I'm a combo color/texture person. You would not believe how many skeins of Caron Simply Soft I have because I walked past and said, "oooh... pretty..." or "wouldn't those two colors be nummy together?"
Love the tip about starting a new row of double crochet with a single crochet topped with another single crochet instead of a chain 3. It looks so much neater!
Hey Elise! I have some comments on the tips you've mentioned, I also have a tip or two of my own! Best Yarn for projects - This is key for MANY reasons, especially if you are following someone else's pattern. Stretch and gauge, being able to match the creator's gauge is just ONE consideration. Cotton barely stretches, cotton blends do a little better. I've not used wool yet so I can't tell about stretch and drape for those. Acrylic stretches the best. But again, this isn't the only concern. On certain projects, like wearables, you also need to consider breathability. Are you making a garment for Spring/Summer months? Then you want cotton or a cotton blend, because they breathe better. Need something for warmth? Acrylic, wool, plushy type yarns, velvet or velour yarns work best. You also need to consider WHO is going to be using what you make. Is it a newborn or infant? A baby older than 3 mos, but less than a year? Toddlers, small children, teenagers and adults? All of these also need to be taken into consideration. Newborns and infants can get overheated easily, so you have to think about that, but you also need to think about the fact their limbs are weaker, may not have complete range of motion. Putting something on an infant using worsted weight yarn, might be too bulky for the infant, and could actually cause harm when trying to get that infant into the garment. Personally, I wouldn't go higher than a fine, or fingering weight yarn for infants and newborns, I wouldn't go past a 3 weight or dk weight when crocheting wearables for babies over 3 mos but less than a year. I would save worsted weight yarns until after they are a year old. Baby blankets you can almost use anything, because they aren't wearable. I would still use a cotton/cotton blend for spring/summer and acrylic, plushy etc for fall/winter months. I would try not to use anything higher than a dk weight for babies under 1 year old. NEVER use wool or wool blends for babies under 2. Their skin is still very delicate and can get easily irritated with wool/wool blends. Also, if there are going to be allergies, those usually develop within the first 2 years. Wool is the most common fiber for allergies. Gauge Swatching - I will admit, I don't do this when I'm creating my own patterns. Well, I do, but not until the end of the project. I only swatch if I'm following someone else's patterns. However, I will say this. After you've been crocheting for a while, you will start to get a feel for your own tension. Once you have been crocheting for a while, your tension, along with other aspects of crocheting will become consistent, and if you consistently crochet with a tighter tension, you know to always pick up a larger hook. Crochet chain and the first stitches - I'm one of those that put my stitches in the spine (the back bumps) of the chain. I highly recommend this for many reasons. 1. The finished edge. Like Elise showed, when you use the spine, once you have completed your first row you have what looks like a finished edge on your project. The edge of your project has the same v's as the top of your project. 2. If you have to crochet into that chain at another time, like crocheting a border, that beginning chain is not going to pull away from the rest of your stitches, so there won't be gaps between your border and the rest of your work. 3. If you decide NOT to create a border, you already have a neat, finished edge. Foundation chain Hook Size - Going up a hook size is a good idea, if you aren't consistent with chaining. But what do you do if you don't HAVE the next size up? Going up 2 sizes (or more) can present its own problems, so here is an alternative. It may take you a little longer in the beginning until you get used to it, but what you can do is each time you start to make a chain, slide the loop on your hook to the WIDEST point of your hook. If you are using the old Boye hooks, that's the flat space where you normally put your thumb when you are crocheting. If you have ergonomic hooks, like I do, it's the point where the metal hook meets the handle. For Furls hooks (or others), pick a spot on the hook that is wider than the hook itself, then mark it with a Sharpe. When you got to make the chain, pull the loop back to that point. It gives you a wider chain, that won't tighten up as much when you start crocheting. When doing double crochets, I use the stacking single crochet, myself! The cool thing about the stacking single crochet, is that you can stack it as high as you need. Treble crochet? Stack 3 times. You just keep stacking until you have the height you need! Stitch Markers - THESE ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND!!! I've been crocheting for over 30 years, and I STILL use stitch markers at the beginning and end of the row, especially if I'm working a stitch for the first time. But there are other ways you can utilize stitch markers. I don't have a row counter (mine broke), and even when I did, I'm one of those that forget to change the counter after every row. So I make a habit of marking every 5 rows. That way, I keep track of my row count. If I'm supposed to increase or decrease at a certain point in a pattern, I will count those stitches and mark them, so I don't forget. Stitch markers are invaluable!!! Cutting and reknotting knots in yarn - I cannot stress this enough!!! I have actually had projects fall apart due to knots coming apart. I will go one step further. Some people would rather reknot the yarn. I suggest using the Magic Knot. If you look up magic knot on You Tube, there are PLENTY of tutorials on how to do this. The cool thing about the magic knot is the more you pull on it, the tighter it gets, and it WON'T come undone, even if you cut the yarn ends up right beside the knot. Blocking - The ONLY thing I don't block, is adult sized blankets, and that's only because I don't have a blocking board (or space in my house) big enough to block an adult sized blanket. I also don't block hats. But I block just about everything else. Perfectionism - Perfectionism in just about ANYTHING can only be achieved by using machines. You are almost NEVER going to find a handmade item that doesn't have a flaw or an imperfection. That's okay!!! In fact, a lot of time, it's those little imperfections that give the item its charm! When people are looking for hand-crafted items, they are NOT looking for perfection, they are looking for something unique, something that was made with love and care, creativity and effort. Learn from mistakes you make, but don't let them stop you. If you are looking for perfection in what you make, you are setting yourself up to fail. Now a tip or two of my own! Yarn ends - a lot of us like to crochet over yarn ends so we don't have to deal with them at the end of our project. Others (like me) HATE weaving in yarn ends. But they can still pull out eventually, and your project can unravel. I discovered a way to keep them from pulling out. When you have yarn ends at the end of a row - Start the next row, crochet 2 or 3 stitches. Pull your hook out of the current loop (make sure lengthen the loop so you don't lose the stitches you just made), and go back to the first ACTUAL stitch you made (not a chain stitch). Look at the top of the stitch where the V is. Stick your hook down THROUGH the V and continue through the bottom of the stitch (if it's a sc or an hsc) or through the top leg of the stitch (if it's a dc or higher). Use the hook to grab those yarn ends, then pull them up through the stitch, until the yarn ends are sticking out of the top of the V. Then you leave them be, and crochet over them in the next row. The cool thing is, you can do this more than once and believe me, they WILL NOT come undone! But what if you have to frog back? Well, I learned this the hard way. You can't frog past the point you pulled those yarn ends up and through, UNTIL you pull them out again. That's easy, just go to the bottom of the stitch (or where you pulled them up through) and gently pull on those yarn ends, pulling them back out of the stitch. Then you can continue to frog back to where you need to. Corner stitches - This is a trick I learned from watching a You Tube video, and it really works. Sometimes you don't want to do a stitch, ch 1, stitch in a corner. You want the corner to be full, which usually means 3 stitches in the corner which usually gives you a rounded corner. But what if you don't want a rounded corner? What if you want a square corner? Simply use an elongated version of the stitch you are using for that middle stitch. You start the stitch as normal, yarn over, and pull through JUST ONE loop. Then yarn over and complete the stitch as normal. This makes that middle stitch just slightly taller, which gives you a squared corner. I hope these comments and tips help you! May your projects always put a smile on your face!
