crochet Crochet (; ) is a process of creating textiles by using a crochet hook to interlock loops of yarn, thread (yarn), thread, or strands of other materials. The name is derived from the French term ''crochet'', meaning 'hook'. Hooks can be made from ...

, a stitch marker is a mnemonic device used to distinguish important locations on a work in progress. Crochet patterns have a mathematical basis, so stitch markers serve as a visual reference that takes the place of continuous stitch counting and reduces a crocheter's error rate. Common uses for stitch markers include noting the first stitch on a crochet round, marking increase or decrease points, or identifying key locations in a complex repetitive stitch pattern. Beginning crocheters may use stitch markers to identify a turning chain. Stitch markers can also designate attachment points for components of a multi-part project, such as a sleeve on a sweater. Crochet often employs complex lacy patterns where stitch markers are helpful. Crochet also has less inherent stretch than

knitting Knitting is a method by which yarn is manipulated to create a textile, or fabric. It is used to create many types of garments. Knitting may be done by hand or by machine. Knitting creates stitches: loops of yarn in a row, either flat or i ...

, so crocheted garments require greater contour adjustments at the pattern and construction level.

Difference from knitting stitch markers

Unlike knitting stitch markers, which are closed bands, crochet markers have open slots so that they can be removed and rehung on new rows as a craft item grows. In order to distinguish from other types of stitch markers, the markers designed for crochet use are also known as ''split stitch markers''. Specific advice from crochet expert Edie Eckman includes: :''Avoid the round markers meant only for knitting; you need a type that can be opened so you can hang it on a stitch.''Eckman, p. 22. Among the differences between crochet and knitting is that crocheters seldom work with more than one stitch at a time, while knitters routinely carry dozens of stitches on their

knitting needles A knitting needle or knitting pin is a tool in hand-knitting to produce knitted fabrics. They generally have a long shaft and taper at their end, but they are not nearly as sharp as sewing needles. Their purpose is two-fold. The long shaft ' ...

. For these reasons these two textile arts require different kinds of stitch markers.

Notes

References

* Debbie Stoller, ''Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker'' New York: Workman Publishing, 2006. * Edie Eckman, ''The Crochet Answer Book'', North Adams, Massachesetts: Storey Publishing, 2005. {{crochet Crochet Mnemonics