crochet stitch begins. The first step is to insert the crochet hook into the space underneath the two loops. After pulling the yarn through the space from the back to the front, you'll have two loops on your crochet hook. Yarn over and pull through both loops. Repeat this action in the same space.


01:08 - Having increased stitches in the row, the work is turned to the back side. Then a chain is made, followed by a single crochet stitch in the first space. In the following stitch, single crochets are worked into every space. The stitches appear tighter as two of them sit inside a single space.


02:05 - As the work continues, the row gets completed. Afterward, the work is turned back to the front side, showcasing a well-emphasized pattern of stitches.


02:28 - The tutorial moves to showing how to crochet a ruffled edge for a rippling effect by repeating certain steps.


04:37, this ruffled row is completed.

How to Work the Double Crochet Stitch Beginner Course Lesson


In this video tutorial, I'll show you how to work the double crochet stitch. You'll be able to create beautiful crochet projects like these ones. Watch our free video tutorials on how to work the double crochets stitch.


0:00 - The introduction begins with an explanation on how to double crochet. This covers all the basic techniques that will be used throughout the tutorial.


0:25 - Here, the focus is on executing the yarn over, pulling through loops, and repeating these steps. This segment provides details about the actual double crochet process.


1:30 - At this point, the tutorial covers how to turn the work and chain stitches. It then begins discussing how to double crochet into the first space of the new row.


2:14 - The tutorial concludes with the completion of a row and a discussion about the emphasis of the worked row when working on the back side.

How to Increase Double Crochet Stitch


0:00 - Introduction and first stitch of a new row.


0:06 - Start with chain 2, double crochet 1, and yarn pulling technique from back to front underneath horizontal double strands, creating 2 loops.


0:09 - Continue with yarn over actions and loop management. You'll have 3 loops on your hook and will pull through first 2 loops and then the last 2.


0:14 - The same step is repeated in the same space, contributing to the shape and size of the row, making it wider than the previous one.


0:20 - Repeat of all the steps in other spaces, turning of the work, chain 2 and reinforcement of the increased double crochet stitches.


0:24 - Demonstration of double crochet in first space, observing the flowy look from the front, and yarn over technique with a double crochet in each space.


0:33 - Further progress by turning the work again, ending with the readiness to repeat the same 2 steps or proceed with just double crochet in each row.


0:47 - Conclusion of the tutorial summarizing the techniques used to create the double crochet stitch and mentioning future possibilities for repeating the steps or opting for double crochet in each row.

00:00 - Introduction to Twisting in the Chain

  • Addressed the issue of twisting in the chain and offered a solution to prevent it, by focusing on the chain throughout the process and turning it gently to avoid twists.


00:43 - Creating the Mobius Chain

  • Detailed the steps for creating a Mobius chain, including the half twist, crocheting in the top V's, and the importance of the movement in a circular or spiral flow.


02:59 - Single Crocheting in a Twisted Chain

  • Outlined the process of single crocheting in a twisted chain, the importance of identification and crocheting in the top horizontal loop, and the need for the chain to be twisted as the work progresses.


05:12 - Conclusion and Tips

  • Highlighted the beauty and uniqueness of the Mobius Twist, the importance of using the tail as a guide, and encouraged practice to master the technique.

The video, "How to Crochet the Ribbed Stitch in the Round" by . It uses 2 strands of worsted weight yarn and a 6.50mm crochet hook. The tutorial explains how to create a chain, make a magic circle with single crochet stitches, and build the work in rounds. It emphasizes on techniques like yarn over, pull through loops, counting stitches, and slip stitch. A front post is created by inserting the crochet hook around the vertical post and using yarn overs to create loops. The video walks through creating multiple rounds, each time highlighting how to create the ribbed stitch effect, maintaining a flat circle without rippling. Each round involves repeating the same steps and not increasing stitches, hence forming a V shape with the stitches.

Chain stitches are one of the most basic crochet techniques. In this tutorial, we'll show you how to do them. You don't have to be an expert crocheter to master these stitches. These stitches are easy to learn and fun to practice.


Chain Stitch Crocheting Techniques

00:00 - Intro


00:05 - How to Start a Crochet Project

⋅ To start a crochet project, you'll need to use the chain stitch.

⋅ Before beginning any project, you need to take the tail from your yarn skin.

⋅ Hold your tail with your last two fingers' ring finger and pinky.

⋅ Hold the crochet hook with any crochet hook and wrap the yarn around it twice.

⋅ Now you will see two wrapped around single strands.