I'm still trying to figure out what the purpose of blocking is? I crotchet stuff into the shape I want it, but the stuff she seems to be blocking are things that are going to get washed anyway, so why not just wash it?
This is an outstanding video!!! I started crocheting 55+ years ago and wish I would have had this tutorial to answer my many questions. So many times I put crocheting aside. If I couldn't figure out a way around an obstacle I'd move on to a different craft. Thank you, Elise, for making this go-to for current and future makers. Also, congratulations on obtaining your certification!
My husband and I have began purging things in the basement. We came across projects (knitted and crocheted) that I had begun more than 15 years ago as a novice. Wow! I was mortified! They were a crazy mix of yarns and colors! Almost random in the combinations. I realized that we have to be intentional in our designs and projects 😊.
Great tips! I’ve crocheted 16 years but literally never stop learning. Sometimes I just refuse to do things the “right” way because I’m stubborn, then finally cave and I’m so glad I took the time to do it correctly ❤❤
That first tip is gold! I should know it, but I look at my completed project and oops! Once again that is NOT what that yarn wanted to be when it grew up.😅 Love your videos so much!
I am also a seasoned crocheter (67 years old this June). I am so happy for your channel. I learn something new every time. I especially like the stacking of sc's at the beginning of a row.
My number one tip for preventing woven in ends from popping out is to felt over the stitches where you wove it in. Just take a sharp needle, place the work on something that won't mind being stabbed, and press the needle into the place where the end is woven in about six or seven times going through all the fabric (no more than thisxas you don'twant the fabric to go fuzzy). Pull gentle on the yarn end to be sure it won't move, then snip the tail close as usual. The end will never poke out, even after washing. This works with acrylic, wool and cotton yarns.
Hi Elise I'm 76 this year crocheting since I was 18 but still learning new things all the time.i love your channel.thanks so much for bringing such joy .💖💖💖
"Continue to learn" so true! I've been crocheting since I was 8 years old. I'm now 60 and learning really great tips and tricks. Love that the younger generation has picked it up and improved on it.
These are good tips, thank you. I would add one more: time a test section of the pattern. When I have done these tests, I can better judge how long the project will take. Then I allot time for it, or shelve it because I don't have time. Because of this, I meet deadlines better, and I no longer have forever projects.
I make a lot of snowflakes and found that the tiny steel hooks are hard to hold. I took one of your tips and tried a makeup sponge. Works fabulous!! I put one sponge lengthwise on the bottom of the hook. It makes holding the hook very comfortable and allows my fingers to work the hook. Linda/Holden, MA
I've never done a gauge before I loved the way you explained it! I've been crocheting mostly kitchen items and bathroom items but I'm trying to get more into wearables.
I usually choose my project and then my yarn that is recommended for that piece. However, that is a good way to accumulate extra yarn and I don’t usually use it if I want to create another one like it. To be honest, that has never happened but, for some of my amigurumi. I am learning however, what yarn I like for baby blankets and that is cotton/bamboo. I also, have yarn I won’t use again and that is Lion Brand Thick and Quick. It pills like crazy and is rough. I agree, that YarnArt is my favorite for amigurumi! ❤
I must be blessed, cuz my Grandma taught me both the 2nd & 3rd chaining methods (60+ years ago), #3 precisely for the reason you mentioned: joining pieces after. However, I've just recently learned the alternative turning stitch; my Grandma would've loved that!💕
Great tips thanks! I have a couple to add: As far as yarn ends, incorporate these within the actual stitch (not crochet “over” them in the base of the row, and NOT “crocheting” them either!)… actually crochet the yarn end as you are crocheting by laying (weaving) the yarn end over your working at every “stage” of the stitch. (You could even go on to pick this up on the next row!). Joining in the round, don’t ss but take hook out of last stitch and pass through joining stitch from front to back. This puts the “seam” on the reverse side. Ending your crochet, don’t ss but pull yarn through last stitch and with needle pass through top of stitch on the beginning stitch you want to join to. Use standing stitches as much as possible (chain stitches really show up as they are much thinner than regular stitches). For super bulky yarns working “in the round” avoid joining ss and just do continuous crochet. (in effect spiralling the work). The bump created by ss really hurts especially for slippery soles etc. To avoid a hexagonal shape when in the round, make your increases at different places around your work. (Involves a bit of planning out, but using stitch markers this is quite doable). I’ve been crocheting for many years but it’s only been since YT and lovely people like Elise who take the time to share their work that I have become an improved crocheter ……. 😬
Thank you so much for the reminder about perfectionism. That’s ME ! I get so frustrated if my stitches aren’t exact. I will frog & frog until they are. I know that’s not good for me. So am trying hard to “let it go “. Practice makes perfect not stubbornness. 😂
Asa fiber artist that you are any "unusual stitches " or not perfect areas are Artist marks. That makes the work an original piece never to be duplicated. If the issue would only be noticed by you and not others, then when someone might notice something, you can say that these are placed as marks to show my original work and it can be noted by others as such. Stop trying for perfection and frogging, you are losing the enjoyment of making,
Loved all the tips. I use the stacked single crochet and work in the back bump on chains. I really like the way it makes the projects turn out. I appreciate the tips on blocking. It was always confusing which is the best way to block and you made it so clear!
15:29 i use a CH1 for sC & HDC, CH2 for DC and CH3 for TRC and don’t count it as a stitch, it’s just as seamless as your SC example without the fuss of stacked singles. Love the tips :)
@ i Ch2 for the height of the double crochet, if I’m using bulky yarn or a yarn where it won’t be as invisible i use chainless double crochet (turn, don’t chain anything, pull up loop on hook a bit, dc into the first stitch) and it leaves a seamless edge
Thanks for sharing the bit about everything not needing to be perfect. I just started crocheting around the beginning of December 2024 (I've made a hat, a small and medium octopus, and am n finishing up a blanket) I have learned to let the mistakes happen and learn from them. I'm noticing that I'm missing stitches quite often in my granny squares for the blanket. Instead of frogging them I'm letting this blanket be a learning and fun experience. No pressure, I'm learning from them as I go and it's definitely going to be cool in a year to look back and see the progress.
