In late March, the AIA Northern Virginia Women in Architecture (WIA) Committee presented a Crochet 101 Workshop to provide attendees an opportunity to learn a new skill and socialize. The idea for the event originated from a conversation between Heather Casey, AIA, NCIDQ and Dani Juarez, Assoc. AIA, both at Summer Consultants, about cross-stitching and other needle arts. Heather wanted to learn how to crochet, and Dani knew how! By the time they finished chatting, they already knew it would make a great WIA event and set out to make it happen. Summer Consultants, Inc. even agreed to host!

It was a delightful evening full of talking, laughing, learning, and snacking. We started with a short overview of crochet, comparing different types of fiber arts, and looking at some examples of contemporary artists who use crochet in their work. We also took a look at a sample crochet pattern and noted the similarities with a set of construction documents. Like CDs, crochet patterns have their own ‘language’ and abbreviations, contain standardized information, lay out what to expect in the finished product, and provide a blueprint for how the project should be completed. And, like so many skills in architecture + design, crocheting requires learning and mastering foundational techniques before moving on to more complex projects. The emphasis is on being able to replicate stitch patterns, even neat stitches, and this can only be accomplished with practice and experience. (Something every person who’s ever struggled to master Revit can attest to!)

Afterward, we jumped straight into hands-on practice. Each attendee received a skein of yarn, a crochet hook, and other supplies so they could follow along with the instructions. Some participants had previous experience with crochet, and others were completely new to the art form. We practiced starting the foundation row, turning a row, and how to work a single crochet stitch. Working through challenges and successes, participants used the foundational skills learned at the beginning to create their own crochet coaster for their desk

Overall, the event was a huge success and well-received by the attendees. Learning and practicing a new skill gave us all an opportunity to unwind, socialize, and relax while challenging a different, more tactile part of our brain.