⋅ With the yarn already in the hook, you will pull it through the second wrap around.

⋅ Now, the yarn is already wrapped around once on your crochet hook.


01:07 - The Chain Stitch

⋅ Yarn over and pull through the loop.

⋅ Yarn over again and pull through the loop.

⋅ Yarn over and pull through the loop again.

⋅ Continue to do so until your project tells you how many chains to make.


01:37 - Visualizing the Chain Stitch

Here's how it looks so far, notice the top has V shapes whereas the back has bumps.

shop, download, crochet it today, enjoy!

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Crochet Chain Twisting - How to Half Twist and Single Crochet Into It

Single Crochet Stitch Technique and Joining Ends Make Beautiful Beanie Hat

The Crochet Chain - Look at your Half Twisted Chain Ends on the Front and Back Sides

Crocheting the Ombretta Cloche Hat with Flower and Leaf Using Thick Bulky Yarn. Can You Do It?

CROCHET HALF TWIST CHAIN

What is a Mobius Strip Crochet Difference?

Crochet Projects - How to Prepare Your Mobius Style Hat for a Crochet Edge

How to Understand When Crocheting on the Mobius for Both Sides of Crochet

Crochet Designs - Accidentally Twisting the Starting Crochet Chain

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2 Ways How to Single Crochet a Magic Circle

How to Increase Crochet Stitches in the Round in a Magic Circle - 2 Ways

How to Crochet the Second Round After the Magic Circle Fast!

How to Increase Crochet Stitches in the Round in a Magic Circle - 2 Ways

How To Double Crochet a Shell Stitch Around a Vertical Front Post -

How To Stabilize It With a Single Crochet

How to Increase Stitches in Crochet

Crochet Shaping Techniques for a Hat

"A decade and a half ago, a woman named Anne from Pennsylvania asked this Texas-based craftsman to create a unique hat - one that bloomed like a rose. The journey of this custom-made hat, from concept to creation, is a story of creativity, patience, and passion.


In the vast expanse of creativity, ideas grow like wildflowers. They can be plentiful and overwhelming, but the beauty is in the picking and pruning. This rose hat was one such idea, sprouting from the fertile ground of Anne's imagination and nurtured by my skill and enthusiasm.


The hat, crafted meticulously over two weeks, is more than just a headpiece. It's a rose in full bloom, a testament to the beauty that springs from collaboration and dedication. It wasn't an easy journey - there were countless revisions and adjustments, several mailed packages of carefully selected yarn, and numerous conversations about the perfect length and weight of the hat. But the end result, as Anne exclaimed, was simply "BEAUTIFUL!!!"


This creative journey spanned miles and time zones, from Texas to Pennsylvania, thanks to the magic of Etsy. It's a testament to the power of connection, the beauty of creativity, and the joy of seeing an idea come to life. From the pink rose hat on the left, to the stunning rose-shaped hat worn by Anne, it's clear that when we embrace creativity and communication, the possibilities are endless.

*Unraveling The Art of Crochet: A Complete Guide For Beginners


Dive into the world of crochet, learn about its benefits, master the art of creating patterns, discover essential tools, and understand how to become a successful crochet designer.


What is Crochet and What are the Benefits of Using it?

Crochet is simply the art of slipping a loop through another loop with a hook to create a fabric-like surface. It's not only easy but also forgiving; if you make a mistake, you can easily unravel your work and start over.


This is where crochet has an advantage over knitting. Fixing a mistake in knitting can be tricky, especially if you have a dropped stitch. But with a crochet hook, you can easily pull a loop through another loop and fix the problem. Want to learn more about this? Check out this helpful guide on [Ravelry] (www.ravelry.com.


A Beginner's Guide to Creating Your Own Patterns

Starting with crochet can seem daunting with all the yarns, crochet hook sizes, stitches, and abbreviations to remember. But don't worry, websites like [AllFreeCrochet](www.allfreecrochet.com) have beginner-friendly patterns to help you get started.


Crochet Tools & Materials You Need

Besides crochet hooks and yarn, there are other supplies that can make your crochet experience easier, such as gauge counters, tapestry needles, stitch markers, and digital row counters. [Crochet.com](www.crochet.com) has a great selection of crochet supplies.


How To Become A Successful Crochet Designer

Becoming a crochet designer requires knowledge of techniques, crochet hook sizes, yarn textures, and stitches. You also need to develop your own style and build an audience. As you progress, consider selling your patterns on platforms like Etsy, Shopify, Ravelry, or Craftsy.