My mom taught me how to crochet when I was younger, and she did it with the back bump and it makes it looks really nice, and then once I started to watch pattern tutorials I was always so confused because others just did the top part but I will never change
16:10 I've been crocheting for about 2 years now (mostly amigurumi) but I just recently started doing clothing...I've learned to eyeball the last stitch but even with what I know to look for I STILL mess it up. Thank you so much for your stitch marker in the 1st and last stitch tip. Absolute game changer bc oh my goodness i just want straight edges!!!😂😂❤
I use the scented water you can get for ironing in my spray bottle when I'm blocking now. I'm extra like that, but I love how it makes the (in my case) blanket smell once dry. I use the clean linen fragrance which, of course, smells like freshly laundered clothes. I've not tried it in my steamer, but I'd imagine it'd work as it's made for ironing. Probably best to look into that, though, if you're thinking of trying it out 😊
Hi Elise, I’ve only just learnt about the turning stitch recently, before that when doing a double or treble crochet I would chain one and then do the dc or tr in the same stitch, it looks ok better than a chain 3. Love your vlogs I look forward to them all the time X
These are super tips! The ones I found most helpful are: the beginning chain and foundation, neat edges for double crochet stitches, and blocking. Many, many thanks!!! ❤❤❤
Yes went to the crafty website immediately after your announcement. The stacked single crochet for turning for the double crochet genius idea! This video was very informative. For the chain I go in both loops but I am going to try the other tips.
Great tips! I especially want to try the starting chain tip and the tip to get straighter edges. Even though I've been crocheting for a long time, there are always new things to learn! Thank you for these tips!
Hi Elise! I always learn something from your videos. Wanted to mention that I used to resist working into the "back bump" of my chain. But it looks so much nicer and as you mentioned...doesn't separate from the rest of my piece! Also love the reminder of using a stacked single crochet at the end/beginning of a double crochet row! 100% better!!! Thank you Elise!
The more you stretch your creativity and try different projects the more you learn and the more satisfying it is to complete the project. I’m also never bored or lose my crojo because I’m always mixing up the projects. Favorite tips- invisible join, double knot for joining yarn, standing sc or dc to join new color, and count your stitches after each row or use stitch markers! Great video! 😊🧶
I love your videos. Even though I have been crocheting for several years, I am still learning from them. In addition, you convey knowledge in such a way that I don't blame myself for making mistakes, but rather it's something like - oh my gosh, that's why I didn't do it well. I'm waiting for the next one.
This is a fantastic video Elise! Thank you! I feel like I’m an about an “advanced beginner” but I still sometimes have a little difficulty w some of these things.
Great instruction on the swatches, even though I never do this. I rarely make clothes so it doesn't matter if my afghan or toy is a couple of inches off. I would like two add that you should use a light color to see those stitches. I just learned about the sc on the chain. And how to correctly do the last stitch in the afghan stitch. Game changers for me! So many patterns have you do a row of sc around and now I don't need this.
I've always gone under the middle & top strand of the starting chain. Going under just the top one is kind of new to me. When I learned crochet from illustrations in a Woman's Day magazine in 1971, they showed going under 2....so I always have. Along the way, I learned about turning the chain over & going in that back bar. And the article & patterns since then have always said ch 2 when turning for DC. But yeah, it still leaves a gap ...so good to know a way around that! ( 1 ch to turn for SC, 2 for DC & 3 for trc.) I block some things. It can greatly improve the appearance of some projects. I remember a hat that looked bunchy right after I made it.. but blocking straightened it out...looked nice then! And when I make wall hanging or window covering w/ a size 7 steel hook & #10 crochet thread, blocking makes it look SO much better ! Thanks, Elise. Always enjoy your channel. 🙋♀️
Love love love your videos except thanks to you I now have another hobby - amigurumi. That’s in addition to hand needlework, quilting and regular crocheting not to mention reading. Keep inspiring us, you are a very talented lady!❤
I can't remember what they are called but they are just small embroidery scissors, but they are nice because they have a little cap that covers the points! ✂️
Chain-less foundation row is something everyone should learn - it is so much faster than dealing with having to count chains and makes the base as stretchy as the rest of the project.
I don't mind it but it often makes the size of whatever I'm making much too big. If I do chainless, I end up going down one or two hook sizes. It just depends on my mood.
The one thing I do that changes the entire game for me was learning to fix things, like missing a stitch in the prev row, having too many or too few foundation chains. The fixes aren’t always perfect but thanks to them, I no longer have to frog out like hundreds of stitches and redo them
This was super useful! I really liked the back bump for the first row, that was an area I've not liked about the couple projects I've done. Great work!
I watch your videos every week and this is my favorite of them all!! Thank you for passing along these tips. I'm not a seasoned crocheter so these are very helpful.
I've crochet for over 40 years, and learned so much from this video! I loved your advice on the first row to use those "bump" stitches on the back to make the first row so much nicer and stronger. And on the end row where you usually chain three, I'm taking your advice on that too! Thanks so much.
thank you so much Elise! This video was by far the most helpful to me as an advanced beginner! Keep them coming, I wouldn't be where I am without your videos.
Great video Elise, thank you so much! I am a self-taught lefty via UA-cam and I've been crocheting for more then 10 years now. How right you are, one can always learn more no matter how long you have been honing your craft! I so appreciate your slow and focused beginning chain section! Just a few weeks ago I decided to see what the "flip your chain and work into the back bump" was all about; however, I know now that I stillI wasn't placing my hook in the correct place. Thanks to your slow review of two methods, I will now have a beginning chain that looks great and holds the weight of my project. You're the best! 🤩
Thank you, this was wonderful! My aunt taught me to crochet very many years ago, but there were many years in between where I did other crafts instead. Now I have picked it up again, and she is gone to ask, and I have wondered about the row after the chain. This was the best information!
Thank you for all of these tips! Also, thank you for the Craftsy discount! Had to give up craftsy due to cost, thrilled to have it back for another year. You are amazing❤
I crochet into the back bump for my first row. I also crochet single stitches across the beginning chains because it makes it more sturdy. By crocheting into the back bumps only, I have the two v like stitches for when I crochet the border.
Again another informative video!!! Being an old dog, I’m amazed at the new tricks I’m learning from you!!!! Been with you over four years and loving every minute 🥰
What a helpful video. I’ve been crocheting for over a year and piecing together these tips and tricks. But even with my efforts, you still clarified and cleaned up some of my lingering habits. I especially liked the tip about turning when you double crocheting. As always, your videos are wonderful.
Hey all! great tips - especially the stacked single to replace the ch 3 for dc's - one other tip I would give to beginners like me - don't make the mistake of going for the cheapest kit and yarn you can find to get started with - it is tempting to do this because you don't know if crochet is something you will get into, so you don't want to invest a lot initially - fair enough, BUT this is ultimately a false economy - cheap kit can be ok (if you're lucky!) but sometimes it can actually make it harder to learn if the hooks are wonky or the yarn is breaking or fraying or stitches are hard to see - A mid priced set of hooks is worth it, just to avoid snagging on yarn etc, and look for yarn that is popular in the local crochet/knitting communities - they are often already tried and tested and usually good value for money!
