Free Helga Pattern

Materials Needed & Measurements:

Suggested yarn:
- Rowan Felted Tweed
- Garnstudio DROPS Baby Merino
- Lana Grossa Cool Wool Merino Superfein
- Gazzal Baby Wool
Yarn weight: DK (11 wpi)
Gauge: 23 sts and 12 rows = 10 cm (double crochet/treble crochet)
Hook size: 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm
Yardage: 1837 – 2488 yards (1680 – 2275 m)
Sizes available: XS-S/M-L
Crochet terminology: Both US and UK

Begin by creating a foundation chain of the specified number of stitches (ch). This chain will form the base of your project.
For example, if the pattern says “ch 40,” you’ll make 40 chain stitches. Ensure your tension is consistent so your foundation chain lies flat.

Turn your work after completing the foundation chain (unless stated otherwise).
Depending on the pattern, the first row often begins with a certain type of stitch:
- For instance, “sc in 2nd ch from hook” means working a single crochet (sc) in the second chain from your hook.
- If the pattern specifies a different stitch, such as “hdc” (half double crochet) or “dc” (double crochet), follow those instructions instead.
After finishing the first row, turn your work to start the next row. In most patterns, each row is worked in a back-and-forth motion unless working in rounds.

The pattern will specify the stitch you need to use for each row, with common abbreviations like:
- sc (single crochet)
- hdc (half double crochet)
- dc (double crochet)
- tr (treble crochet)
- dc2tog (double crochet 2 together, a decrease stitch)
For example, a row might say “dc in each st across”—this means you’ll work a double crochet (dc) into each stitch across the row.
Sometimes, patterns will specify working in a certain way:
- “Work in BLO” (Back Loop Only): Insert your hook into the back loop of each stitch.
- “Work in FLO” (Front Loop Only): Insert your hook into the front loop of each stitch.
Special Stitches: Some patterns use special stitches like:
- V-stitch: This usually involves making 2 dc stitches into the same space.
- Shell: Often 5 dc stitches worked into the same stitch or space.

Crochet patterns often have repeated sections or motifs. The instructions will tell you how many times to repeat a specific set of stitches across a row or in multiple rows.
- Example: “Repeat dc, ch 1 across the row.” Here, you’d work a double crochet (dc), then a chain stitch (ch 1), and repeat that across the row until you reach the end.
Some patterns may also have a “turning chain” (tc) at the beginning of rows, such as “ch 3” to count as the first dc for the next row. These are common in dc-based patterns to maintain stitch height.

Increasing means adding stitches to make the project wider or fuller.
- For instance, “2 dc in same st” means to make two double crochets (dc) into the same stitch, effectively increasing the stitch count.
- Increases could be done at the beginning, middle, or end of a row depending on the shaping required.
Decreasing reduces the stitch count to shape the project.
- For example, “dc2tog” means working two double crochet stitches together in the same stitch (a decrease).
- To decrease over several rows, you might see a pattern that says “repeat dc2tog across,” indicating multiple decreases.

Once the body of your project is complete, the pattern will guide you through finishing touches.
- Edging: Patterns often include a border around the edges, such as “sc around,” meaning you work single crochet (sc) stitches evenly around the perimeter of the item.
- Weaving in Ends: Use a yarn needle to weave in any loose ends, ensuring they’re secure and hidden in the project.
- Blocking: Sometimes, you’ll need to block your work to even out the stitches. This involves lightly wetting the project and pinning it to shape as it dries.
Joining Pieces: If your project consists of multiple pieces, follow the instructions to join them together, often using whip stitch or slip stitch (sl st) to sew seams or edges.