Whether you're a seasoned yarn enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of knitting and crocheting, you've likely come across some unique and colorful slang. In this article, we'll explore the whimsical and fascinating world of yarn-related jargon that can make you feel like part of an exclusive club. From "frogging" to "cake," we'll break down the terminology that keeps the crafting community buzzing with excitement.
Yarn Bombing: 🧶
Let's kick things off with a vibrant and unconventional form of public art—yarn bombing. Yarn bombing involves covering objects, such as street signs, park benches, and even vehicles, with colorful knitted or crocheted materials. The yarn bomber, often an anonymous artist, brings a touch of whimsy and warmth to urban landscapes. It's a form of guerrilla art that has been gaining popularity in recent years, with its own set of terminology and customs.
Frogging: 🐸
Ever spent hours knitting or crocheting a project only to realize you made a mistake several rows back? Welcome to the world of "frogging." This term comes from the sound "rip it, rip it," which you make as you unravel your work to correct an error. It can be frustrating but is a necessary part of the crafting process. Sometimes you have to "frog" to leap forward!
Stash: 🧶
A crafter's stash is their treasure trove of yarn. It's a collection of yarn in various colors, textures, and weights, often stored in bins, baskets, or dedicated craft rooms. Enthusiasts take pride in their yarn stashes, and acquiring new skeins can become an addiction. Some might even refer to it as "stash enhancement."
WIP: 🧵
When you're in the midst of a knitting or crocheting project, you're dealing with a "Work in Progress" or "WIP." Crafters often have multiple WIPs at any given time, which can lead to an overwhelming pile of half-finished scarves, blankets, and hats. Some even embrace their WIP pile as a symbol of creativity and inspiration.
Cake: 🍰
While "cake" might evoke images of sweet treats, in the crafting world, it has a different meaning. Crafters refer to a yarn ball with a distinctive shape as a "cake." These cakes are often formed by winding a skein of yarn into a flat, cylindrical shape. Crafters love cakes because they allow for easy center-pull and less tangling during their projects.
Blocking: 🧊
"Blocking" is the magical process that turns your wobbly, uneven pieces into beautifully structured and finished items. It involves wetting your project and then carefully shaping and pinning it to specific dimensions, allowing it to dry into the desired shape. Blocking is particularly important for lacework and delicate crochet pieces.
Conclusion
As you dive deeper into the world of knitting and crocheting, you'll encounter even more delightful slang and terminology. These words and phrases not only help you communicate with fellow crafters but also add a layer of camaraderie to the experience. From frogging your mistakes to building an enviable stash, the yarn world is a place of creativity, community, and, of course, plenty of yarn yabber!