Conclusion

The journey to becoming a successful crochet designer requires time, patience, and a love for crochet. Keep practicing, keep learning, and you'll get there. Stay tuned for more articles that will complement your crochet journey.

Wonderful and helpful crochet blogs to look


1. [Moogly Blog] (https://www.mooglyblog.com) - A great source of crochet patterns and inspiration, including baby sweaters, hats, and more.


2. [Repeat Crafter Me Blogs] (https://www.repeatcrafterme.com) - Sarah's patterns are inspirational and colorful. There are fantastic ideas for holidays, for kids to wear and accessories.

3. [TL Yarn Crafts Blogging](https://www.tlycblog.com) - Toni’s designs are delightful, like the Veronica Cocoon Cardi, an oversized blanket sweater.


4. [Hopeful Honey Crochet Bloggers] (https://www.hopefulhoney.com) - Olivia is where makers gather to make crochet cool again and to change the world one stitch at a time.


5. [Whistle and Ivy] (https://www.whistleandivy.com) - Bethany’s passion for crochet clearly shows the dedication she has to creating so many beautiful patterns.


6. [All About Ami] (https://www.allaboutami.com) - Stephanie loves to crochet Amigurumi. She’s been making them since she was 10, and the love of making them has grown stronger.


7. [The Stitchin Mommy] (https://www.thestitchinmommy.com) - Amy Ramnarine is a freelance crochet designer and the owner/blogger behind The Stitchin’ Mommy. She has been crocheting since 2009 and knitting on and off since 2010

Pink Flower

Unleash Your Creativity: The Power of Originality in Crochet Designs!


Say no to patterns and yes to authenticity! Discover how creating your own crochet designs can add a touch of uniqueness to your creations, enhancing your skills and enriching your craft experience."


In the dynamic world of crochet, patterns often serve as the roadmap guiding us on our crafting journeys. These recurring themes, borrowed from the French term 'patron', are templates or models that can be used to create things or parts of a thing【0†source】. It's not uncommon for fellow crafters to inquire, "Did you use a pattern for that hat?" My answer, invariably, is "No."


Why no patterns, you ask? For me, each hat is a personal exploration, a chance to pioneer new creations rather than replicate existing ones. I relish the opportunity to create each lump and bump, each sequence of cable stitches. I yearn to be the first to weave that specific sequence into existence!


Mass production, in my eyes, strips an item of its authenticity. Except, perhaps, if you were to request a reproduction with a different yarn type, prompting a reshaping of the familiar into the unfamiliar. Consider my pink flower hat, for instance. A thinner pink yarn yields a different effect than a thicker, velvety one. The rose appears stumpier, the rows of rose swirls ascending in height. Such transformations hardly seem like mass production anymore!


Now, consider the act of following patterns. Here, you're tracing the steps of a designer who came before you. For beginners, this repetition of original patterns can be a helpful learning tool. However, the truly adventurous will soon yearn to tweak, to twist, to make it their own. And voila! It becomes your design. That's the beauty of authenticity.


If you're wondering where to start on your journey towards originality, there are numerous resources available. You can check out sites like Mama In A Stitch, which is a treasure trove of easy and timeless crochet projects and patterns that can spark your creativity. If you're looking for a wide variety of yarns to experiment with, Lion Brand Yarns offers a vast collection to choose from, helping you diversify your creations.


The world of crochet is yours to explore. Let your creativity run wild and make something that is uniquely yours. After all, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of looking at a finished piece and knowing it's entirely your creation. Happy crocheting!

Hey there, crochet lovers! Are you tired of finishing a project only to find it doesn't fit as you hoped? Today, we're tackling a cornerstone of crochet—measuring circumference. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, this guide is your go-to resource for ensuring your crochet projects fit like a glove.


This blog post is designed for crochet artists at all skill levels. If you're looking to elevate your crochet game by mastering the art of measuring, you're in the right place.


What Will You Learn?

By the end of this guide, you'll know how to accurately measure the circumference for any crochet project, from hats to bags and beyond.


Where and When to Apply These Tips?

This invaluable skill is applicable to all your crochet endeavors, whether you're working from the comfort of your home or attending a crochet workshop.


Why is Measuring Circumference Crucial?

Getting the circumference right is the difference between a project you're proud of and one that ends up in the 'oops' pile. Accurate measurements ensure you don't waste time or materials.

How-To: Measuring Circumference in Crochet


Tools You'll Need

- Measuring tape

- Crochet project in progress

- Flat surface

- Notepad and pen


Step-by-Step Guide

1. **Lay it Out**: Place your crochet item on a flat surface.

