My mom taught me to crochet when i was a little girl, i taught myself how to read patterns, the more intricate the better. i have to admit it took a back seat to knitting when my children were small, but i always crocheted. i developed arthritis in my right hand a few years ago and could not continue to knit, but thank goodness i could crochet, i would not go back to knitting now, i always have crocheting to do and it goes everywhere with me, i even sit on a sunbed on holiday and crochet, it is definitely a conversation starter. my favourite items to crochet are heirloom baby shawls and blankets of which i make a lot.