The History of Crochet

Granny Square Bloanket | Wix Images

For me, crochet is not just a craft but a deeply personal refuge, a connection to the root of who I am. I learned to crochet as a little girl during a three-day-long train journey from Kolkata to Madras. My mother was working on a granny square blanket, and I had left my book behind. To keep me from peppering her with endless questions, she handed me a hook and some yarn and patiently taught me how to make my first granny square. That simple act of learning from her hands became the beginning of a lifelong love for crochet. Over the years, it has provided me with solace in times of hardship, a quiet space for introspection, and a creative outlet for self-expression.

As an adult, I have discovered that my affinity for handicrafts goes back generations. Through research and the discovery of old letters, I have traced this love of making to my great-great-grandmother on my mother’s side and my great-grandmother on my father’s. Their stories of skill and artistry, passed down through the years, remind me that every stitch I make carries a legacy—one that I hope to continue and pass forward.

Crochet, a craft beloved by artisans and hobbyists alike, has a rich and fascinating history that spans cultures and centuries. Though its precise origins remain a topic of debate, crochet as we know it today has evolved into an intricate art form with deep cultural significance. From its earliest recorded appearances to its resurgence in modern fashion and sustainability movements, crochet has proven to be more than just a pastime—it's a testament to human creativity and craftsmanship.

The origins of crochet are somewhat elusive, as there is little physical evidence of the craft before the 19th century. Unlike weaving or knitting, which leave behind ancient artefacts, crochet does not require a loom or needles, making it difficult to trace historically. Some historians believe that crochet may have stemmed from early forms of needlework practiced in the Middle East, China, or South America. Others suggest it developed from a technique called tambouring, which was popular in 18th-century France and involved creating decorative loops on fabric with a hooked needle.

By the early 1800s, crochet had gained popularity in Europe, particularly in Ireland and France. During the Irish Potato Famine (1845-1852), Irish women crocheted lace to support their families, selling their intricate handiwork to wealthy Europeans. This lace, known as Irish crochet, became highly sought after and helped many families survive during economic hardship. The craft soon spread across the world, with patterns being shared through printed books and illustrations.

Crochet evolved throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, adapting to changing fashion trends. Victorian-era crochet patterns were elaborate and delicate, often used for lace collars, tablecloths, and gloves. By the 1920s and 1930s, crochet gained a more practical use, with women making bedspreads, doilies, and clothing accessories. The craft saw another surge in popularity during the 1960s and 1970s, when the counterculture movement embraced handmade fashion, including vibrant crocheted garments and accessories.

In recent years, crochet has experienced a revival, fuelled by the slow fashion movement and the growing appreciation for handcrafted goods. Modern artisans and designers are incorporating crochet into contemporary fashion, home décor, and even high-end couture. Additionally, crochet has become a means of creative expression and community-building, with online platforms allowing crafters to share patterns, tutorials, and inspiration across the globe.

From its mysterious beginnings to its enduring appeal, crochet continues to evolve while maintaining its deep-rooted tradition. Whether used for practical purposes, artistic expression, or cultural preservation, crochet remains a timeless craft that connects generations through the beauty of handmade artistry.