Exploration Crochet

Dec 4

In this episode of Exploration Crochet , host ReRe takes a thoughtful look at the first four episodes of Game of Wool: Finding Britain’s Best Knitter , exploring what the show gets right and wrong about knitting, crochet, and craft culture on TV. Speaking as a crocheter-who-has-knit, a non-Brit, and a non–reality-show person, she unpacks the title, the “new generation of knitters” tagline, and the way crochet is folded under “knitting.” ReRe walks listeners through each challenge—highlighting where crochet shines and where the format distorts how these crafts actually work. She also looks at the production side: extreme time limits, yarn choices, editing tricks, casting decisions, and the lack of clarity about compensation and intellectual property rights for contestant designs. Throughout, she balances critique with appreciation, celebrating the imagination and innovation of the makers while reminding listeners that “everything isn’t for everybody”. Links | Episode 1 | https://youtu.be/k4FokKLplvY Episode 2 | https://youtu.be/dZD40mA-rMg Episode 3 | https://youtu.be/yfWwzxBoPto Episode 4 | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0y1Ai4Nn1dM Exploration Crochet | https://explorationcrochet.com BBC4 Presser | https://www.channel4.com/press/news/more4-cast-new-competitive-knitting-series-game-wool Channel 4 Applicant Request | https://www.channel4.com/4viewers/takepart/game-of-wool Stuart | The Woolpatch | https://www.youtube.com/@TheWoolpatch Janie Crow | https://www.janiecrow.com/ Shetland Organization of Knitters | https://explorationcrochet.com/p/the-game-of-wool-wk1-shetland-organization Prudence Mapstone: Scrumble | https://www.knotjustknitting.com/freeform/ Sound Attribution | https://dova-s.jp/EN/_contents/author/profile162.html Morphagene Reel - Glockenspiel Rubber Mallet.wav by radiohummingbird -- https://freesound.org/s/635381/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

Nov 20

In “Twisted Sisters: S, Z, and Your Crochet Sanity,” ReRe unpacks the hidden world of S and Z twist and why it almost never appears on the label. You’ll learn how S and Z twist developed through industrial spinning, why most commercial yarns are still S-twist by default, and how that history accidentally left crocheters out of the design conversation. ReRe explains how twist direction interacts differently with right-handed and left-handed crochet, why some yarns split, fuzz, and “fight back,” and how different fibers—wool, cotton, acrylic, and shiny plant-based yarns—behave under each twist. The episode also explores why more crochet influencers haven’t launched Z-twist lines, touching on mills, minimums, risk, and discontinued favorites. By the end, you’ll know how to spot S or Z in seconds, match twist to your hands and project, and stop blaming your tension when it might actually be physics messing with your crochet sanity. SOUND ATTRIBUTION https://dova-s.jp/EN/_contents/author/profile162.html https://pixabay.com/users/brolefilmer-24731381/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=12315 https://pixabay.com/users/tunetank-50201703/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=348895 Happy Music.wav by monkeyman535 -- https://freesound.org/s/326639/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 https://pixabay.com/users/lkoliks-48415707/? utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=419356

Nov 14

“Weight a Minute: An Exploration of Yarn Weights and Whys” demystifies yarn weight systems for crocheters, connecting industrial terms like tex, denier, and Nm to everyday labels like DK, Worsted, and Bulky. ReRe explains why yarn labels differ across countries, how to use WPI and swatching for smart yarn substitution, and shares a simple five-step checklist so your projects keep their intended fit and drape. Listeners also get access to a free Yarn Weight Conversion Sheet PDF to make shopping and stash-diving easier. Yarn Weight Conversion Chart - https://explorationcrochet.com/p/yarn-weight-conversion-chart Craft Yarn Council - https://www.craftyarncouncil.com/aboutcyca.html Sound Attribution: https://dova-s.jp/EN/_contents/author/profile162.html telephone.wav by iut_Paris8 -- https://freesound.org/s/570274/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Number Song Music https://pixabay.com/users/matthewmikemusic-25386219/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=233460 Number, 12 Times https://pixabay.com/users/aicanvas-5347436/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=300089 This Old Man https://pixabay.com/users/matthewmikemusic-25386219/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=373880

Nov 6

Episode 10 of Exploration Crochet asks: Acrylic yarn—superhero or super villain? ReRe traces acrylic’s origin from 1940s lab fiber (polyacrylonitrile/PAN) to 1950s brands like Orlon®, explaining how it’s spun, crimped, and dope-dyed for bright, colorfast, machine-washable results. You’ll learn where acrylic shines—afghans, granny-square throws, amigurumi, donation and outdoor projects—and where to rethink (high-heat kitchen use, hot-climate garments). The episode balances benefits (affordable, warmth without weight, reliable dye lots) with tradeoffs (pilling in budget grades, thermoplastic heat sensitivity, microfiber shedding) plus practical blocking and laundry tips. Verdict: acrylic isn’t hero or villain—it’s a fit-for-purpose tool that democratized cozy color.

