| Hello crocheters, | | | | Use either your crochet hook or yarn needle to |
| Haven't we all wondered if what we are doing is right | | | | weave in ends. |
| or not? Though the question is appropriate to crochet | | | | • For smooth fine yarns especially those |
| as well as our others areas of our life, right now I’m | | | | made from silk, you may want to knot the ends so |
| specifically talking about innumerous items we love to | | | | they do not slip out of the pattern causing it to |
| crochet. No matter what the level of our expertise, | | | | completely unravel. Some crocheters first knot, then |
| there's always that little doubt at the back of our | | | | weave in and then tie the two ends together again. |
| minds. How to best finish a crochet pattern is probably | | | | Sticking the tiny ends with waterproof fabric glue |
| one such query everyone has. | | | | further prevents the yarn from fraying and sliding out. |
| Different people finish their crochet projects differently. | | | | Before making a knot, pay attention to the type of |
| Some tie a knot, others weave in, some others weave | | | | knot you make. A bulky uneven knot is sure to |
| in and then knot, while few just glue the loose ends in. | | | | standout in delicate and simple patterns including those |
| Some crocheters follow a particular technique out of | | | | of doilies and laces. |
| habit, whereas others experiment and do what is | | | | • If you are making a scarf or a blanket, you |
| required. | | | | may want to add a fringe or edging to finish the |
| One thing is for sure. Whatever you do, the primary | | | | project, another way of finishing a crochet pattern. |
| objective is to prevent unraveling of the loose tail ends | | | | Many patterns for fringes and edgings are available |
| of the yarn. With this aim to be accomplished, consider | | | | online. Most crochet books too have a section on |
| the following when finishing a pattern: | | | | fringes and edgings. |
| • For worsted chunky rough yarns, it's okay to | | | | • Some finishing techniques are described at: |
| just weave in the ends and crochet on them. They | | | | • If you want, hone your skills from the book, |
| rarely unravel. Instead, with regular use and wash they | | | | Interweave's Compendium of Finishing Techniques: |
| become well adjusted in the surrounding stitches. To | | | | Crochet, Embroidery, Knitting, Knotting, Weaving by |
| be on the safe side however, weave in a longer length | | | | Naomi McEneely. The book is available at: |
| of yarn especially when changing colors. I myself have | | | | You can also look for it on eBay to get a good deal. |
| been doing so for quite a long time and haven't heard | | | | Finally, try various finishing techniques, see what works |
| any complaints till now about any of my crocheted | | | | for you and do what is required. |
| products. | | | | Happy finishing your crochet projects! |