Crochet is a process by which interlocking of loops made of thread, yarn, or wisps of other materials or fabric is done to produce a fabric of its own. It is derived from a French word called ‘crochet’ that signifies a small hook.
One may understand crochet to be a form of knitting, but there is much difference between crochet work and knitwork. Apart from the equipment used, the procedure of both also varies on a large extent.
In crochet, every stitch is completed fully before the next one is begun while in knitwork, a number of stitches are kept open at the same time.
Starting from clothing to daily use objects, a number of items can be made using crochet. This includes scarves, beanies, cowls, slippers, sweaters, potholders, cellphone covers, and even swimsuits.
Most of the daily items add an aesthetic appeal to one’s room. Crochet as a fashion statement makes a mark as embroidery, crochet work and knitwear is always a hot favorite amongst all.
Crochet rugs, on the other hand, are crochet items that have a pretty and unique appearance. They add a boho vibe to any room they are placed in. Otherwise, they are pretty functional as they are made of thick fabric and soak moisture and water well.
Thus, crochet rugs work as a decorative yet highly functional item in one’s house. They are easy to make and last long. Crochet rugs with gorgeous patterns and designs can also function as a carpet in the living room or a rug for the bedroom.
Uses Of Crochet Rugs
Crochet rugs have multiple applications. They are pretty-looking items but you should not be fooled by their exterior. They are rather handy and offer high functionality in terms of usability.
- They are pretty and decorative. As mentioned earlier, they add a boho-chic vibe to any living space.
- They can be used to protect the flooring of a room.
- Furniture can be placed on top of the rugs for smooth movement during shifting.
- You can place your feet on soft crochet rugs by placing them out of the bathroom or in your bedroom.
- Crochet rugs can be used in front of the bathtub or shower as a bath rug.
- Empty spaces in a room can be filled up using a crochet rug. They do not look odd or out of the place as they have pretty designs and function as home décor items.
Crochet rugs can be made from almost any material given that they are sturdy enough. One of the most exciting things about crochet rugs is that they cannot only be easily store-bought, but they can also be made at home.
Crochet rugs that are made at home can be easily customized with different designs, different yarns, beads and other accessories such as tassels.
It is important to know the type of yarn that is best suited for crochet work. This factor decides how long-lasting your crochet rug would be, how soft or rigid it might be, or how much effort needs to be instilled into the making of the rug.
Shopping for Yarns for Crochet Rugs: Factors To Consider
Color
One of the most essential factors while choosing the yarn for your crochet rug is the color. The color decides how well your crochet rug will fit into your room.
One could choose any shade or hue they would like for their rug to be. You can match the color of the yarn with that of the palette of your room.
The most crucial thing to keep in mind while choosing a color for your crochet rug is that the color should not run when it comes in contact with moisture. Else, this could cause the rug to lose its appeal and in the worst-case scenario, may also stain your floors.
Material
Although crochet can be done with any type of yarn and non-fiber yarns as well, one should settle for the best options while working with it. Wool is extremely good for practicing stitches. Mistakes made on wool can be effortlessly undone.
Cotton is a fabric that is great for rugs to be used in warm weather. However, since it is less flexible, it can make the final rug rigid.
Acrylic yarns are widely popular and extensively used. It is a good option for absolute beginners.
Crochet thread is a separate kind of yarn made exclusively for crochet work purposes. This type of yarn is best for intricate work like table mats with pretty patterns, shrugs and woven dolls.
Cost
The cost of buying yarn to make your crochet rug at home tends to be much less as compared to buying one. This is so as items that use embroidery, crochet work or other forms of stitching are usually highly-priced in the market.
Buying yarn for crochet is cheaper in comparison with paying for the finished product.
Comfort
Crochet rugs are known to be comfortable and soft. As a result, they find extensive use in the kitchen, bath, and bedroom.
Crochet rugs are used wherever it is necessary for walking around. This relaxes the feet and makes walking around the house cozy as well.
Adding the benefits of strength and longevity of the crochet work, these rugs serve owners for quite a long time.
Longevity
Crochet rugs, made of good quality yarn, are tolerant to moisture, air, dust and rough usage. They tend to be a part of one’s home for a long time as is seen to be passed on from generation to generation.
Weight
There are several yarns with different thickness criterion available in the market. It is marked on the label, and following the instructions, you can choose which yarn should go with your requirements.
The yarns are numbered from 1 to 7 where 1 is the thinnest and 7 is the thickest. A worsted or medium weight yarn will be numbered as 4 and is essentially the most comfortable yarn to work with.
The Best Yarn For Crochet Rugs
1. Red Heart Boutique Unforgettable Yarn
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For DIY Crochet Rug projects, this yarn is undoubtedly one of the best materials to work with.
They are soft, sleek and come in ten vibrant colors for you to pick one from. They come in rich colors that make working on them fun.
They are one of the worsted weight yarns. Thus, light-weighted rugs can easily be spun, and used as décor items. Being a light-weighted yarn, it works well with beginners.
Fall in love with the bright colors that will make your crochet rugs pop out of the mundane background of your home.
2. Lion Brand Pound of Love
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Lion is well-known in the field of knitting and crochet. It is credited for making some of the best yarn for projects. This particular product is an acrylic yarn which means that rug made out of it can be machine-washed.
This, too, is a worsted weight yarn which results in softer rugs best suited for bedrooms and living spaces.
Try crocheting exquisite patterns on rugs and covers using this yarn.
3. Loops and Threads Charisma
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This yarn serves best for blankets and rugs as it is available in 35 different prints and hues.
Loops and Threads Charisma yarn can be used to make thick rugs. They are bulky and heavy weighted yarn utilizing an 8 mm crochet hook.
Crochet rugs made out of this yarn can be used for bath rugs as it tends to soak in water thoroughly. Rugs made of this yarn can be used as doormats as well.
Related Questions
Is it absolutely necessary to use yarns for crocheting rugs?
No, it is not necessary to use yarns for making crochet rugs. You can use strands of other unused or used fabric. Old t-shirts can be upcycled to make crochet rugs as well. They result in making plushier and thicker rugs for the home.
There are sustainable yarns available in the market as well. These include vegan yarn and organic yarn.
How do we take care of crochet rugs?
Depending on the type of fiber used, washing techniques can be different. It is better not to wash crochet items in the washing machine as there is always the risk of items getting shrunk.
Crochet rugs, in particular, should be washed by hand and laid out to dry. All yarn labels come equipped with washing instructions.
Is there any difference between yarn and thread?
Yes, there is a significant difference between yarn and thread. Apart from the apparent fact that yarn is thicker than thread, threads tend to be manufactured in materials like cotton or acrylic.
A lot of people believe that crochet threads are easy to work with. However, it depends on the person who has undertaken the project. Taking the requirements of the project and the experience in consideration, you can decide to opt for crochet yarn or thread.
Crochet threads will produce more delicate, intricate work on the rugs while crochet yarns are meant for heavy work.
