In this basics series, I'll be sharing videos that teach you how to use the VarieHook for basic stitches that you're already using in your crochet. Today, we'll be using the VarieHook to create shells.
Shells are a simple crochet stitch with several double crochets placed in the same stitch. Sometimes they are right beside each other, and sometimes there is a chain between them, for a wider appearance.
Traditionally, shells arch upward from the center in the shape of a shell - hence, the name! However, if the crocheter wants to alter the appearance of the shell, or have the side DCs stretch out to cover more space along the work, they would have to pull up longer loops with each step, to make the overall stitch larger, longer and fuller. Not only is this estimating tedious, but if you get distracted and forget to pull up a larger loop, then your stitch will be uneven and lumpy. Multiply that over an entire blanket's worth of stitches, and your project may be unsatisfactory at best, and downright disappointing at worst.
With the VarieHook, our multiple shaft sizes work that magic for you! In fact, as you'll see in the video below, the size difference is substantial enough that we can create a flat-topped shell without any pull ups at all. The stitch below is one of our free practice stitches and can be found on the VarieHook website. When you receive your VarieHook, we recommend that you work with our free patterns as you get a feel for your new favorite crochet hook, and learn the ways that the VarieHook can make your crochet easier, faster, and more fun!
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