Oct 30

Step into the flickering candlelight of Exploration Crochet for “The Ties That Bind — Fiber Arts, Folklore, and Magic.” In this Halloween special, host ReRe unravels the myths and mysteries spun through history’s threads — from Celtic knots and Slavic storm-binding to the Greek Fates, the Norse Norns, and the Navajo Spider Woman. Discover how cultures across centuries believed yarn, string, and fabric could shape fate, summon protection, or seal a promise. Then watch that legacy come alive in modern crochet, where each loop becomes an act of creativity, connection, and quiet courage. With stories of witch’s ladders, red-string lovers, and the tapestry from Brave , this episode celebrates the universal truth behind every stitch: we create the world together, one loop at a time. Check out the curated reading list: The Ties That Bind: Fiber Arts, Folklore, & Magic sound attribution Music Box For Suspenseful Scenes by ViraMiller --https://freesound.org/s/742115/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Irish Field Men Female Choir Drone Myst Fantasy Atmo Mastered.wav by szegvari -- https://freesound.org/s/619179/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Half-speed! Airy wind chimes quintet at Hunter's Tor, Teign Gorge by Philip_Goddard -- https://freesound.org/s/700669/ -- License: Attribution NonCommercial 4.0 NEPTUN-Solo-07 Tibetan Singing Bowl by the_very_Real_Horst -- https://freesound.org/s/240934/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 https://dova-s.jp/EN/_contents/author/profile162.html

Oct 23

In this episode of Exploration Crochet , ReRe takes listeners on a fiber-filled road trip through the world of Yarn Crawls — community-driven events where crafters visit multiple local yarn shops armed with hooks, passports, and plenty of enthusiasm. From the origins of the crawl tradition to the first official LYS tours in the late 2000s, we explore how these creative adventures connect makers and strengthen the fiber community. Along the way, ReRe highlights global yarn crawls from the U.S. to South America, where shop-hopping and skein-squishing turn travel into craft celebration. You’ll learn what makes a successful crawl — from prizes and passports to trunk shows, demos, and charity tie-ins — and get practical tips for first-time crawlers. At its heart, this episode reminds us that every yarn crawl is about connection, creativity, and the shared joy of discovering fiber together. Yarn Over Hook Crochet Yarn Crawl 2026 | https://yarnoverhook.com/crochet-yarn-crawl/ SOUND ATTRIBUTION: https://dova-s.jp/EN/_contents/author/profile162.html Golden Era of Silent Film - Music by https://pixabay.com/users/pilot2kid-23069762/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=336699 Funny Happy Melody - Music by https://pixabay.com/users/pilot2kid-23069762/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=346934 Spring in Your Step - Music by https://pixabay.com/users/grumpynora-14374548/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=352055 Creepy Trip – Gypsy Jazz - Music by https://pixabay.com/users/artmanzh-3855363/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=330441 record scratch.wav by luffy -- https://freesound.org/s/3536/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

Oct 16

In Twisted Tales: Frogging Crochet Stereotypes , host ReRe unravels the myths that have long tangled around crochet and the people who practice it. From the outdated “grandma’s hobby” image to gender stereotypes, and undervaluing of handmade work - this episode challenges every threadbare assumption. Listeners will hear how crochet bridges generations, cultures, and creative disciplines while resisting labels that try to box it in. Warm, witty, and enlightening, this episode redefines what it means to be part of the global crochet community. Sound Attribution: https://dova-s.jp/EN/_contents/author/profile162.html Funny Background Music Orchestra (Loop) by Migfus20 -- https://freesound.org/s/561390/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Funny music (orchestra) .wav by Darkash28 -- https://freesound.org/s/529967/ --License: Creative Commons 0 Numskull by Beetlemuse -- https://freesound.org/s/650939/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Walking LA by vollkornbrot -- https://freesound.org/s/371976/ -- License: Attribution NonCommercial 4.0

Oct 9

Step right up friends, ReRe is taking you on a stroll through the exhibition halls where crochet has shined for more than 170 years. From the lace collars of the 1850s to the amigurumi dragons of today, fairs have showcased crochet’s blend of precision, creativity, and heart. Along the way, you’ll hear how 4-H and Girl Scouts kept the craft alive for young makers, how yarn companies and magazines turned everyday crocheters into national prizewinners, and how modern fairs celebrate originality as much as skill. With stops at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the 2025 LA County Fair, this episode stitches together a story of evolution, artistry, and community pride. Grab your fair pass and make room for funnel cake—it’s time to celebrate crochet’s long love affair with the fair. Accompanying Blog | https://yarnoverhook.com/loops-lace-funnel-cakes/ To see Alexis Kavro's fair entries check out REMY A CRAFTY HEDGEHOG - https://www.remyacraftyhedgehog.com/pastexhibitions Sound Attributions | CAMPTOWN RACES (Stephen Foster) Camptown Races - Freedom Trail Studio - youtube.com/audiolibrary/music THE ENTERTAINER (SCOTT JOPLIN) royalty free Music produced by Giorgio Di Campo for @FreeSound Music http://freesoundmusic.eu Farming Game Theme by TheLastOneOnEarth -- https://freesound.org/s/800496/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Sunshine Humdrum by Markusheadroom -- https://freesound.org/s/796442/ -- License: Attribution NonCommercial 4.0 https://dova-s.jp/EN/_contents/author/profile162.html