The art of crochet has been practiced for centuries, so by sheer longevity, there’s got to be something about this weaving of yarns that tens of millions of people find appealing, right up to the present day. Prior to the Industrial Age, crochet was practiced as much of necessity as for pleasure. During the Victorian era, small round and rectangular doilies of fine cotton were woven, with tiny stitches and intricate patterns, to place on the armrests of sofas, to protect the furniture. Tablecloths and runners, as well as pillowcase trims were also popular during this time. Such crochet projects remained popular in the U.S. through the 1940s.