Crochet Crochet Finishing Techniques 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the main advantage of the mattress stitch when seaming crochet pieces?
- It creates a very bulky, decorative raised seam
- It produces an almost invisible, flat seam on the right side (Correct answer)
- It adds extra stretch and elasticity to the join
- It requires no yarn needle or sewing tool
Correct answer: It produces an almost invisible, flat seam on the right side
The mattress stitch creates a nearly invisible seam by working between the edge stitches on the right side, making it ideal for garments where a seamless appearance is desired.
Question 2: What is the purpose of a 'single crochet border' added around a finished project?
- Adding a row of chains for a lacy decorative effect
- Working single crochet stitches around the perimeter to stabilize and neaten edges (Correct answer)
- Creating a picot point along the top edge only
- Closing the final round with slip stitches
Correct answer: Working single crochet stitches around the perimeter to stabilize and neaten edges
A single crochet border is worked around all edges to stabilize raw or uneven edges and give the finished piece a clean, professional appearance.
Question 3: Which fiber type is steam blocking most commonly used for?
- Acrylic yarn that cannot be wet blocked in water (Correct answer)
- 100% merino wool that felts easily
- Silk yarn that loses luster when wet
- Cotton yarn that shrinks in warm water
Correct answer: Acrylic yarn that cannot be wet blocked in water
Steam blocking is effective for acrylic and synthetic yarns because the steam can relax and set the fibers without requiring submersion in water.
Question 4: What is a 'crab stitch' (reverse single crochet) border commonly used for?
- Adding a firm, twisted decorative edging worked in the opposite direction (Correct answer)
- Seaming two flat pieces together invisibly
- Weaving in all loose yarn ends at once
- Adding extra rows to increase a project's total length
Correct answer: Adding a firm, twisted decorative edging worked in the opposite direction
Crab stitch is worked from left to right (opposite the usual direction), creating a firm, twisted, rope-like decorative edge on the perimeter of a project.
Question 5: Why should you always crochet and block a gauge swatch before starting a garment project?
- To use up leftover yarn before purchasing new yarn
- To practice a new stitch pattern for fun
- To ensure your tension matches the pattern so the finished size is accurate (Correct answer)
- To determine how much yarn will be needed for the border edging
Correct answer: To ensure your tension matches the pattern so the finished size is accurate
A gauge swatch confirms your stitch and row tension matches the pattern's specified gauge, which is critical for garments and sized items where dimensions matter.
Question 6: Which seaming method is most recommended for joining granny squares in a blanket?
- Mattress stitch sewn through the back post
- Slip stitch seam or flat join worked with a crochet hook (Correct answer)
- Whipstitch using a contrasting color as a decorative accent only
- Grafting with a tapestry needle
Correct answer: Slip stitch seam or flat join worked with a crochet hook
Slip stitch seams and flat joins are popular for granny squares because they create flat, even seams without adding excessive bulk between motifs.
Question 7: What does 'tacking' mean when finishing an amigurumi (crocheted stuffed toy)?
- Adding extra rounds to increase the size of the body
- Sewing safety eyes through the crocheted fabric before stuffing
- Securing separately crocheted parts like ears or limbs to the main body with a few stitches (Correct answer)
- Blocking the finished toy flat with pins
Correct answer: Securing separately crocheted parts like ears or limbs to the main body with a few stitches
Tacking means using a yarn needle to sew a few anchor stitches that attach separate crocheted parts such as arms, legs, or ears to the stuffed body.
Crochet Crochet Finishing Techniques 2
What is the main advantage of the mattress stitch when seaming crochet pieces?