My favorite hack is to keep the little yarn ends in a little jar and use them as stuffing. They add up really fast if you crochet a lot and it's a nice and cheap way to save on new stuffing cotton and use what's already there
My Marine Corps dad used to cross stitch the designs for my mom on her Tunisian crochet potholders, and would also stitch them together and crochet the ruffle edges on for her when her arthritis bothered her. He was cool like that, and I miss him every day!
I love the fact you are clearly a skilled crochet(er) and are so receptive to others skills tricks or techniques. Always shows your never too good to learn from others.
I've been crocheting for over 55 yrs and I've used, figured out and/or adopted most of these hacks on my own (or a variation of) throughout that time, but not being social media savvy, there was no way to share...I'm glad others do so...for my own ergonomic hack for hooks, I use the foam hair rollers (the long flexible ones) and just take out the center wire (which I save for amigurumi armature) and if need put a spot of glue inside for the smaller hooks...love your channel!
I crocheted a handle for my hooks. I used bernat blanket yarn, made a pill shape ball and overstuffed it. Bonus, it doubles as a stress ball that I use to exercise my crochet hand every 10 minutes or so while working. It keeps my hand from aching.
Ooh! I just did something similar last night for my hooks! It’s more like a thick sleeve that goes around the handle, so it’s more for comfort than ergonomics. After I finish my current project, I’ll definitely try your version!
The tennis ball one was actually what I did after surgery on my hand and wrist! I wasn't able to close my hand and my physical therapist got me a tennis ball for my hooks! Yes it was slow but I was just happy to be able to crochet again!
I always wear a magnetic bracelet when crocheting. I was told years ago that I would end up with carpal tunnel but that was over 20 yrs ago and no problems yet😂
The tennis ball thing would likely be better for someone with lost dexterity in their fingers/wrist due to injury or arthritis maybe. It might also be useful for someone who crochet a lot.in one go. If you switched up from without to with you would change some of the movement and muscles being used possibly reducing strain....there would still be some overlap so maybe it would make little difference in the end but who knows, someone needs to try it...I might try myself lol we will see.
Love the beauty blender idea but my immediate go to would be only use 1, insert hook longways and you have a manageable cushy grip! Thanks for the super fun video 😊❤
Better economic winding tool than a sharpie for US crocheters: Get a large cylindrical prescription pill bottle (the ones that are about 5.5 inches tall and about 2 inches wide). Take the childproof lid off and poke your yarn end in. Put the cap back on. Wind around the cylinder. When it's wound, take the cap off and slide ball of yarn off the end of the bottle. The end that you had inside the pill bottle is your center pull starting yarn. Works like a charm, especially for a full skein. Very portable as well. For those of us that take a lot of medications, it's a bonus crochet tool with purchase!
ALWAYS use a larger hook for foundation.. sometimes 2 sizes... easier to pull it in with a trim row than to be disappointed when it's too tight and ruins the project!
I never use foundation-chains... instead I go for chainless foundation crochet... (works with single, half-double & double crochets)... and the bottom will look exactly the same as the top... it'll have the same tension as the rest of your project.... and you don't need to switch hook sizes...
When I'm doing a foundation chain, I like working my first row in the back bumps instead of through the stitch loops for a few reasons: 1) it leaves a "V" edge under the starting chain for clean look. 2) this seems to be all I need to maintain some flex in the foundation chain to prevent shrinkage
I taught my mom to crochet years ago and she crocheted so tight that she had to always go up 2 hook sizes to do her base chain. I love the tip of finding someone else to weave in your ends. I also taught my husband to crochet and he will weave in ends for me if I ask him. He is also great at untangling yarn for me!
My Dad used to untangle mom’s crochet all the time. But Dad was a jokester and once in a while mom would find her crochet in a knot. Not a hard knot that couldn’t be undone. As a kid I got a good laugh out of mom getting flustered. Then she could see he did it where it could be undone easily. Good memories as they are both gone.
Love the bigger hook foundation chain idea and the stacked single crochet stitch instead of a chain 3 idea! I will be using those. Also, getting the label into the skein was awesome, too.
