…and Why You Might Not Want to Click on Them
Unless you’ve been living under a rock I’m sure you’ve heard of artificial intelligence, or AI for short, and even if you haven’t you’ve probably come into contact with it (for example the help chat bots used by many companies).
In this digital age, technology advancements have paved the way for a multitude of creative possibilities! One of which is the use of artificial intelligence to produce VERY realistic looking images, including photos made to look like crochet.
While these images seem to have remarkable accuracy at first glance, it is essential to be able to spot AI-generated photos of crochet and understand why caution might be required.
Recognising AI-Generated Photos
1. Unusual Perfection
At first glance AI-generated photos of crochet often display an exceptional level of intricacy, precision and consistency. The stitches in the crochet will appear perfect with no imperfections or irregularities.
But when you look closer, more often than not the stitches are not as clearly defined as they first seem.
They also often have sections that are near on impossible to create with a hook and some yarn.
Take a look at this bouquet of flowers for instance. This image was produced by @sprinkleofai and the flowers look amazing! But the stitches are unclear and the petals curl like real flowers which is very difficult to achieve with real crochet.
While there are highly skilled crocheters out there who can create some very impressive work, AI-generated images may show an uncanny level of skill that is very hard to achieve by hand.
2. Uncommon Colors or Combinations
If you come across a crochet photo with extremely vibrant or unusual color combinations that seem to blend seamlessly and perfectly, almost like it was spray painted, it might be a sign of an AI-generated image.
As crocheters we all know how unpredictable variegated yarn can be. It will produce unexpected stripes or patches of colour in your work.
Take a look at this image of a yarn-bombed sofa created by @anchorball. The rainbow stripes look fabulous but the rows of stitches seem to run from side to side, across the sofa while the coloured stripes run down it. Unless you’ve spray painted the yarn that neatness of striping simply isn’t possible!
The same can be said for the cats, those markings just wouldn’t be possible with a handmade piece.
AI algorithms can sometimes produce color combinations that are more aesthetically striking or unexpected than any crocheter can produce.
3. Crochet Of Unusual Size
One of the easiest ways to spot AI-generated photos of crochet is the size of the item.
Take a look at this enormous crochet cat by @ai.artandcat. It looks like it has some incredible patterns worked into it and is absolutely huge compared to the lady sitting next to it!
You may also have seen the image of the crochet elephant and lion that have been floating about on social media.
Yes there are some very complicated, very big, crochet patterns out there but usually the bigger the item the bigger the yarn used to reduce the amount of time spent creating it.
This cat looks like it was made with an Aran or worsted yarn at most – imagine how long it would have taken to create it!
Also, check out those 200 mm safety eyes! Okay yes, I guess they could be specially made but is that realistic?
If you come across an image with a crocheted piece that seems impossibly large then it’s highly likely to be an AI-generated image.
4. Extra fingers or toes
Artificial intelligence seems to have trouble coping with arms, legs, finger and toes; it often generates extras.
Go back to the Instagram link for the cats (here) and take a closer look at the 2nd photo, Grandma’s only got four toes! Or this image of a yarn-bombed motorcycle, also by @ai.artandcat, not only is the kickstand on the motorbike missing (how is it standing up?!) but check out Grandma’s hand – what’s going on there!?
These extra or missing limbs or digits are sometimes difficult to spot but once you see it you can’t un-see it!
So always check to see how many fingers, toes, hands and legs you can see, if there are too many or not enough it could be AI-generated.
Before you come at me in the comments, of course there are lots of crocheters out there with missing limbs etc but it’s highly unlikely that they’ll have two left hands or three legs. All I’m saying is tread carefully.
5. No Before Photos
Here’s another easy spot. AI-generated images NEVER have any work in progress (WIP) photos. Some of these images are trying to show highly skilled crocheters with fantastical works of art that would take a long time to make.
If that were me I’d want to record some of my progress, would you?!
Of course some crocheters don’t create WIP photos because they want to protect their creative process know-how. But they usually still have a significant social media presence.
If you’re having trouble finding more about that lady with the giant crochet cats or who created that fabulous giant crocheted sofa then it’s highly likely you’re looking at an AI-generated image.
Why Exercise Caution
1. Misrepresentation of Skill Level
One reason to be cautious when encountering AI-generated crochet photos is that they can misrepresent the actual skill level required to create such complex and perfect pieces.
Beginner (or even seasoned) crocheters might feel discouraged or overwhelmed when comparing their work to these AI-generated images, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
I have to admit, I fell for that bouquet of flowers above, it wasn’t until I read the caption that I realiese they weren’t real!
2. Devaluation of Handmade Craftsmanship
AI-generated crochet photos might devalue the time, effort, and artistry that skilled crocheters put into their work.
Or worse they create unrealistic expectations of what is possible.
By promoting AI-generated images over handmade creations, we risk overlooking the unique character and charm that arises from the human touch.
3. Trustworthiness of Patterns and Tutorials
With the increasing popularity of crochet, many rely on patterns and tutorials to enhance their skills.
However, if photos of crochet are exclusively AI-generated, it can undermine the reliability of those resources.
It’s still incredibly important to have access to patterns and tutorials based on real human experiences, providing valuable insights and troubleshooting tips.
Real vs AI-Generated
To show you just how difficult it can be to tell the difference between real and AI-generated photos, here are two images of crocheted sneakers.
The one on the right is AI-generated by @anchorball; while the one on the left was created by @alexandria.masse and is real!
Not sure? Well click here to see that all important work in progress video.
Can you spot the difference?
While AI-generated photos of crochet can be sooo awe-inspiring, it’s important to be able to tell the difference between them and real handmade creations.
Being able to spot AI-generated photos of crochet, we can maintain the appreciation for the expertise and craftsmanship of all those dedicated crocheters out there and ensure that our contributions are valued accordingly.
So, next time you come across a crochet photo online, take a closer look and consider the possibility of it being AI-generated.
Happy Crocheting!
