What is crochet (or crocheting)?

March 1, 2020

Crochet, also called croché or ganchillo, is one of the most creative and versatile textile techniques there is. Using a special needle with a hook at the end, loops of yarn are interlinked to create all kinds of projects: from garments and accessories to home décor or amigurumi toys.

Learning crochet is about much more than mastering a technique: it means discovering a way to create with your hands, relax, and bring your own ideas to life.

Crochet, Croché or Ganchillo – different names, the same passion

The term crochet comes from French and became popular in Europe in the 19th century. In Spain and much of Latin America, the word ganchillo is more commonly used, but they all refer to the same thing: crocheting with a hook.

The essentials are always the same: passing one loop of yarn through another to build the fabric, working one loop at a time.

A brief history of crochet

Although there is no clear evidence of its exact origins, crochet is believed to have been practiced in Europe as early as the 16th century.

📖 In 1812, Elizabeth Grant wrote about crochet in The Memoirs of a Highland Lady.
📑 In 1824, the first patterns appeared in the German magazine Penélope.
✨ In the mid-19th century, crochet became a popular pastime, and the first pattern books began to circulate.

Since then, crochet has evolved into a creative hobby with millions of followers around the world.

What can you crochet?

Traditionally, crochet was used for blankets, doilies, rugs, scarves, and home accessories.

Today, modern crochet opens the door to endless projects:

Fashion garments (tops, jackets, dresses).
Accessories (hats, scarves, bags).
Home décor (baskets, cushions, rugs).
Amigurumi (crocheted toys).

👉 Get inspired by our free crochet patterns section and start crocheting your first creations.

Materials for crocheting

You can crochet with almost any fiber, but the most commonly used are:

Cotton → cool and perfect for summer garments or amigurumi.
Wool → warm and soft, ideal for autumn and winter.
Acrylic and blends → durable and easy to care for.

The important thing is to choose a yarn suited to the project and the effect you want to achieve.

👉 Find the best cotton yarn balls and wool yarn balls at Idealium to start your first project.

Crochet in the digital age: community and inspiration

Thanks to the Internet and social media, crochet is now shared all over the world: techniques, tips, advice, patterns, and projects inspire thousands of people every day.

Every time you post or share your work, you become part of a global community of crocheters who, without realizing it, create and evolve together.