What Do You Call Someone Who Crochets?

Are you a crocheter, Fiber artist, or Crochetier? How do you refer to yourself as someone who crochets and how do you want to be referred to? While there are numerous ways to refer to someone who crochets, the most common terms include Crochet Crafter, Yarn lover, Crocheter, Crochetier, and Fiber artist.

What does each of these names mean? I have explained this in detail in this post with the help of my other crochet friends.

What Do You Call Someone Who Crochets? Crocheter Definition & Alternative Terms Explained

Crochet is a form of needlework and is often enjoyed as a hobby by many people. The term “crocheter” has been in use since the mid-1800s and continues to be widely used today to describe anyone who practices this art form.

To make this post inclusive, I asked my crochet friends in my community what they like to be called (addressed) when they crochet and the names they have been called. Some of their responses include

• Some call me a magical creator
• Crochet designer, yarn fondler, hooker extraordinaire
• Yarn Goddess
• Crocheter
• I know of a few terms – crocheter, crochet artist, fiber artist, yarn artist, crochetier, hooker, yarn wizard
• Craft artist
• Textile Artist
• Yarn hooker, or yarn stitcher. But I love fiber artists…we are artists!
• Hooker
• Crazy crafter
• Yarn master
• A maker
• I go by crocheter, fiber artist – my husband calls me a witch

The response by my tribe makes me appreciate how diverse this craft is and how little people know about what we do! While there are no right or wrong answers, this necessitated some diggings to see the meaning of these names.

Understanding the Term Crocheter

Crocheter Definition

A crocheter is someone who engages in the craft of crochet, which involves using a crochet hook to create fabric by interlocking loops of yarn or thread.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary (French-English), a Crocheter (verb) is defined as “to crochet”.

The funny thing is whenever I type my crochet designs (patterns) or write a blog post and have to use the term “crocheter” my computer autocorrect automatically changes it to crochet! Even this post is filled with lots of highlighted wrong spellings for words like – crocheter, crochetier, yarnie, and crochetist!

Alternative Names for Crocheters

Crocheting is a popular craft that involves using a hook to create fabric from yarn or thread. Various names know people who practice this skill. This section explores alternative terms for crocheters, highlighting their unique aspects and histories.

Crochet Designer

A crochet designer is someone who creates and develops crochet patterns, by using a crochet hook to create something out of yarn, or thread. The designs can range from simple to complex and can include anything from clothing items, accessories, amigurumi, and home decor items, to unique art pieces.

The designer is someone who understands the characteristics and potential of different types of yarns and threads, the range of possible stitches and techniques, and how to write and diagram instructions clearly for other people to follow. They also need an artistic sense to create attractive and innovative designs.

Crochetier

The term “crochetier” originates from the French word for “small hook,” which is an integral tool used in crocheting. A crochetier is someone who creates crochet work, showcasing their mastery of yarn, stitches, and patterns.

Crochetist

Another name for a crocheter is a “crochetist.” This term also has French roots and emphasizes the artistry and craftsmanship required to crochet intricate items such as lace or fabric. A crochetist intricately intertwines loops to create crochet work and may explore various stitch types to create unique pieces.

Hooker

Historically, some crocheters referred to themselves as “hookers” due to the fundamental role of the crochet hook in their craft. Although this term highlights the connection between the hook and the crocheter’s skill, it has the potential for misunderstanding.

There are a lot of crochet notions, bags, and t-shirts with the inscription “I am a Hoooker” This mainly refers to the person as a crocheter, someone who crochets, and nothing more!

Yarn Lover

A “yarn lover” is a more casual term that encompasses individuals who appreciate and enjoy working with yarn, whether for crocheting, knitting, or other crafts. Yarn lovers appreciate the versatility and beauty of different types of yarn and may share their passion for the medium on social media, especially on crochet forums like Facebook.

Fiber Artist

A “fiber artist” is a term that not only applies to crocheters but also encompasses other artists who work with fiber materials like yarn or thread. These artists create various items, from clothing to decorative pieces, by expertly manipulating the materials. This label emphasizes the artistic aspect of crocheting and other fiber crafts.

Crafter

A “crafter” engages in various crafting activities, including crocheting. As a more general term, it can apply to individuals who work with yarn, fabric, or other materials, in addition to crocheting. This term celebrates the broader world of crafting, in which crochet is just one of many creative pursuits.

Yarnie

A “yarnie” is a common name for someone who loves to gather yarn! I kid you not, one way to identify someone who crochets is by the amount of yarn they have. The volume shows how much they enjoy yarn crafts, especially crocheting.

This name emphasizes the shared love of yarn and the camaraderie that can develop among those who crochet. A yarnie is always excited to share their recent purchase and collection with those who share the same interest. Asking to see their collections, new and interesting crochet patterns, and inspiration.

A yarnie would also ask for color combination suggestions from other yarnies.

I can’t wait to see your beautiful makes! Come share your projects with me and the crochet community on Facebook and on Instagram.

Fosbas

Crochet vs Knitting

While crochet and knitting are both methods of fabric creation using yarn, they differ in various aspects. The key distinction lies in the tools used and the structure of the resulting fabric. Most times when I crochet in public, passersby would usually comment on the line “Oh, I love your knitting” So, is crocheting synonymous with knitting? Can these two terms be used interchangeably?

What do you call someone that knits?

Someone that knits is commonly referred to as a knitter! The person who knits uses at least two pins at the same time.

Crochet involves using a single crochet hook to work with one loop at a time, while knitting requires two knitting needles to create multiple loops simultaneously. This difference in technique also leads to unique fabric appearances, with crochet fabric often appearing denser and more textured than knitting fabric.

Here are some other notable differences between crochet and knitting:

Aspect	Crochet	Knitting
Tools	Single crochet hook	Two knitting needles
Fabric	Denser, textured	Softer, more elastic
Stitch count	One loop at a time	Multiple loops
Yarn usage	More yarn	Less yarn

The terms crochet and knitting are related, they refer to two distinct crafts with unique techniques and outcomes. A person who practices crochet is commonly referred to as a “crocheter,” while someone who knits is called a “knitter.” Both crafts fall under the needlework category and provide creative outlets for individuals to create various fabric-based projects.

Now tell me, what do you call yourself? I identify as a crocheter, fiber artist, and crochet designer.

Other informative tips and tutorials to check out on the blog include

The Best yarn to crochet and the ones you should avoid

Blocking explained

How long does it take to crochet a sweater or beanie?

Best stitches to crochet a sweater

Xo

Susanna