Hand Crochet: A Stitch In Time

Sometimes in our fast-paced, homogenized, dry-thru, mass-produced world we forget to stop and notice the simple mastery of hand-craftsmanship.  Hand-crochet lace became popular in Europe during the 1800's but some theorize it evolved from traditional practices from more exotic cultures such as South America.

Every season at Peruvian Connection we showcase a collection of hand-crochet designs uniquely and masterfully crafted by our Peruvian artisans.  Each meticulously crocheted design is a master-work of minute stitches reminiscent of the Old World craftsmanship that fueled its popularity through Europe in the 1800's.

Take a look at this indelible craft for yourself:
Wine and Roses Cardgian
Savoy Crochet Cardgian
Cabbage Rose Cardigan
Floribunda Pullover
Cottage Cardigan

To find a collection of hand crocheted accessories simply enter the word "crochet" in the key-word search box in the upper right hand corner of the site.

The Architecture of Art-Knits

"Ornamentation is the principal part of architecture, considered as a subject of fine art."
John Ruskin, True and Beautiful - Sculpture

There are times when I am fortunate enough to see the elemental design graphics for our art-knit masterpieces while still on the drawing board.   I cannot help but appreciate not only the artistic talents of our designers but also the ability to design architecturally a wearable piece of art. 

For example, our Handknit Corset Tunic is exceptionally difficult to render as the front exhibits a knit latticework pattern with hand embroidered climbing vines and flowers.  The bas-relief dimensional cabling reminds me of the sculptural temple carvings seen in Indian architecture. Just as those impressive stone works exhibit the talent of its designer and the masterwork of the stone mason, each meticulous stitch of our knit sculpture was also mapped and crafted by gifted hands.

Last minute knitting

(Right - a holiday gift knitted with strips of fabric)

There is just something special about handmade presents. Every year around this time, I'm inspired to knit scarves for holiday gifts. And every year, I barely have enough time to knit one scarf, let alone several...but this year I've discovered a simple, fun, and fast technique: knitting with strips of fabric instead of yarn. I "discovered" this technique on Thanksgiving when I was at my parents' house without yarn or needles. I was yearning to knit. The urge was so strong that I sent my brother-in-law to Walmart for knitting needles ("the largest you can find" - he brought back size 17, about 1/2-inch in diameter). Mom provided some cotton blend fabric, and my 6-year-old nephew helped tear it into 3/4-inch strips. I tied each strip together at the ends and rolled it into a ball. After a couple false starts, I found that a simple rib stitch worked best for the material. In about 3 hours (maybe less because of snack breaks), I knitted a surprisingly soft, lofty, and warm scarf. Mom sent me home with more fabric and a request for a knitted vest.

One note about this technique: it takes a lot of fabric! Two yards roughly completes a 4-foot square area. It's a great way to use up fabric that's gathering dust, plus create treasured gifts...in time for the holidays.

If you love handmade gifts, you might like these unique natural fiber creations from Peruvian Connection:

• Sakiori Silk Scarf
• Handwoven Watana Bracelets
• Chahuaytiri Bag

Knitting: Lessons Learned

(Right - My first scarf!)

If you are like me, after browsing through the beautiful array of art-knits offered at Peruvian Connection, you may become inspired to make something for yourself. I have some hard learned "purls" of wisdom for the new knitter:

Beginner Knitting Tip #1: Make a scarf. A scarf is a practical first choice because one size fits all and it becomes useful in a short amount of time. It's a low-risk way to hone basic stitches and experiment with new ones as you develop your skill. I recommend a skinny scarf in a stockinnette stitch.

Beginner Knitting Tip #2: Knit something for yourself first. It's inspiring to wear your own handiwork. Once you're hooked, you'll produce more than enough scarves (or hats, or socks) for your friends and relatives.

Beginner Knitting Tip #3: Choose yarn you love. You'll be looking at it for a long time. Buying cheap yarn to "practice" with is fine but choose spectacular yarn for your project and you will stay motivated and actually wear what you make.

Beginner Knitting Tip #4: Heed this cautionary tale. A friend asked a yarn store clerk to help her pick out the perfect yarn for her first scarf project. When she got to the register with two lovely skeins, her bill was over $70! She was too embarrassed to tell the enthusiastic clerk she no longer wanted it.

Knitting: One of Life's Simple Pleasures

With Fall fast approaching, sweaters come out of the closet and my thoughts turn to one of my favorite winter pastimes, knitting. Since I work for a knit wear company you may be asking yourself, "Why bother?...Just buy something!" Trust me, I buy my share of Peruvian sweaters. The truth is that Peruvian Connection sparked my interest in knitting because of the parade of beautiful hand-knits that I see day in and day out. So I asked my mother-in-law to teach me and I made a really mediocre scarf! However, I was hooked. For me the actual craft of knitting is an enjoyable form of insanity that I can't help but indulge for myself.

After knitting for a couple years, I have gleaned a few hard-learned pearls of wisdom that I am eager to share with the budding knitter. So if you also feel the urge to learn the craft of knitting this season, then join me over the next few weeks and we will expand our skills together.