This was extremely helpful!!! Especially the hook size for the chain foundation vs the rest of the project. Now I know why I start having a trapezoid side. ❤ And I need to do a gauge swatch 😃
I would add two things to your list. Not everyone chains too tightly for the foundation chain. I chain too loose and my tension gets tighter as I crochet. So you may need to go down a hook size. Also be flexible. Depending on your project you may want to chain three for the turning chain/first stitch of the row because the stacked single can be more bulky than the stitch sequence that follows. Filet crochet would be a good example. Stacked single could stick out from the other DC in the row. Not always but be flexible with this. Love the explanation about gage. I don't do that enough. Thank you.
I have a jar labeled "Pet Peve's". I put the knots from skeins in it. The most knots I came across in one skein was five! So far. I haven't been through that whole cake. I stopped using that cake of yarn after the 5th knot and wasn't even half way through the it! I've used several different color ways of that yarn and the majority of them have had knots. The killer with most of those knots is the color abruptly changed and the colors tied were out of sequence. I've even bought from different stores thinking maybe one store might be getting a lesser quality...nope. Same results. I did have a few cakes without knots but the many outweigh the few. I've stopped buying that particular yarn. It kills me too because I love their colors. I pick up a cake exploring the look and feel, enjoying the thoughts and uses of the product but then remember "...the knots!" Put it back. 😞 🙅♀️ Mandala.
A good tip is knowing when to stop and take a time out from a project. If you find yourself making a lot of mistakes while making a bigger project or one with repetitive stitches taking a time out and doing something else for a while (read. Stretch, household tasks) helps to reset your mind/concentration and helps to improve on less frogging and frustrating.
Love the tips you shared, thanks I’ll put all on practice, the one I like better is the how to replace the double crochet starting row! I use another method where you make like fault double crochet but I think I would try this method and see which one looks better for me. Thanks, I’m so glad I found your channel!
Thank you for your explanations of why blocking is beneficial. I haven't been blocking yet.... Now I know why size and shape seem to change in my end results due to my lack of blocking. I'm going to check out the classes on Craftsy about both Know Your Yarn ( I love yarney nerdy things) and the ones about blocking.
I am guilty of being impatient and too excited about my new yarn to do a gauge swatch. Also the stitching into the back bump is something I need to try on my next project! This video is so good. It’s all these little things that add up to be big pet peeves. The turning chain, the stretched out foundation row, yarn didn’t turn out with the result you wanted or expected.
I saw a short you did once on steam blocking acrylic granny squares. Totally saved the day for my niece’s baby blanket. And thank you for sharing the chain techniques! It’s definitely going to upgrade my projects. Could you do a video just on amigurumi sewing techniques? I rarely see tips that aren’t embedded into a specific project, but as someone new to amigurumi but has been crocheting for decades, the sewing is the most intimidating part.
I like to use heavy yarn for my blankets. When I cover up and it has that weight to it, it makes me feel safe and secure and warm and just cozy. Especially in the winter.
@EliseRoseCrochet I crochet my first blanket after my gallbladder surgery. And I ended up with a king size blanket. It's heavy but warm. And made out of bernat blanket yarn.
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I’m the person who puts yarn in the cart solely because I like the colors 😂 I’ll try to remember this video next time I go to the yarn shop 😊
Haha!! I used to do that too!! 🧶🧶🧶
Thats me!!
I'm a combo color/texture person. You would not believe how many skeins of Caron Simply Soft I have because I walked past and said, "oooh... pretty..." or "wouldn't those two colors be nummy together?"
@JadeScarlett Same girl. I just go for pretty colors and worry about it later.
That’s me!
Love the tip about starting a new row of double crochet with a single crochet topped with another single crochet instead of a chain 3.
It looks so much neater!
Hey Elise!
I have some comments on the tips you've mentioned, I also have a tip or two of my own!
Best Yarn for projects - This is key for MANY reasons, especially if you are following someone else's pattern. Stretch and gauge, being able to match the creator's gauge is just ONE consideration. Cotton barely stretches, cotton blends do a little better. I've not used wool yet so I can't tell about stretch and drape for those. Acrylic stretches the best. But again, this isn't the only concern. On certain projects, like wearables, you also need to consider breathability. Are you making a garment for Spring/Summer months? Then you want cotton or a cotton blend, because they breathe better. Need something for warmth? Acrylic, wool, plushy type yarns, velvet or velour yarns work best. You also need to consider WHO is going to be using what you make. Is it a newborn or infant? A baby older than 3 mos, but less than a year? Toddlers, small children, teenagers and adults? All of these also need to be taken into consideration. Newborns and infants can get overheated easily, so you have to think about that, but you also need to think about the fact their limbs are weaker, may not have complete range of motion. Putting something on an infant using worsted weight yarn, might be too bulky for the infant, and could actually cause harm when trying to get that infant into the garment. Personally, I wouldn't go higher than a fine, or fingering weight yarn for infants and newborns, I wouldn't go past a 3 weight or dk weight when crocheting wearables for babies over 3 mos but less than a year. I would save worsted weight yarns until after they are a year old. Baby blankets you can almost use anything, because they aren't wearable. I would still use a cotton/cotton blend for spring/summer and acrylic, plushy etc for fall/winter months. I would try not to use anything higher than a dk weight for babies under 1 year old. NEVER use wool or wool blends for babies under 2. Their skin is still very delicate and can get easily irritated with wool/wool blends. Also, if there are going to be allergies, those usually develop within the first 2 years. Wool is the most common fiber for allergies.
Gauge Swatching - I will admit, I don't do this when I'm creating my own patterns. Well, I do, but not until the end of the project. I only swatch if I'm following someone else's patterns. However, I will say this. After you've been crocheting for a while, you will start to get a feel for your own tension. Once you have been crocheting for a while, your tension, along with other aspects of crocheting will become consistent, and if you consistently crochet with a tighter tension, you know to always pick up a larger hook.
Crochet chain and the first stitches - I'm one of those that put my stitches in the spine (the back bumps) of the chain. I highly recommend this for many reasons. 1. The finished edge. Like Elise showed, when you use the spine, once you have completed your first row you have what looks like a finished edge on your project. The edge of your project has the same v's as the top of your project. 2. If you have to crochet into that chain at another time, like crocheting a border, that beginning chain is not going to pull away from the rest of your stitches, so there won't be gaps between your border and the rest of your work. 3. If you decide NOT to create a border, you already have a neat, finished edge.
Foundation chain Hook Size - Going up a hook size is a good idea, if you aren't consistent with chaining. But what do you do if you don't HAVE the next size up? Going up 2 sizes (or more) can present its own problems, so here is an alternative. It may take you a little longer in the beginning until you get used to it, but what you can do is each time you start to make a chain, slide the loop on your hook to the WIDEST point of your hook. If you are using the old Boye hooks, that's the flat space where you normally put your thumb when you are crocheting. If you have ergonomic hooks, like I do, it's the point where the metal hook meets the handle. For Furls hooks (or others), pick a spot on the hook that is wider than the hook itself, then mark it with a Sharpe. When you got to make the chain, pull the loop back to that point. It gives you a wider chain, that won't tighten up as much when you start crocheting.
