Delta Crochet

Delta crochet is a lovely style of crochet somewhat similar to Filet crochet but a lot confusing in the beginning. There are very few resources on the web regarding this style. The only one with a tutorial is here

HERE'S MY OWN.

Like most forms of crochet, you can work Delta crochet too in two ways
1. In rows
2. In rounds

These instructions assume that you are familiar with Basic Crochet. You'll find information on turning chains and stitch symbols
here


Let's first consider working in rows.
Step 1: How do you calculate the number of foundation chains required?

Based on a simple formula -
(no. of Upward pointing triangles x 5)+ 1. Observe the first diagram and you'll understand why.

We'll start with 4 upward pointing triangles. This translates to (4x5)+ 1 = 21 chains.

The 21 chains are the foundation row.

The pattern as you can see in the second diagram uses just 2 stitches, the chain and the double treble. Now, onto the next step.

Step 2: CLICK ON DIAGRAMS TO ENLARGE

This row is read from right to left and also worked from right to left. 

Step 3:
Work the first 4 chains and then turn work and continue working.

This row is read from left to right but since the work is turned at the beg of this row,  worked from right to left.

What is Counted Thread Embroidery?

1. Assissi
2. Berlin Work, Cross Stitch
3. Blackwork (Spanish)
4. Drawn Thread
5. Hardanger
6. Huck Embroidery
7. Lagartera
8. Kasuti (Ethnic Indian Embroidery) 
9. Pulled Thread

Free Counted Thread Embroidery Books

The major source of embroidery books in the Public Domain is The Antique Pattern Library

Resource: Project Gutenberg's Beeton's Book of Needlework, by Isabella Beeton, pages 561-584

1. Berlin Work includes every kind of stitch which is made upon canvas with wool, silk, or beads. The principal stitches used are common cross stitch, Gobelin stitch, leviathan stitch, raised or velvet stitch, tent stitch, and others. 
2.  Before beginning to work upon a piece of canvas the raw edges must be hemmed or [560] sewn over with wool. 
3. Care must be taken not to crumple the canvas in the course of the work. It is best to roll one end of the canvas upon a round piece of deal while the other end is kept down upon the table with a lead cushion. Handsome artistic patterns should always be worked in a frame. 
4. When you undertake to work a large pattern begin in the centre, and complete one half before you commence the other. 
5. Always work the stitches in the same direction, from the top downwards--this is very essential to the beauty and regularity of the pattern. 
6. Edit in your own words

Swalm

 

I bought this book a couple of years back and found it worth the money I spent on it.

What I liked best about this book is - Christine Bishop has used different design details for each element- in effect, you get to work all the possible combinations.  Instructions are very clear and satisfactory.

The outlines are worked in chain stitch followed by a row of coral stitches - then embellished with buttonhole stitch variations.

The smaller design elements are worked in padded satin - the large ones with a combination of draw and pulled thread designs.

The edging is needle made lace -though it looks like crochet.



Needle made lace is more intricate and time consuming than crochet. But the finished product is always worth the effort.