Roll With the Yarn Ballers

As winter blankets the North, many people will cuddle up with a good book and spot of tea. For some, Sudoku fits the bill. Others will cling to knitting and crocheting.

Anyone who enjoys these crafts will agree: Crocheting can be as compulsive as it is calming. Knitting is the silent verb that appears mid-sentence. It is as if they are caring for a new baby -- crafters cling to their stash of needles and yarn and will nurse their latest project anywhere.

The Craft Yarn Council of America says more than 20 million men and women are knitting and crocheting in North America. Among them are Brooklyn's knit king, Tony Limuaco; Callie Janoff, the crocheting guru at the Church of Craft; and Oregon's Matie Trewe, who knits the human digestive system along with foods that look yummy.

Knitting vs. Crocheting

Everyone who knits or crochets starts with a single loop, says Callie. Where they go from there is a matter of personal taste and skill.

The difference? For the stretchy things like hats and sweaters, many prefer knitting. For the more stiff items like doily or bags, many prefer crocheting, says Matie.

Crocheting involves linking loops of yarn or thread with one hook to create a foundation chain, on which rows upon rows are added. The finer or thinner the yarn, the smaller the recommended hook.

Knitting is known for its basic two-step, the famed knit and purl. This move can be made alone or in cool combinations, manipulating two or even five needles at a time. The yarn-to-hook size relationship for crocheting also applies to the yarn-to-needle relationship for knitting. However, "you can use fine yarn with large needles for a lacy effect," says Matie.

Tony Limuaco

A tree grows in Brooklyn, along with several grass-roots knitting groups. Tony runs three politically motivated groups: one at Prospect Perk Cafe; another at a Middle Eastern cafe, Maha, which donates tasty Yemenis dishes for the events; and finally, one at Freddy's Bar and Backroom. Members meet regularly to vent and raise awareness about the land grab they say is threatening their neighborhood.

Tony Limuaco's Scarves Seven-foot long, double-knit wool

Source: Limuaco Design