When doing double crochets, I use the stacking single crochet, myself! The cool thing about the stacking single crochet, is that you can stack it as high as you need. Treble crochet? Stack 3 times. You just keep stacking until you have the height you need!
Stitch Markers - THESE ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND!!! I've been crocheting for over 30 years, and I STILL use stitch markers at the beginning and end of the row, especially if I'm working a stitch for the first time. But there are other ways you can utilize stitch markers. I don't have a row counter (mine broke), and even when I did, I'm one of those that forget to change the counter after every row. So I make a habit of marking every 5 rows. That way, I keep track of my row count. If I'm supposed to increase or decrease at a certain point in a pattern, I will count those stitches and mark them, so I don't forget. Stitch markers are invaluable!!!
Cutting and reknotting knots in yarn - I cannot stress this enough!!! I have actually had projects fall apart due to knots coming apart. I will go one step further. Some people would rather reknot the yarn. I suggest using the Magic Knot. If you look up magic knot on You Tube, there are PLENTY of tutorials on how to do this. The cool thing about the magic knot is the more you pull on it, the tighter it gets, and it WON'T come undone, even if you cut the yarn ends up right beside the knot.
Blocking - The ONLY thing I don't block, is adult sized blankets, and that's only because I don't have a blocking board (or space in my house) big enough to block an adult sized blanket. I also don't block hats. But I block just about everything else.
Perfectionism - Perfectionism in just about ANYTHING can only be achieved by using machines. You are almost NEVER going to find a handmade item that doesn't have a flaw or an imperfection. That's okay!!! In fact, a lot of time, it's those little imperfections that give the item its charm! When people are looking for hand-crafted items, they are NOT looking for perfection, they are looking for something unique, something that was made with love and care, creativity and effort. Learn from mistakes you make, but don't let them stop you. If you are looking for perfection in what you make, you are setting yourself up to fail.
Now a tip or two of my own!
Yarn ends - a lot of us like to crochet over yarn ends so we don't have to deal with them at the end of our project. Others (like me) HATE weaving in yarn ends. But they can still pull out eventually, and your project can unravel. I discovered a way to keep them from pulling out. When you have yarn ends at the end of a row - Start the next row, crochet 2 or 3 stitches. Pull your hook out of the current loop (make sure lengthen the loop so you don't lose the stitches you just made), and go back to the first ACTUAL stitch you made (not a chain stitch). Look at the top of the stitch where the V is. Stick your hook down THROUGH the V and continue through the bottom of the stitch (if it's a sc or an hsc) or through the top leg of the stitch (if it's a dc or higher). Use the hook to grab those yarn ends, then pull them up through the stitch, until the yarn ends are sticking out of the top of the V. Then you leave them be, and crochet over them in the next row. The cool thing is, you can do this more than once and believe me, they WILL NOT come undone! But what if you have to frog back? Well, I learned this the hard way. You can't frog past the point you pulled those yarn ends up and through, UNTIL you pull them out again. That's easy, just go to the bottom of the stitch (or where you pulled them up through) and gently pull on those yarn ends, pulling them back out of the stitch. Then you can continue to frog back to where you need to.
Corner stitches - This is a trick I learned from watching a You Tube video, and it really works. Sometimes you don't want to do a stitch, ch 1, stitch in a corner. You want the corner to be full, which usually means 3 stitches in the corner which usually gives you a rounded corner. But what if you don't want a rounded corner? What if you want a square corner? Simply use an elongated version of the stitch you are using for that middle stitch. You start the stitch as normal, yarn over, and pull through JUST ONE loop. Then yarn over and complete the stitch as normal. This makes that middle stitch just slightly taller, which gives you a squared corner.
I hope these comments and tips help you! May your projects always put a smile on your face!
These are fantastic tips!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share!!! 🧶🧶🧶
Awesome, can never have too many tips! Thank you. 😊
I'm glad you are giving tips on blocking. I don't think it is talked about enough.
I'm glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
I'm still trying to figure out what the purpose of blocking is? I crotchet stuff into the shape I want it, but the stuff she seems to be blocking are things that are going to get washed anyway, so why not just wash it?
This is an outstanding video!!! I started crocheting 55+ years ago and wish I would have had this tutorial to answer my many questions. So many times I put crocheting aside. If I couldn't figure out a way around an obstacle I'd move on to a different craft. Thank you, Elise, for making this go-to for current and future makers. Also, congratulations on obtaining your certification!
I'm so glad it was helpful!! And thank you so much! 🧶🧶🧶
Love opening UA-cam to see the little dot next to your profile pic!! New video! Woohoo!! 🎉🎉🎉
Thanks so much!!! I'm so glad you're here! 🧶🧶🧶
Same hah!
ME TOO!!!!
Me three!
My husband and I have began purging things in the basement. We came across projects (knitted and crocheted) that I had begun more than 15 years ago as a novice. Wow! I was mortified! They were a crazy mix of yarns and colors! Almost random in the combinations. I realized that we have to be intentional in our designs and projects 😊.
It's so much fun to look back and see how we evolved as crafters! 🧶🧶🧶
😂 I have a few ugly sweaters myself❤
Great tips! I’ve crocheted 16 years but literally never stop learning. Sometimes I just refuse to do things the “right” way because I’m stubborn, then finally cave and I’m so glad I took the time to do it correctly ❤❤
Haha, we've all been there! 🧶🧶🧶
oh bless you ive been waiting for this! please show us all your little tricks even for different stitches.
I'm so glad you found it helpful! 🧶
That first tip is gold! I should know it, but I look at my completed project and oops! Once again that is NOT what that yarn wanted to be when it grew up.😅
Love your videos so much!
Haha!! Love how you worded that!! 🧶🧶🧶
That’s exactly the feeling I have had on too many projects. 🫣
I am also a seasoned crocheter (67 years old this June). I am so happy for your channel. I learn something new every time. I especially like the stacking of sc's at the beginning of a row.
My number one tip for preventing woven in ends from popping out is to felt over the stitches where you wove it in. Just take a sharp needle, place the work on something that won't mind being stabbed, and press the needle into the place where the end is woven in about six or seven times going through all the fabric (no more than thisxas you don'twant the fabric to go fuzzy). Pull gentle on the yarn end to be sure it won't move, then snip the tail close as usual. The end will never poke out, even after washing. This works with acrylic, wool and cotton yarns.
Great tip! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Good tip, I'll try it!
Hi Elise I'm 76 this year crocheting since I was 18 but still learning new things all the time.i love your channel.thanks so much for bringing such joy .💖💖💖
You are so welcome! ❤️❤️❤️
"Continue to learn" so true! I've been crocheting since I was 8 years old. I'm now 60 and learning really great tips and tricks. Love that the younger generation has picked it up and improved on it.