Another hack is to build your own grannie square stretcher thingy out of Legos. Did that for a cardigan I made and it worked well. Very customizable to whatever square size you're working with
I saw that beauty blender hack a few weeks ago on UA-cam and this changed my fibromyalgia + rheumatism life totally! At first it felt weird, but as you said, you'll get used to it ☺️
Kudos for attempting the tennis ball. The makeup blenders seem more my style ... or foam stress balls etc of a shape that suits the length of the hook. I will try the yarn label hack for sure. I think the end weaver could be a new game changer for those on the dating scene! My hubby wouldn't do that but he's still a keeper cause he doesn't mind my stash!
Lots of great ideas, going up a hook size for foundation chains makes a lot of sense. I also use a crochet hook for casting on blankets when I'm knitting. It leaves a nice clean edge. My favorite crochet hack is to stuff pantyhose with fiberfil while you stuff amigirumi, it stops the stuffing from popping out.
Thanks for putting all these tips together for us! I know I won’t use the ergonomic hook tips but I think I’ll be using beauty blenders to make my hook easier to find in my travel bag! I’m always digging for my hook…the squishy blender would help tremendously!!❤
That wrapping paper book😭😭 I bought one in Gatlinburg in like 1991 and I LOVED it. I used it up over the years because saving it made no sense, but wow I wish these were still a thing.
I've used just one beauty blender lengthwise and it worked pretty good. Also glad someone else uses old wipe containers. I've done it for years. Actual baby wipe containers are great for small/mini skeins when doing color work. I know this is for crochet, but going up a size when casting on knitting also gives better stretch and helps with it not being too small.
If you love using your all metal hooks like me but have sore hands, i have a little suggestion for you!! I purchased elastics and the rainbow loom and i make what they call pencil grips! All my hooks have them and it's fantastic!!! 🖤
I love the tips. One I have used for years is slipping pencil cushion grips over my hook. Smaller hooks need a little help from some tape but so much cheaper than actual cushioned hooks. Enjoy your tips very much 😊
I no longer use my yarn winder, I use my thumb the way you used the black marker. I learned in knitting that you cast on using larger size needles which gives a more flexible edge the same as you showed a larger hook. Thank you for the tips. This was the first time watching you.
Thank you for compiling these hacks for us! You saved me a ton of time. I definitely will try the burning the fuzziness off my projects and using a larger crochet hook for the foundation chain! ❤
Foam pencil grips work for me, as I have severe Rheumatoid Arthritis. I've been using them for years. Put a couple of tiny rubber bands on the hook underneath the foam grip to keep it from sliding if it's a small hook. Try it.!
Hey :) I just wanted to point out that even though wool can burn, it usually goes out pretty quickly :) I actually did a massive yarn haul from a second hand shop around the new year and burned pieces of each mystery skein to figure out what kind of material it was made of -- if anyone intends to do the same, or follow the tip in the video; DO IT OUTSIDE. Each fiber, synthetic or otherwise, give off different *strong* smells. Wool--burned hair, cotton--burned paper, acrylic--some kind of fish-like odor :P
@@joycespecht3038 Haha, yeah ^^' I might have phrased that weirdly :) At least when I burned wool, it burned for a small part of the length before the flame just suddenly went out, so that's what I meant, haha :)
LMAO thank you for your son's cameo and thank you for pointing out his age for the crowd who panic that you might have endangered a minor or something. The makeup blenders is what I've seen people use for ergo hooks "at home" but only one single one with the point towards the bottom. LOL (I have personally used pencil grips for my metal hooks when I travel with them because it makes them more comfortable to hold.)
@@EliseRoseCrochet haha... I was just teasing. The weird things my son has had to "help" with include untangling a loaded swift and baller accidentally left in an unsecured room for 1/2 an hour while I made some lunch and "discovered" by a 7 year old tom cat who thought the heavens had opened and had a frenzied VERY GOOD TIME and building all of the shelves in my yarn storage cube shelves. LMAO Adult kids are awesome.
I have seen a number of these, but from a much older generation. Some of these are also updated ideas for the modern crocheter! I love it and I love seeing how media can get these ideas moved through our community!
The Nostepinne gives you a lot more room to wind on. I wouldn't want to do a whole hank on it instead of the standard winder, but definitely could if I had to!
That’s a cool way to change colors. I love “the almost perfect color change” myself. It’s almost perfect like it says. 😂 You can also go up a half size instead a whole size if you want. I made a wrap with a 6.5mm and my chain was a 7mm. Maybe the tennis ball would be better for those with larger hands or longer fingers. I use something else for my crochet handles but the beauty blenders and tennis ball sure look interesting. Thanks for sharing, Elise! Love your videos!!!
