One of the techniques I have been using constantly for my designs is tapestry crochet. This allows you to crochet with one yarn while carrying one or more additional threads which are alternated for color-work. And it can also be used to create a more resistant crocheted piece or a special design by carrying a thicker thread or a cord.
Whether you use it for combining two different materials or mixing color this tutorial contains some basic advice on how to work with this method. I have only made it with single crochet (UK double crochet), in the round, in a spiral way and mixing two threads only (either for creating a special texture and for making a drawing). So this guide will be based upon those settings.
Usually, the first row is made using the main thread only. You could add a second material right from the start but as you crochet in the chains in the first row it’s less complicated if you work without an additional thread. Once you get to row 2 your hook inserts easier into the stitches and it’s a good time to add a second thread.
Start the first stitch of the 2nd row. Insert the hook in the stitch, yarn over and pull through the stitch. Now it’s time to take the second thread leaving a 2″/ 5 cm strand at the beginning. Place it over the stitch right in between your hook and the yarn you are currently working with, yarn over with your crocheting thread and close the stitch. You have made a single crochet wrapping the additional yarn inside.
You will keep on wrapping the 2nd yarn from now on. Insert the hook in the next stitch going under the second thread, yarn over and pull through the stitch, yarn over with your main thread and close the stitch.
If what you are wrapping is a thicker material follow the same steps above, just pull enough of your main yarn to wrap your cord to avoid squeezing it.
You will be working with two yarns throughout your whole work or otherwise stated in the pattern. You will see the weaving feels a bit stronger because you have a second material lying underneath, this also helps holding shapes together better.
One important recommendation when working with two yarns is that there is no need to tighten or pull the thread that is being wrapped. It will be easier if you just let it lay straight over your work. This will help you get a more uniform shape and size.
Now, if you are working with two colors to make a drawing there are some important tips for this technique.
1. You will eventually have to switch colors. You have a main color and a second color, I usually call the main color the one I started my work with and my second color the one I started wrapping from row 2. To change from one color to the other you must finish the last stitch before the switch with the other color. But you have to follow specific steps for both changes to avoid threads from getting tangled throughout your work.
– When you change from main color to second color lift second color strand in front of the main color, yarn over with second color and finish the stitch. You have finished the last stitch of main color with the second color and you are now ready to single crochet the necessary stitches with second color wrapping main color thread.
– When you change from second color to main color put main color strand behind second color, yarn over with main color and finish the stitch. You have finished the last stitch of second color with the main color and you are now ready to single crochet the necessary stitches with main color wrapping second color thread again.
If you follow these steps you will be able to crochet smoothly and happy without worrying about thread mess.
2. If you are following a chart for color work I also suggest you place a cardboard, a piece of paper or anything that guides you through working each row. I recommend placing this just above the row you are crocheting, seeing the stitches of rows below makes it easier to locate the part of the drawing you are working on and when a color change is needed.
3. The working yarn will always wrap the other so you won’t have any floating strands on the wrong side of your work.
Once you finish your work you will have to weave in all ends. If you are using two yarns that are equal in thickness a smaller crochet hook is very helpful for hiding the remaining ends through the stitches. If your second material is a thick cord you may need help from some clamps to pull the cord though lower rows. And if there is a big difference in width, crochet a small strap or piece that works as a patch to cover the cord inside your work.
Tapestry crochet technique is full of possibilities and these are some recommendations for getting to know it, working with it and eventually falling in love with it just as it happened to me. Enjoy your crocheting!
Thank you! Excellent tutorial on Tapestry Crochet. In fact, this is the best, most understandable tutorial I have found on the subject. Thank you very much. You accent is enchanting and adds to the enjoyment of the video.
Thanks so much for this kind comment Kathleen, really appreciate such detailed feedback on the tutorial, glad you like it and that you found it clear 🙂 Have a wonderful day!