I will share some useful tricks that I learned over the years that will help you crochet quicker, easier and with more fun. You should also consider attending our Crochet-Along Classes. We present all the instructions you'll need to Crochet beautiful pattern designs. I frequently add useful tips in the Crochet-Along lessons.

1. What kind of thread shall I use?
   The most common is cotton thread. It will last a long time and it is easy to clean. Synthetic threads have a nice sheen to them. They will drape nicely if used for a curtain, but they are very hard to clean.
   
   
2. What size of thread shall I use?
   The finer the thread, the more delicate or lace-like your finished piece will look. But a fine thread also means a smaller doily. For doilies and table topper use thread #20 or #30. For bigger pieces like curtains and big tablecloths, use thread #10 or #20.
   
   
3. What size of thread should Beginners use?
   If you just learned how to crochet, start with a bigger thread and a smaller pattern. I remember my first round doily ended up to be an oval One. Wait until you get more experienced before you try the finer threads.
   
   
4. What color of thread shall I use?
   White thread will show the pattern best on wood furniture, glass tables or windows. Colored thread looks best when put on top of a different colored tablecloth. But beware that the color will fade out over the years if you expose the piece to bright sunlight. Call me old fashion, but I use white thread most of the time. White thread looks good on any surface and gives the piece an elegant touch.
   
   
5. Where should I buy the thread?
   You can buy your thread in any craft store or order it directly on the internet.
   
   
6. How much thread should I buy?
   Make sure you order more thread (at least one extra ball) for your project than what is recommended when using colored threads. You don't want to run out before you finish your project. For white thread, it is easy to get additional balls of the same quality and color. For colored threads, you should buy enough at one time to get it from the same dye-lot. You may be unhappy with the result, if you later buy an extra ball of colored thread and the color is slightly different.
   
   
7. What level of Quality of thread should I buy?
   Don't try to save money on your thread. Since you are going to spend many, many hours crocheting your piece, only use the best thread. This will ensure it will last you a lifetime and won't fall apart after the first wash.
   
   
8. What kind of hook should I use?
   The best hooks are the ones made from steel. I don't like the plastic ones because the thread does not run nicely around the hook. Try to get a hook with a nice big plastic or wooden grip. It is most important that you use the right size of hook for the particular thread. Check the label of the thread for the manufacturers suggested hook size.
   
   

1. Starting a large piece in Filet
   If you work on a larger piece, work your foundation chain with a separate ball of thread. Then attach the thread from a new ball at the first ch of foundation and work the first row. This way you will be able to add or subtract chs if you miscounted the first time.
   
   
2. Length of Foundation Chain
   Count the number of squares, multiply by three and add one more chain. For example, if you have 45 squares: 45 x 3 = 135 + 1 = ch 136 for foundation. Then ch3 for first dc in next row, then work according to design.
   
   
3. Where to start a Curtain
   Curtains generally start and end with a row of dcs to give the outside some strength. Normally in a crochet project you would start on the first row and work to the end. However, for curtains it is better to start with row two and work to the end. Then you attach the thread to the beginning and work row one. You do this because it is very hard to start with hundreds of dcs.
   
   
4. Round Table Cloths and Doilies
   Start from the middle (if not otherwise requested). It is easier to decrease squares, than to increase squares. Start with the foundation ch and work the upper half. With the back-side facing up, attach the thread to work the lower half. Some designs with extensive use of the lacet stitch may require starting at a different location, as indicated with a "Start" arrow.
   
   
5. Large Patterns
   Some patterns are too big to be shown in full, so they are shown as a quarter chart. Start in the middle with your foundation chain, then work the first row to the center of the quarter chart (indicated with arrows). Then work the chart in reverse to complete each row.
   
   
6. Short Rows at the End
   These are done separately. Attach the thread at various points to finish. Make sure to stay on the side necessary to continue the pattern.