Freeform Crochet

When we think of crochet, a picture of perfectly uniform and mathematically organised designs generally pop into your head. At least, that's how I've always seen it and experienced it.

On one of my latest "research expeditions" (also known in my household as "time wasting" or a reasonable alternative to making dinner) I came across this amazing thing called freeform crochet.

The images that popped up of the scrumbles should have sent my OCD sensibilities into overdrive, but strangely they didn't.

Scrumbles are the small motifs that are created in a seemingly random combination of crochet, knitting and addition of other ornamental elements like beads, to create a piece that is completely freeform - no stitch counts, or even patterns.

Scrumbles can be quite textured, and when they are placed close to each other some of them end up having a real organic feel, like shells that are stuck to a rock, or even the inner workings of cells.

Essentially this seems to be the crazy patchwork quilting of the crochet world, where you are completely free to use whatever wool and stitches you like in a multi-directional way, unhindered by patterns and rules.

I think this could be a great way to learn different stitches and incorporate them into something bigger. I don't particularly want to make an entire pattern (or even half a row, for that matter) of bullion stitches, but I can try to get over my aversion to them by including a few here and there in a scrumble.

I was completely mesmerised. I absolutely had to give this a try even though I'm not that great with the concept of randomness.

From what I could make out, you simply start with whatever number of stitches you like, and just go ahead with a helter-skelter selection of stitches. Pull up a loop wherever you choose. Go off into a different direction. Holes (the type you put there on purpose!) are encouraged. Stitches are placed wherever you like.

This was my first attempt and I was really quite pleased with myself, especially as I started with a shell shape. It isn't very visible here but it would be much more defined with the addition of some surface crocheting.

I felt like Jackson Pollack with a crochet hook, and a few times I had to shake my head to dislodge any traditional crochet ideas that were creeping in.

This two-tone scrumble includes some back post double crochet stitches - I love the texture this provides.

Getting braver and adding in more loops creates a more holey effect.

The beige design at the very top was my fourth attempt, and was mostly done in single crochet. I think by this one, I was feeling more comfortable to just go with the flow and was starting to enjoy the process.

I'll definitely keep at this, and have promised Mr K a freeform blanket. It's going to be an interesting project for sure.

Keep checking back for updates!