These are good tips, thank you. I would add one more: time a test section of the pattern. When I have done these tests, I can better judge how long the project will take. Then I allot time for it, or shelve it because I don't have time. Because of this, I meet deadlines better, and I no longer have forever projects.
That's such a great tip!!! ⏰ Thank you for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I make a lot of snowflakes and found that the tiny steel hooks are hard to hold. I took one of your tips and tried a makeup sponge. Works fabulous!! I put one sponge lengthwise on the bottom of the hook. It makes holding the hook very comfortable and allows my fingers to work the hook. Linda/Holden, MA
I’m so glad to hear that worked for you! That’s such a great tip, thank you for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you very for all the tips and tricks. It helps me a lot to improve my skill. Have a great weekend 😊
You're so welcome! ❤️
I've never done a gauge before I loved the way you explained it! I've been crocheting mostly kitchen items and bathroom items but I'm trying to get more into wearables.
Yay! It makes a big difference for clothing! 🧶🧶🧶
I usually choose my project and then my yarn that is recommended for that piece. However, that is a good way to accumulate extra yarn and I don’t usually use it if I want to create another one like it. To be honest, that has never happened but, for some of my amigurumi. I am learning however, what yarn I like for baby blankets and that is cotton/bamboo. I also, have yarn I won’t use again and that is Lion Brand Thick and Quick. It pills like crazy and is rough. I agree, that YarnArt is my favorite for amigurumi! ❤
Thank you so much for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I must be blessed, cuz my Grandma taught me both the 2nd & 3rd chaining methods (60+ years ago), #3 precisely for the reason you mentioned: joining pieces after. However, I've just recently learned the alternative turning stitch; my Grandma would've loved that!💕
Great tips thanks!
I have a couple to add:
As far as yarn ends, incorporate these within the actual stitch (not crochet “over” them in the base of the row, and NOT “crocheting” them either!)… actually crochet the yarn end as you are crocheting by laying (weaving) the yarn end over your working at every “stage” of the stitch. (You could even go on to pick this up on the next row!).
Joining in the round, don’t ss but take hook out of last stitch and pass through joining stitch from front to back. This puts the “seam” on the reverse side.
Ending your crochet, don’t ss but pull yarn through last stitch and with needle pass through top of stitch on the beginning stitch you want to join to.
Use standing stitches as much as possible (chain stitches really show up as they are much thinner than regular stitches).
For super bulky yarns working “in the round” avoid joining ss and just do continuous crochet. (in effect spiralling the work). The bump created by ss really hurts especially for slippery soles etc.
To avoid a hexagonal shape when in the round, make your increases at different places around your work. (Involves a bit of planning out, but using stitch markers this is quite doable).
I’ve been crocheting for many years but it’s only been since YT and lovely people like Elise who take the time to share their work that I have become an improved crocheter ……. 😬
Thank you so much for the reminder about perfectionism. That’s ME ! I get so frustrated if my stitches aren’t exact. I will frog & frog until they are. I know that’s not good for me. So am trying hard to “let it go “. Practice makes perfect not stubbornness. 😂
It's so hard to let go, but it really does make a difference! 🧶
Asa fiber artist that you are any "unusual stitches " or not perfect areas are Artist marks. That makes the work an original piece never to be duplicated. If the issue would only be noticed by you and not others, then when someone might notice something, you can say that these are placed as marks to show my original work and it can be noted by others as such. Stop trying for perfection and frogging, you are losing the enjoyment of making,
Everything is so good to know. Thank you for sharing.
You are so welcome! 🤗
Elise, thanks for all your helpful tip.
You're very welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
Loved all the tips. I use the stacked single crochet and work in the back bump on chains. I really like the way it makes the projects turn out. I appreciate the tips on blocking. It was always confusing which is the best way to block and you made it so clear!
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Holy cow! I never knew about the stacked single crochet instead of a chain 3 turning chain. Thank you so much for that tip. You’re the best! 😊😊😊
It really does make a difference! 🧶🧶🧶
15:29 i use a CH1 for sC & HDC, CH2 for DC and CH3 for TRC and don’t count it as a stitch, it’s just as seamless as your SC example without the fuss of stacked singles.
Love the tips :)
If you don’t count as a stitch, why wouldn’t you always just ch 1? Doesn’t chaining 2 and still working into the first stitch look too bulky?
@ i Ch2 for the height of the double crochet, if I’m using bulky yarn or a yarn where it won’t be as invisible i use chainless double crochet (turn, don’t chain anything, pull up loop on hook a bit, dc into the first stitch) and it leaves a seamless edge
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Thanks for sharing the bit about everything not needing to be perfect. I just started crocheting around the beginning of December 2024 (I've made a hat, a small and medium octopus, and am n finishing up a blanket) I have learned to let the mistakes happen and learn from them. I'm noticing that I'm missing stitches quite often in my granny squares for the blanket. Instead of frogging them I'm letting this blanket be a learning and fun experience. No pressure, I'm learning from them as I go and it's definitely going to be cool in a year to look back and see the progress.
My mom taught me how to crochet when I was younger, and she did it with the back bump and it makes it looks really nice, and then once I started to watch pattern tutorials I was always so confused because others just did the top part but I will never change
16:10 I've been crocheting for about 2 years now (mostly amigurumi) but I just recently started doing clothing...I've learned to eyeball the last stitch but even with what I know to look for I STILL mess it up. Thank you so much for your stitch marker in the 1st and last stitch tip. Absolute game changer bc oh my goodness i just want straight edges!!!😂😂❤
Haha!! Yes!! It's so much easier to spot those stitches if you just mark them when you make them! 🧶🧶🧶
Thanks for all these awesome tips😊❤ specially how to make the first stitch at 14:30 will be very useful for me.
I'm so glad you found them helpful! ❤️🧶
This was so helpful! As a new crocheter, I'd love more of these!! Thanks for your expertise
Glad it was helpful! ❤️
I use the scented water you can get for ironing in my spray bottle when I'm blocking now. I'm extra like that, but I love how it makes the (in my case) blanket smell once dry. I use the clean linen fragrance which, of course, smells like freshly laundered clothes. I've not tried it in my steamer, but I'd imagine it'd work as it's made for ironing. Probably best to look into that, though, if you're thinking of trying it out 😊
Thanks for the tip! 💨🧶❤️
Just clicked on your link and am now Craftsy member! Thanks!
You are going to love it! It's such a great resource! 🧶🧶🧶
Hi Elise, I’ve only just learnt about the turning stitch recently, before that when doing a double or treble crochet I would chain one and then do the dc or tr in the same stitch, it looks ok better than a chain 3. Love your vlogs I look forward to them all the time X
Thank you so much! ❤️
These are super tips! The ones I found most helpful are: the beginning chain and foundation, neat edges for double crochet stitches, and blocking. Many, many thanks!!!
❤❤❤
I'm so glad those tips were helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Yes went to the crafty website immediately after your announcement. The stacked single crochet for turning for the double crochet genius idea! This video was very informative. For the chain I go in both loops but I am going to try the other tips.
