With new fashions, certain accessories change that boom into new crazes. One of these new crazes is crochet patterns. Remember the first time around crochet patterns were just for coasters and teapot covers.

Forget the old school patterns for curtains, or table mats and even coasters. Fashion is all about imagination and being able to look good and set a trend. This way is cheap and easy, it allows simple patterns to be transformed into great looks.

Ideas for a simple crochet pattern could be perfect as some detailing on a plain pair of jeans, to give an independent and imaginative look that no one else has. Using the colours in fashion, a crochet pattern could make a great, pretty handbag that you can change with the seasons. Why not finish off the outfit by crocheting a flower onto a jacket to give that final detail.

Patterns may come in different sizes and shapes, depending on what you want to use them for. Sometimes the crochet patterns will be in the form of animals or flags. For the more patriotic amongst us, colours can be matched with the yarn for the desired effect.

If you want crochet patterns there are so many out there, in magazines and online. There are thousands of designs available, but by using your own imagination you will come across great unique patterns that no one else has.

Look for free gifts with eBook purchases and links to patterns that could also be of interest to the novice or experienced crocheter.

It's not only women who can benefit from crochet patterns, in tough times there are many designs for children's clothes and designs for men as well. Why not individualize yourself by using a pattern for hats, gloves and scarves for the winter and light jackets in the summer? Men can use patterns for patches on jacket arms or starting a new trend on bike jackets and bowling shirts for example.

There are vintage patterns available for women in the form of scarves, capes and coats for independent fashion in the colder months.

Making a crochet pattern can be quite easy if you have basic knowledge of crocheting and the stitches that make different patterns. After that all that is needed to complete the item is the yarn and correct size hook for the design you want to portray.

To make your own crochet pattern it may be a good idea to draw it out on paper first. Once the layout is complete you can take the pattern to a local yarn shop for advice on the ideal yarn and perfect colours. Make sure you get the right weight of yarn as this will determine if the item is expandable or not.

If you are new to crochet, if is worth trying some already completed patterns before trying your own, to get a feel for the yarn thickness and weight, before moving onto more advanced designs and making patterns for yourself.

The most productive way to learn pattern techniques are through books and can be found on the internet at good prices and sometimes even free!

These sources show the designs and stitches involved and how to do it so anyone can catch on with a little practice.

There are still plenty of patterns to be found in charity shops and at shopping malls. Speciality shops normally have a good collection of designs. Try going into the shop and picking up a made piece to feel the weight and texture before purchasing the pattern. This will help you when you get home and start crocheting yourself.

Remember those coasters and table mats from earlier? Why not turn those into a fashion statement? These can be used for everyday wear and turned into all sorts of fashion items; just use your imagination! Why buy it from the shops when you can do it yourself without leaving your home, and for half the price at home?

Yes, I'm not pretending that using crochet patterns and learning a new hobby is quick and easy, but all your hard work will definitely pay off when you are complimented on your individual style. No one else will ever have the same look, even if they use the same pattern as each piece is totally unique. With a little imagination and able hands the opportunities for fashion are endless!

Crochet patterns and designs don't always have to be brand new, Vintage patterns have recently come back into fashion and can be used for any season using lighter yarn and colour for the summer and not forgetting darker and heavier yarns for the winter. That said who am I to say when and how you should wear your crocheted items?