Elise, I loved this video!!! I have been an avid knitter for many years and just started to crochet in 2023. I already know which one of these I am going to incorporate into my crochet projects immediately!!! Fabulous video!!!!! Thank you!
You are a woman after my own heart. I’m a baby UA-camr, and I have been telling my people the same thing. Don’t buy (note I did not say “invest in”) expensive gadgets. I recycle coffee cans to act as a yarn bowl.😊 I also teach the stacked single crochet. It just makes sense.
A crochet buddy told me about the stacked sc about three years ago and that has truly been a game changer. Thank you for this very nice and informative video.
Hi Lori, this was a very interesting video! I love the idea of using the Clorox canisters for storage and for a yarn holder! Some of the tips I have been using already or my own variation. For example the one where she does the color change, I do it your way, but leave on a long tail. Then when I weave in the yarn with a needle I go down to where the join is and make a little V stitch and it makes the colors come together almost seamlessly. Another thing I have always done with crochet and knitting is use the bigger hook or needles for the foundation row, always works. With regard to the hack about the double crochet turning technique, that sounds really effective. The only thing I worry about is if I am making a blanket and am going to but a border of some kind around those stitches. It may not look quite as neat, but I would have to experiment to be sure. I worry about the tennis ball hack , because as I was watching you, you were having to use a lot more wrist action. It might be easier on the fingers but I think it would hurt my wrist and forearm after awhile. I love the make up sponge idea! I wonder if you could trim the edges a bit and make them a little smaller. I bet that would still feel real nice and again protect the wrist from excess movement .I am going to try! That was really interesting about using the lighter technique on the fuzzies. My personal preference though is that I love the fuzzies or what I have always referred to as the hallo effect because it makes the animal doll look like it has fur. :). Wonderful video today, thank you for checking all these out for us! Have a wonderful week ahead and happy crocheting!
I keep all my yarn in Wipe containers. I wash them out, take off the label, and label them. I tape a piece of paper with the yarn info (brand, color, and where I bought it) so I can always know where to refill my container. It's also great to store them on my shelves. I have kids so it's also great to take the container(s) with me when I'm working on projects. This has really helped me keep my yarn organized and always know where I got my yarn.
For safety I would use a nail and hammer to make holes in the tennis ball... but I don't really care to use the tennis ball, but that's just me. OMGoodness the sharpie trip made my jaw drop!
The yarn dispenser is great! Seems like an easy idea for a to-go crochet kit or for a crocheting kit gift. I like the tennis ball idea, but I'm gonna give the smaller dog tennis balls a shot. The main idea is to keep your hand in a more open position, so some thing is better than nothing. Nothing = pain. 😅 But stretches and hand strengthening exercises and/or those silicone bands for rock climbers help your hands prevent pain..... Thanks for the video! Happy hooking! 😘
Thanks for trying these out! I found your channel a couple weeks ago and I am hooked 😂. Knitter learning to crochet. *about the tennis ball- as a person newly diagnosed with a neurological illness I have had to switch to adaptive devices. It is always awkward to switch and never quite as natural. So your experience tracks with that and was helpful to know. Thanks for all you do!!
I save all my wipe containers for different things. Sometimes I make ribbon holders with them. A dowel and a long slit down the long side feed ribbon on dowel put a hole in bottom end to attach dowel pull ribbon through slit and put cap on with hole to feed other dowel side through. Now the have a new meaning especially in the car I have a lunchbox I use the soft one so it's waterproof and washable just in case because I sit it on the floor. Now game changer wipe boxes. I'd like to try the tennis balls but I'm thinking racquet ball instead not as wonky and big. Also LOVING the idea for the double crochet stitch start plus seems easier to put an edge on too I'm excited. One day would love to make any of your patterns but that's just a dream right now. Love your videos. Need to binge watch one night to catch up.
I was holding my breath when you took the lighter to your pig. 😮 😊 I felt like I was watching a suspense movie. Yelling at the screen, don't do it! I am glad it worked. I can breathe easily now. 😅
I was making the mermaid tears purse and the crochet along said to go up a size on your chain if it seemed to get tight and it was a game changer. I wish I had learned about this when I actually learned to crochet. I will always do this from now on. I love your channel. I learn so much. Keep up the good work!
