Afghan-Making An Enjoyable Hobby

Whether knitting or crocheting, all needlecrafters at one time or other have made an afghan. Some work exclusively on such projects. Generally afghans are easy to make and require no shaping.

The name for these useful home decor pieces varies. They are sometimes called cover-ups, throws, lap robes or blankets, depending on their size and use. The American Heritage Dictionary describes an afghan as: “A coverlet or shawl of wool, knitted or crocheted in colorful geometric designs.” Whatever they are called, we all know afghan-making is enjoyable.

When you look for an afghan pattern, keep in mind some special considerations. The first, of course, is whether you want to knit or crochet the piece. Some patterns combine both crafts, such as those that feature a knitted main “body” and crocheted edges.

The next step is to choose a suitable style. There are elements to bear in mind when making a pattern choice. Begin with how much time you want to spend on your project. If you want to make a quick afghan, look for one that is worked on large needles or a big hook. Some are made with several strands of yarn held together.

If you want to make an heirloom, you may choose fine yarn and appropriately sized needles or hooks.

The finished fabric is another consideration. Do you want a warm, thick fabric or a lacy, open one? The pattern stitch, type of needlework and yarn choice all play a part in this decision. What you will plan to do with the finished product may help you decide. If you are making an afghan for a cold climate, a heavier fabric is more appropriate. A lacy piece would be ideal when used to top a comforter on a bed.

Working the afghan as a whole piece or making it in sections, motifs or squares is something else to think about. Having sections makes the project portable, but ultimately all the pieces must be joined, which adds to the finishing time.

Color choices are another decision. Some afghans are worked with only one or two colors, but bright, colorful afghans are always popular. The ultimate use for the afghan can help you with this decision.

When choosing colors, you will also want to think about a yarn choice. A simple, easy-care acrylic is probably the most popular yarn used in afghan-making. It is available in a wide range of yarns and often in variegated colors. It is also inexpensive and long-wearing. Elegant afghans using luxury yarns have become increasingly fashionable.

The pattern-stitch choice depends on how you plan to work the afghan. Are you looking for a project that you can pick up and put down or one that will teach you new stitches? Both are satisfying for different reasons.

To get started on a fun afghan-making project, we have a special offer for you - our “Afghan Bargain Kit.”

This kit has a colorful assortment of yarns hand-picked by our designers, and two patterns - one is knit and the other crocheted. Either are perfect beginner projects. Both are worked from side to side in very easy stitches with simple color changes made every row to create a fringe on both ends.

These quick-to-make, rainbow afghans are worked at a large gauge using approximately a size 10 needle or size I crochet hook. Our special value pack of worsted-weight acrylic yarn and the two patterns are $14.95 (includes postage and handling). Please let us choose color combinations for you.

Send your request for the afghan grab bags to The NeedleWorks, P.O. Box 419148, Kansas City, MO 64141, or call (800) 873-9537.

MEMO: To obtain directions for making the Fair Isle Cardigan, send your request for Leaflet No. 030396 with $2 and a long, stamped, self-addressed envelope to: The NeedleWorks, The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 419148, Kansas City, MO 64141. Or you may order Kit No. 030396 by sending a check or money order for $43.95 to The NeedleWorks at the same address. Kit price includes shipping charges, full instructions and worsted-weight acrylic yarn in rust with light green, dark green, gold, black and coral. Buttons not included. For kit orders only, you may call 7 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays to (800) 873-9537.

This sidebar appeared with the story: Fair Isle cardigan A multicolored Fair Isle pattern makes up an eye-catching knit cardigan sweater. Worked from a simple graph, this beautiful pattern uses six different colors of worsted-weight yarn. The classic shape is enhanced by front pockets and six buttons. Finished chest measurements are 42, 46 and 50 inches.