Fig. 65.
Ladder Insertion (Fig 65).—Fig. 65 forms a useful little insertion or ladder on which to place the crochet flowers. It connects the groups and prevents the spotty appearance which would be rather a disadvantage if the flowers were scattered in arrangement (Plate XII.). It is very simply worked. Make a chain the required length, then add three or four stitches for turning, to allow for the depth of the treble; insert the hook into the fifth half-loop, counting backwards, and make a treble stitch as described (p. 157); crochet one or two chain between each treble stitch to correspond with the number of chain stitches passed over.
Hooks.—In making the flowers, it is better for a novice to work with a bone crochet hook and wool; steel hooks are used for fine threads, flax, silk, or cotton, and are not quite so easy to manipulate as bone or wooden ones. The point of the hook ought to be quite free from roughness, as the wool or thread of any kind is so easily ruffled.
Fig. 66.
Flowers (Fig. 66).—To make the simplest flower, work five chain and join (Fig. 66 a). This figure is worked very loosely in order to show the method. Then make seven chain and one double crochet into the ring; five chain and one double crochet into the ring. Work in this way until seven little petals have been formed, then join into the third chain; finish off by cutting the wool and pulling it through. Thread a needle with the cut end, and slip it down the chain to fasten off. This forms a tiny flower, which may be duplicated in various tones of the same colour and sewn on to the foundation with cross stitch or French knots. The sizes of the flowers will vary considerably according to the thickness of the hook and thread used, as well as to the method of working, but it is always better to crochet flowers firmly to keep them in shape.
Fig. 67.
A more elaborate Flower (Fig. 67).—Fig. 67 gives a slightly more elaborate flower.