Thank you for taking the time to make this video and try out the hacks so we don’t have to! I’m not even going to bother asking my husband for help since he loves Cheetos. Lol.
I just wanted to point out, beauty blenders are supposed to be soaked in water to fluffy them up and make them softer, when they dry out they shrink and get stiffer. But with all crochet hooks, your body adjusts and compensates to use the hooks, so at some point you’ll likely have new pain from any "ergonomic handle". I would recommend the best of both worlds and switch back and forth between two handle options, that way your body doesn’t become overly fatigued. ❤ love your videos!
Thank you for sharing. I figured it out quite early in my crochet life of 60+ years to do my foundation chain in a larger hook. I love the Clorox jar as a yarn holder as you can still release your yarn from it it you want to. The ones that you buy, you can't as it is just a round hole. 💜
Such a good video! I've been wondering about some of these hacks before (especially the burning one!), and now I have answers to my questions! I'm so excited to try the one about how to put the label inside a cake of yarn!
That's where I learned it, too! That was actually the first crochet project I did (the jewelspun wrap), so I learned foundation double crochet and the stacked single stitch right away. :)
Thank you for the hacks! I've been looking for something to use on a hook for my 92 year old mother to get her crocheting again without pain, I am definitely going to try the makeup things. Thank you again for watching everywhere for new hacks! Love your videos
Hi Elise! I have to say I found your channel a few days ago, and have really been enjoying you. The content is great, but your vibe and personality is even better. You’ve got a new subscriber. ❤
Thank you for compiling the top tips, especially for those of us that don't use tiktok. I've started wrapping my hooks with athletic tape- I got a big pack of different colors from Amazon and wrap them just enough to add some bulk, but not too much so it's not as big as the tennis ball or beauty blenders. I've always been a really tight crocheter and sometimes use the outer edge of my hand to add pressure to the back end of the hook, and it will feel bruised just below my pinkie. Since I've started using the athletic tape, it adds a cushion to the back end of the metal hooks as well as opening up my hand to decrease muscle tension, so I'm not as tight and, sadly, sore from crochet.
For the tennis ball try using a power drill with a bit slightly smaller than your hook. MUCH less dangerous than a knife. And while you have the drill out; drill a hole in the top of a cleaned out peanut butter jar and pop in your smaller balls of yarn or if you're using cotton thread ro make doilies etc they work great for that too. And since they're clear you can stack them in your yarn shelf (because doesn't everyone have one?) and easily find the color you need for your next project. 😊
The makeup sponges are genius! I use yarn leftovers to make heavy Single-crochet baskets (also one of your ideas!) and the thick multi-strand yarn makes a 9mm hook hard to push through and hand-wearing! Putting 3 Sponges on my metal hook makes it so much more comfortable to manage! My hand does not wear out from pushing and pulling the hook through the loop which makes my work, go faster, and much more comfortably.
I discovered the label inside the cake one on my own! Feels like magic! Also, better than sizing up for a foundation chain: do foundation stitches whenever possible! I think for the beauty blender one, it might be better to use fewer, or at least place them farther down the hook so that you have some more space near the tip.
I’ve just found your channel and have been binge watching your videos. The last one on reviewing products, I nearly spat my tea out when you talked about the hook that lights up! I love the soft grip hooks and was looking to purchase some new ones and came across the light up hooks! I was so preplexed by them and couldn’t think how they would be of any use! You said it all with your rant! 🤣 Loving your videos so much and after crocheting for 20+ years, I’m learning new things and techniques from you, so thank you very much, got yourself another subscriber. ❤
i have BAD carpel tunnel, i use those small triangle makeup sponges on my crochet hook handle, you can puzzle them together however you need for support in different hand areas, they dont move around and you dont need to cut them
I have to share with you - my son's girlfriend is a crocheter so I shared your "bonus hack" with both of them! She loved the idea of teaching him to weave in the ends for her!
I personally wrap a rectangle of half inch high density foam around my hooks and secure it with self adhesive bandage and it works great since you can really shape it to whatever shape works best for you. Best part is I had the foam leftover from a project!