2. **Find the Widest Part**: Identify the widest point of your project.

3. **Wrap and Measure**: Use the measuring tape to wrap around the widest point, keeping it snug but not tight.

4. **Note it Down**: Write down the measurement.

5. **Double-Check**: Always measure twice for accuracy.


Quick Summary

Learn how to measure circumference in crochet with this comprehensive guide. From the tools you'll need to a step-by-step walkthrough, we've got you covered.---


Get More Patterns and Guides

For more detailed crochet patterns and how-to guides, check out my Etsy shop, [Strawberry Couture]

etsy.com/shop/strawberrycouture



Final Thoughts

Accurate circumference measurement is a game-changer in the world of crochet. We hope this guide serves you well. For more crochet wisdom, head over to [Crochet Play]

crochetplay.com


Happy crocheting!

The Art of Crocheted Texture: Elevate Your Projects with Stunning Stitches


This blog post is for crochet enthusiasts of all levels who want to explore the world of textured stitches to add depth and interest to their projects.


The goal is to introduce you to various crochet stitches that create texture, helping you elevate your crochet projects from simple to stunning.


This information can be used in a variety of crochet projects, from blankets and scarves to hats and bags.


You can use these textured stitches in your next crochet project or experiment with them to revamp an existing piece.


Textured stitches can add a unique touch to your crochet items, making them more appealing and intricate.


Textured Stitches to Try


1. **Bobble Stitch**: Creates little "bobbles" or bumps in your fabric. Great for adding a 3D effect.

2. **Front Post Double Crochet (FPDC)**: Adds a raised ridge to your fabric, perfect for ribbing.

3. **Puff Stitch**: Similar to the bobble stitch but softer and puffier, ideal for baby blankets.



Pattern Details

- **Summary**: This post introduces three textured stitches.

- **Materials**: Varies depending on the project.

- **Stitches**: Bobble, FPDC, Puff.

Warm Up Your Winter with Cozy Crochet Creations


This blog post is for anyone looking to stay warm and stylish during the chilly winter months through the art of crocheting.


The goal is to inspire you to create cozy crochet items that not only keep you warm but also add a touch of handmade charm to your winter wardrobe.


These crochet projects are perfect for personal use or as thoughtful, handmade gifts for loved ones.


Ideal for the winter season, these crochet items can be used from the first snowfall to the last frost.


Crocheting your own winter accessories allows you to customize colors, textures, and sizes while creating something functional and beautiful.


This post is concise, informative, and aims to spark your creativity, complete with project ideas and related keywords.


Cozy Crochet Projects for Winter


1. **Chunky Scarves**: Using bulky yarn and large hooks, you can whip up a warm scarf in no time.

2. **Beanies and Hats**: Opt for stitches that offer good insulation like the puff stitch or the waffle stitch.

3. **Mittens and Gloves**: Keep your fingers toasty with snug-fitting crochet mittens.


Pattern Details

- **Summary**: This post offers three project ideas for winter.

- **Materials**: Bulky yarn, large crochet hooks.

- **Stitches**: Puff stitch, waffle stitch.

Crocheting for All: Tips for Beginners and Experienced Crafters Alike


This blog post is designed for both novice and seasoned crocheters looking to enhance their skills and enjoy the craft at any level.


The aim is to provide valuable insights and tips that cater to both beginners and experienced crocheters, helping each group to grow in their crochet journey.


These tips can be applied to a wide range of crochet projects, from simple dishcloths to intricate afghans.


Whether you're just starting out or have been crocheting for years, these tips are timeless and can be used at any stage of your crochet journey.


To improve your crochet skills, make your projects more polished, and enjoy the craft even more.


In a straightforward, engaging manner with a focus on practical advice and related keywords.


Tips for Beginners

1. **Start Simple**: Choose easy patterns and work your way up.

2. **Quality Over Quantity**: Invest in good quality yarn and hooks.

3. **Practice, Practice, Practice**: The more you crochet, the better you'll get.


Tips for Experienced Crocheters

1. **Challenge Yourself**: Try complex patterns or stitches you've never done before.

2. **Teach Others**: Sharing your skills can be rewarding and also help you improve.

3. **Stay Updated**: Keep an eye on new techniques, patterns, and tools in the crochet world.


Pattern Details

- **Summary**: This post offers tips for both beginner and experienced crocheters.

- **Materials**: Varies depending on your level and project.

- **Stitches**: From basic to advanced, depending on your skill level.


Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, there's always room for growth and enjoyment in this wonderful craft. Happy crocheting!