A few posts ago, a reader commented that she would enjoy a post explaining the difference between Irish crochet and regular, everyday crochet.
I’ve done very little crochet and have only token knowledge of the subject. As I have declared time and time again, I am an expert only on the merits of my children and grandchildren. But I am happy to share what I know and what I have discovered after doing a little research. I was especially pleased to find the Irish crochet demonstration YouTube video posted below.
Irish crochet is made up of motifs, basted to waste fabric, connected with crochet stitches and then removed from the waste fabric. This makes possible the dimensional motifs which are characteristic of Irish crochet.
Pictured below are three pieces from my collection in the very popular shamrocks and roses pattern.
These, obviously, are all edgings.  The first piece is 4 yds. long, with a definite curve. I suspect it edged a tablecloth.
Comparing the edgings above to what I call “standard” crochet, the difference is more apparent.
On YouTube, where you could probably find a how-to clip on do-it-yourself-appendectomy, I found this very informative and short video. The lady demonstrating and lecturing is a real expert.
Crochet is so sturdy! Almost inevitably, it outlives the item to which it was attached. I have several crocheted yokes, pillowcase edges, collar pieces and more, almost none of which are attached to fabric.
I have a few other pieces, including a short length of 1″ wide insertion that I hope to use on a daygown someday.
My experience with crochet is very limited, though I would like to learn more. On-line, there is a pattern for a relatively simple edging.
Those of you who have more than basic proficiency might enjoy trying this out.
After pulling out all this Irish crochet, I am inspired to use it for something. As always, too much inspiration, too little time.
If any readers have made Irish crochet, I would really enjoy hearing about it and seeing pictures of your projects.
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