I LOVE the idea of starting with one size up on a foundation chain! I crochet tight so sometimes that first row is frustrating and I bet it would help a lot with the shape of my end project! Thanks! ❤
I use several of these hacks but on the yarn winder putting the label inside I also pull the end of the yarn through the label so it’s an easy center pull yarn cake.😊
Some funny and mostly doable hacks!😃 I love that you try new thing for us - such as roasting Piglet!😆😁 But the "hack" about using a larger hook for the foundation chain is old news (at least for me), I've been doing that for many years.
It’s not that common in crochet but I think it’s common in knitting, I was taught to cast on holding both needles together, but maybe that’s because I am a very tight knitter.
Really love your channel! Thankyou! My GP grandaughter got some 'sponge cylinders' of differing shapes and sizes for different applications... crochet hooks, teaspoon, paring knife, pen etc etc. They help me to keep doing things I would'nt have been able otherwise. I live in South Africa and look forward to your future videos!! Thankyou, Fran
In the uk, Vanish is in pretty bright pink tubs and I get the labels off quite easily and use them for storing hooks, needles and they match my pink manual folders 👌they also come in various sizes too.
Some of these are fun and handy. Thank you for testing them out!! The 2 sc on top of each other is something I 'invented' when I just started crocheting about 8/9 years ago. The make-up sponges, I use 1 ( of those large ones you had) but with the hook inserted from blunt to tip end. Fits perfectly in my hand. When I start a project I usually start with foundation sc or dc. Also very stretchy and no need to switch a hooksize. For switching colours you have other methods that are really almost invisible. When something needs to be really clean, I use those.
As a knitter, I was taught the hack for going up a size for both the cast on and cast off row, back in the days before the word hack was used 😂 so it seemed sensible to do the same thing with crochet when I realised my starting chain or foundation row was so much tighter. Who would have thought it was a hack? 😊
1. An oatmeal container works well for yarn fed container too. Skeins or balls both work. Save and reuse other plastic containers. 2. Oh my the tennisball would be hard to get used to... But you could start out by using the beauty blender or tennis ball to start out and teach it. 3. The sharpy hack was amazing. 4. The larger hook, for chaining.. Great idea! I saved this video for reference
With the beauty blenders on your crochet hook...I would try putting just 1 of them right side up (not sideways like you put them on) and see how that feels... If you need more, try 2.
OMG I wish I had known loooooong ago about the size up for the chain !! Will always do that from now on thanks...just finished a Turkish stitch blanket and I hate the way the chain row is screwing up the look of the blanket even trying to stretch it out..thanks again .
Elise, this is not a TikTok hack, but I have to share it. I have just discovered amigurumi and your you tube channel, about a month or two ago and have been binge watching. I have been crocheting for decades but I had never made these cute projects before. I fell in love with them, and I am particularly drawn to the dolls. I just finished making my 2nd doll ever, so I really don't know that much about the process. The pattern had me make the head, then the legs, arms and body. I had to sew the head onto the body, but once I had done this, her head was wobbly. I didn't know how to fix it. I thought of wooden chop sticks and poking them through the top of her head, but I didn't have any. But what I did have were small flat wooden coffee stirring sticks. I use to them to stir paint in my little paint bottles. So, I took a few of them, about 3 - 4 and I cut a point on one end (you can also cut the length) and stuck them through the top of her head pushing her head in until I got the stick down into the middle of the top half of her head. I positioned them as close the edge of her neck as I could estimate it, and it worked. Fixing a wobbly head after your project is done is too good a tip not to pass onto everyone. I got the coffee stirring sticks on Amazon, and I think I got about 600- 800 of them for about $5.00-6.00. Please don't quote me on price, I have had them for quite a while.
Absolutely use a larger hook for the foundation chain! Also consider using a larger hook as well if you need to add chain stitches in the middle of your piece such as creating the space for the handle of a bag, or the hole for your thumb on a mitten.
The single crochet as DC turning chain is LIFE CHANGING, saw the technique on Instagram reels a few months back and never go back to chain 3 ever again
One of my favourite crochet tutorial channels on YT (Blossom Crochet) uses this technique and it has definitely been one of the best tips I’ve ever seen.
My favorite hack is to keep the little yarn ends in a little jar and use them as stuffing. They add up really fast if you crochet a lot and it's a nice and cheap way to save on new stuffing cotton and use what's already there
Yes! I keep all my scraps for that very reason! 🧶🧶🧶
I do this too!
I use my old yarn ends as stitch markers.
