DIY Done Right: Crocheting Is Now Cool

If we say the word: “crochet,” do you instead hear: “grandma’s nursing home”? You don’t have to anymore, because crocheting is now cool and trendy. If urban hipsters are doing it (which they are, in droves), then you safely can, too. So if you have a hankering to pick up a crochet needle and whip up something hip, these simple, stylish projects may just become your new hobby this summer:

•    Granny-a-Go-Go: The Granny Square (apologies for using the G-word again) is the easiest and most basic of crochet patterns. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be piecing squares into vibrant pillow covers and afghans in no time. Learn how in this straightforward tutorial from crochet whiz and author Linda Permann.

photo: Attic24

•    Flower Brooch: Teeny crochet flowers and leaves are the perfect adornment for a hat, bag, or jacket lapel. Lucy from Attic24 has a simple lesson that’s perfect for a beginner.

photo: rose hip

•    Petal Power: Once you’ve got the granny square down, you can take on these colorful flower squares from Beata of rose hip. Piece them into a gorgeous pillow, coverlet, or purse.

photo: CraftyPod

•    Wired: Yarn isn’t the only thing you can crochet. Wire works just as well, and yields pretty jewelry like this Wire Flower Pendant from Diane Gilleand’s CraftyPod.

These are just a few projects to get you started. To connect other crocheters online, head to Crochet Me.