Greenwood library hosting mosaic crochet class

By Valorie Brecht The Greenwood Area Public Library will soon host a mosaic crochet beginner class, offering the chance to learn a new craft. Whether you have never crocheted before or you’re a little rusty and would like to brush up on your skills while learning a new form of crochet, this class is for you.

“It’s a beginner’s class, so if you don’t know how to crochet, that’s OK. I will teach you. We will start with the basic crochet stitches,” said Pat Bell, who is teaching the course.

The class will be held Fridays, Jan. 3, 10 and 17, from 5 to 6 p.m. at the library. Participants will learn how to crochet a mosaic design table runner that is approximately 55 inches long by 20 inches wide. In the first class, participants will learn the basics and start the project. The second class will be a work day, with the instructor available to answer questions and assist. The third class will involve weaving in the ends and finishing the project. There will also be an opportunity to try Swedish weave along the edges of the table runner.

“To get the most out of the class, it’s best if you are present for all three (sessions), as the learning is progressive,” said library director Amber Brill.

There is no cost to attend; however, participants are asked to sign up. They can do so by visiting the library’s Facebook page or greenwoodpubliclibrary.org, or by calling 715-267-7103.

Participants will need to bring their own materials, which include: — 4 or 4.5mm crochet hook — Three colors of plain worsted weight (medium weight) yarn. Light colors to medium work best when learning; do not use black or any extremely dark colors.

— Scissors — One sharp nose needle (large enough to thread yarn) — One blunt nose needle (large enough to thread yarn) — Pencil and paper for taking notes Bell will provide the pattern, which will indicate which stitches should be done in which color and will have Xs to show where to drop down a stitch. She will teach participants how to read the pattern if they are not familiar.

For those who are curious, the main difference between regular crochet and mosaic crochet is that in mosaic crochet, the participant crochets in only one direction, instead of going back and forth. Each end — or the beginning and end of each row — will have an equal length tail for weaving in at a later time.

More about the instructor Bell, of Loyal, crochets one-of-a-kind sweaters, scarves, ponchos and other pieces of “wearable art.” Her creations are for sale at the Back Porch Boutique in Marshfield. She’s excited to share her skills and hopes many will join the class to see what it’s all about.

“It’s a way to meet new people and it’s something creative. You get to learn a new skill,” said Bell. “People look at my wearable art and ask me all the time, ‘How do you do that?’ Well, now you can find out.”

Brill echoed Bell’s excitement in bringing something unique to the Greenwood library.

“We are looking forward to it. I have seen what Pat can do, and it looks beautiful. I hope those that attend have fun learning a new skill in crocheting,” she said.

If there is enough interest, Bell may offer an intermediate class as a follow-up to the beginner class.

VALORIE BRECHT/STAFF PHOTO