So glad you found it helpful! 🧶
Great tips! I especially want to try the starting chain tip and the tip to get straighter edges. Even though I've been crocheting for a long time, there are always new things to learn! Thank you for these tips!
Hi Elise! I always learn something from your videos. Wanted to mention that I used to resist working into the "back bump" of my chain. But it looks so much nicer and as you mentioned...doesn't separate from the rest of my piece! Also love the reminder of using a stacked single crochet at the end/beginning of a double crochet row! 100% better!!! Thank you Elise!
I'm so glad they've been helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
The more you stretch your creativity and try different projects the more you learn and the more satisfying it is to complete the project. I’m also never bored or lose my crojo because I’m always mixing up the projects. Favorite tips- invisible join, double knot for joining yarn, standing sc or dc to join new color, and count your stitches after each row or use stitch markers! Great video! 😊🧶
Thank you so much for sharing your tips!!! 🧶🧶🧶
I love your videos. Even though I have been crocheting for several years, I am still learning from them. In addition, you convey knowledge in such a way that I don't blame myself for making mistakes, but rather it's something like - oh my gosh, that's why I didn't do it well. I'm waiting for the next one.
Everyone makes mistakes and I have found them to be my best teachers!! 🧶🧶🧶
Excellent Tips! Thank you so much for this fantastic video!!!
This is a fantastic video Elise! Thank you! I feel like I’m an about an “advanced beginner” but I still sometimes have a little difficulty w some of these things.
I'm so glad you found it helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you so much. I'll be using that stacked single next project. Marking the beginning and end has always helped me.😊😊
I'm so glad it helped! 🧶🧶🧶
Great instruction on the swatches, even though I never do this. I rarely make clothes so it doesn't matter if my afghan or toy is a couple of inches off. I would like two add that you should use a light color to see those stitches.
I just learned about the sc on the chain. And how to correctly do the last stitch in the afghan stitch. Game changers for me! So many patterns have you do a row of sc around and now I don't need this.
I am definitely going to try the two different foundation chains!
It's so much fun to experiment to see what works best! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you so much for these tips, they will help me in my crochet journey. I've only been crocheting for about 6 months now.
Glad to help! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for the tips. Can’t wait to try the new to me tip for double crochet turning chain substitute
I'm glad it was helpful!! 🧶🧶🧶
I enjoy the style of your videos. Would love to see something about mosiac.
Check out @juniperandoakes 🧶 She is the mosaic crochet queen! 👑
I recently found you, and you have no idea how badly I needed these tips. Thank you! Also - I just nabbed that Craftsy code. What a deal!
I've always gone under the middle & top strand of the starting chain. Going under just the top one is kind of new to me. When I learned crochet from illustrations in a Woman's Day magazine in 1971, they showed going under 2....so I always have. Along the way, I learned about turning the chain over & going in that back bar.
And the article & patterns since then have always said ch 2 when turning for DC. But yeah, it still leaves a gap ...so good to know a way around that! ( 1 ch to turn for SC, 2 for DC & 3 for trc.)
I block some things. It can greatly improve the appearance of some projects. I remember a hat that looked bunchy right after I made it.. but blocking straightened it out...looked nice then!
And when I make wall hanging or window covering w/ a size 7 steel hook & #10 crochet thread, blocking makes it look SO much better !
Thanks, Elise. Always enjoy your channel. 🙋♀️
Hello lovely Elise😊, fantastic video full of great tips. Blocking is something I have avoided but I am not scared now thank u. Love and prayers 💗💗💗🙏🙏🙏
It's such a game-changer! 🧶🧶🧶
For turning chain I’ve always chained 1 for half double and 2 for double. I’ve never heard of chain 3 for double.
Yep, chain 3 is pretty standard for double crochet (US terms) 🧶🧶🧶🧶
Love love love your videos except thanks to you I now have another hobby - amigurumi. That’s in addition to hand needlework, quilting and regular crocheting not to mention reading. Keep inspiring us, you are a very talented lady!❤
That's wonderful! I'm so happy my videos are inspiring you to explore new crafts! 💕
Great tips and tricks, thanks so much for sharing. Please share the type of scissors you used in this video?
I can't remember what they are called but they are just small embroidery scissors, but they are nice because they have a little cap that covers the points! ✂️
What a lovely video, thank you! I'm new to crochet and a perfectionist, so that last tip was probably the best one for me, personally.
It’s so important to learn to let go of perfection!! 🧶🧶🧶
Chain-less foundation row is something everyone should learn - it is so much faster than dealing with having to count chains and makes the base as stretchy as the rest of the project.
Thank you for sharing! I don't use that technique but I know a lot of people swear by it! 🧶🧶🧶
Yesss! Just learned that technique recently, and I LOVE it!!🎯💕
I don't mind it but it often makes the size of whatever I'm making much too big. If I do chainless, I end up going down one or two hook sizes. It just depends on my mood.
The one thing I do that changes the entire game for me was learning to fix things, like missing a stitch in the prev row, having too many or too few foundation chains. The fixes aren’t always perfect but thanks to them, I no longer have to frog out like hundreds of stitches and redo them
Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
This was super useful! I really liked the back bump for the first row, that was an area I've not liked about the couple projects I've done. Great work!
It really does create such a clean edge! 🧶🧶🧶
what a lovely ending too.... Inspiring video.
Glad you enjoyed it! ❤️❤️❤️
I watch your videos every week and this is my favorite of them all!! Thank you for passing along these tips. I'm not a seasoned crocheter so these are very helpful.
I'm so glad! ❤️❤️❤️
I've crochet for over 40 years, and learned so much from this video! I loved your advice on the first row to use those "bump" stitches on the back to make the first row so much nicer and stronger. And on the end row where you usually chain three, I'm taking your advice on that too! Thanks so much.
Glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
thank you so much Elise! This video was by far the most helpful to me as an advanced beginner! Keep them coming, I wouldn't be where I am without your videos.
I'm so glad! ❤️❤️❤️
Great video Elise, thank you so much! I am a self-taught lefty via UA-cam and I've been crocheting for more then 10 years now. How right you are, one can always learn more no matter how long you have been honing your craft! I so appreciate your slow and focused beginning chain section! Just a few weeks ago I decided to see what the "flip your chain and work into the back bump" was all about; however, I know now that I stillI wasn't placing my hook in the correct place. Thanks to your slow review of two methods, I will now have a beginning chain that looks great and holds the weight of my project. You're the best! 🤩
That's awesome! Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
thank you for talking about blocking! I am working with lace yarn for the first time and needing to block the project.
Thank you, this was wonderful! My aunt taught me to crochet very many years ago, but there were many years in between where I did other crafts instead. Now I have picked it up again, and she is gone to ask, and I have wondered about the row after the chain. This was the best information!
I'm so glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Wow! This is amazing info. I never knew i should do a gauge or use the backloop and the horizontal loop on a chain. This will make my crochet better.
Glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for all of these tips! Also, thank you for the Craftsy discount! Had to give up craftsy due to cost, thrilled to have it back for another year. You are amazing❤
You're welcome! I'm glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
I crochet into the back bump for my first row. I also crochet single stitches across the beginning chains because it makes it more sturdy. By crocheting into the back bumps only, I have the two v like stitches for when I crochet the border.
It really makes such a nice edge! 🧶🧶🧶
Again another informative video!!! Being an old dog, I’m amazed at the new tricks I’m learning from you!!!! Been with you over four years and loving every minute 🥰
Awww! 🥰 Thank you so very much! 🧶🧶🧶
What a helpful video. I’ve been crocheting for over a year and piecing together these tips and tricks. But even with my efforts, you still clarified and cleaned up some of my lingering habits. I especially liked the tip about turning when you double crocheting. As always, your videos are wonderful.
Glad it was helpful! ❤️❤️❤️
@ could we do a crochet along on your channel this year?
Hey all! great tips - especially the stacked single to replace the ch 3 for dc's - one other tip I would give to beginners like me - don't make the mistake of going for the cheapest kit and yarn you can find to get started with - it is tempting to do this because you don't know if crochet is something you will get into, so you don't want to invest a lot initially - fair enough, BUT this is ultimately a false economy - cheap kit can be ok (if you're lucky!) but sometimes it can actually make it harder to learn if the hooks are wonky or the yarn is breaking or fraying or stitches are hard to see - A mid priced set of hooks is worth it, just to avoid snagging on yarn etc, and look for yarn that is popular in the local crochet/knitting communities - they are often already tried and tested and usually good value for money!
Excellent tips!!! Great video!
Glad it was helpful! 🧶
This was extremely helpful!!! Especially the hook size for the chain foundation vs the rest of the project. Now I know why I start having a trapezoid side. ❤
And I need to do a gauge swatch 😃
One of the best examples of alternative turning chains I've seen! Thanks for the clear tutorials!
You're very welcome! ❤️
Great tips❤
Glad you liked them!
I love the new ways to anchor my chain. I hate that mu first row is loose and has gaps.
I'm so glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
I would add two things to your list. Not everyone chains too tightly for the foundation chain. I chain too loose and my tension gets tighter as I crochet. So you may need to go down a hook size. Also be flexible. Depending on your project you may want to chain three for the turning chain/first stitch of the row because the stacked single can be more bulky than the stitch sequence that follows. Filet crochet would be a good example. Stacked single could stick out from the other DC in the row. Not always but be flexible with this.
Love the explanation about gage. I don't do that enough. Thank you.
Thank you so much for sharing your tips!! 🧶🧶🧶
I have a jar labeled "Pet Peve's". I put the knots from skeins in it. The most knots I came across in one skein was five! So far. I haven't been through that whole cake. I stopped using that cake of yarn after the 5th knot and wasn't even half way through the it! I've used several different color ways of that yarn and the majority of them have had knots. The killer with most of those knots is the color abruptly changed and the colors tied were out of sequence. I've even bought from different stores thinking maybe one store might be getting a lesser quality...nope. Same results. I did have a few cakes without knots but the many outweigh the few. I've stopped buying that particular yarn. It kills me too because I love their colors. I pick up a cake exploring the look and feel, enjoying the thoughts and uses of the product but then remember "...the knots!" Put it back. 😞 🙅♀️ Mandala.
Love love your yarn wall background ❤
A good tip is knowing when to stop and take a time out from a project. If you find yourself making a lot of mistakes while making a bigger project or one with repetitive stitches taking a time out and doing something else for a while (read. Stretch, household tasks) helps to reset your mind/concentration and helps to improve on less frogging and frustrating.
That's a great tip! It's so important to take breaks! 🧶🧶🧶
Love the tips you shared, thanks I’ll put all on practice, the one I like better is the how to replace the double crochet starting row! I use another method where you make like fault double crochet but I think I would try this method and see which one looks better for me. Thanks, I’m so glad I found your channel!
Thank you for the great Craftsy deal.
It really is a great deal for new members! So many amazing classes on Craftsy! 🧶🧶🧶
this video was so helpful! thank you
You're so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
Elise thanks for sharing. I gauge swatch all my wearables. I agree with you that this is extremely important for correct fitting.
I'm so glad you agree! It really makes a difference! 🧶🧶🧶
I absolutely love your tips! Never took the plunge to steam block. I probably should.. Thanks for these videos. ❤
I'm so glad you found them helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Great video. I can't miss any!
Thank you so much! ❤️
Really enjoyed this video. Especially the stacked single. Been crocheting for about 60 years and have always hated that hole.
Me too!! I wish I had learned the stacked single crochet earlier! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for your explanations of why blocking is beneficial. I haven't been blocking yet.... Now I know why size and shape seem to change in my end results due to my lack of blocking. I'm going to check out the classes on Craftsy about both Know Your Yarn ( I love yarney nerdy things) and the ones about blocking.
Wonderful! So glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
This is so helpful -Elise thank you ❤
You're so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
I am guilty of being impatient and too excited about my new yarn to do a gauge swatch. Also the stitching into the back bump is something I need to try on my next project! This video is so good. It’s all these little things that add up to be big pet peeves. The turning chain, the stretched out foundation row, yarn didn’t turn out with the result you wanted or expected.
It really makes a difference when you take the time to do all the little things! 🧶🧶🧶
This video is very helpful. Thank you 😊
You’re welcome 😊
Thank you so much for these beautiful tips ,it's very helpful, I'm a beginner from miami fL, thank you again and God bless you 🙏 ❤
Thank you!! This is so helpful!!❤❤❤
I'm so glad you found it helpful!! ❤️🧶
❤️❤️❤️
Fantastic tutorial 😊
Thanks so much! 😊
Thanks so much for all the tips, Elise!
You're very welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
I saw a short you did once on steam blocking acrylic granny squares. Totally saved the day for my niece’s baby blanket. And thank you for sharing the chain techniques! It’s definitely going to upgrade my projects. Could you do a video just on amigurumi sewing techniques? I rarely see tips that aren’t embedded into a specific project, but as someone new to amigurumi but has been crocheting for decades, the sewing is the most intimidating part.
Thank you for the suggestion! That is on my list of videos to make! 🧶🧶🧶
These are great tops to end my day
I'm so glad you enjoyed them! 🧶🧶🧶
I usuall use the back bump to start the first row, but I have never seen the top loop and back bump used. I will have to try it.
It's fun to experiment to see which one works best for you! 🧶🧶🧶
I like to use heavy yarn for my blankets. When I cover up and it has that weight to it, it makes me feel safe and secure and warm and just cozy. Especially in the winter.
That makes sense! A warm, cozy blanket is perfect for the winter. 🧶🧶🧶
@EliseRoseCrochet I crochet my first blanket after my gallbladder surgery. And I ended up with a king size blanket. It's heavy but warm. And made out of bernat blanket yarn.