Yes!! I started sewing recently and I’ve been saving my thread and tiny fabric scraps for stuffing, too. It works great! 🤩
That’s what I do!
My Marine Corps dad used to cross stitch the designs for my mom on her Tunisian crochet potholders, and would also stitch them together and crochet the ruffle edges on for her when her arthritis bothered her. He was cool like that, and I miss him every day!
Awww! He sounds like an amazing man! 🧶🧶🧶
I am sorry for the loss.
Sounds like a GREAT DAD & HUSBAND.. I UNDERSTAND YOUR LOSS, LOST BOTH PARENTS ABT 30 YRS AGO. STILL MISS THEM SOMUCH!!
🥰❤️💔🫂
What an amazing memory! ❤
I love the fact you are clearly a skilled crochet(er) and are so receptive to others skills tricks or techniques. Always shows your never too good to learn from others.
I love learning from others! That's one of my favorite things about crochet, you never stop learning! 🧶🧶🧶
I've been crocheting for over 55 yrs and I've used, figured out and/or adopted most of these hacks on my own (or a variation of) throughout that time, but not being social media savvy, there was no way to share...I'm glad others do so...for my own ergonomic hack for hooks, I use the foam hair rollers (the long flexible ones) and just take out the center wire (which I save for amigurumi armature) and if need put a spot of glue inside for the smaller hooks...love your channel!
Oooh! Great tips! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Brilliant ❤ thank you 😊
Love your tips too!
Fantastic tips thank you! I have tendonitis and cant wait to try this one 😊
I crocheted a handle for my hooks. I used bernat blanket yarn, made a pill shape ball and overstuffed it. Bonus, it doubles as a stress ball that I use to exercise my crochet hand every 10 minutes or so while working. It keeps my hand from aching.
That's a great idea! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Ooh! I just did something similar last night for my hooks! It’s more like a thick sleeve that goes around the handle, so it’s more for comfort than ergonomics. After I finish my current project, I’ll definitely try your version!
This is a fab idea! I'm going to steal ur idea lol ❤
😂love it, why buy it when you can make it yourself
Thanks for sharing I will try it❤
The tennis ball one was actually what I did after surgery on my hand and wrist! I wasn't able to close my hand and my physical therapist got me a tennis ball for my hooks! Yes it was slow but I was just happy to be able to crochet again!
That's amazing! Thank you for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I think a smaller dog toy “tennis” ball would work better.
I always wear a magnetic bracelet when crocheting. I was told years ago that I would end up with carpal tunnel but that was over 20 yrs ago and no problems yet😂
The tennis ball thing would likely be better for someone with lost dexterity in their fingers/wrist due to injury or arthritis maybe. It might also be useful for someone who crochet a lot.in one go. If you switched up from without to with you would change some of the movement and muscles being used possibly reducing strain....there would still be some overlap so maybe it would make little difference in the end but who knows, someone needs to try it...I might try myself lol we will see.
'No pigs were harmed during this experiment' 🤣 Loved this one Elise! Thank you for all the time you spend on your videos - always appreciated! xx
Thank you! 😂
@@EliseRoseCrochetkkk
But I like the soft fuzzy on the pig 😢
Love the beauty blender idea but my immediate go to would be only use 1, insert hook longways and you have a manageable cushy grip! Thanks for the super fun video 😊❤
Great idea!! 🧶🧶🧶
In the original hack, all the beauty blenders were put in length wise
I use beauty blenders and mine are lengthwise and only 2 for mine. I move them from hook to hook and they all work perfect, no slipping 😊
As a crocheter with a younger sister the last tip is a life changer, i now have a sister weaving in my ends to 20 crochet patches. VICTORY!
Awesome!!! 👏👏👏
Better economic winding tool than a sharpie for US crocheters: Get a large cylindrical prescription pill bottle (the ones that are about 5.5 inches tall and about 2 inches wide). Take the childproof lid off and poke your yarn end in. Put the cap back on. Wind around the cylinder. When it's wound, take the cap off and slide ball of yarn off the end of the bottle. The end that you had inside the pill bottle is your center pull starting yarn. Works like a charm, especially for a full skein. Very portable as well. For those of us that take a lot of medications, it's a bonus crochet tool with purchase!
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Ooo good idea! A pill bottle would also be perfect for storing tapestry needles
For the tennis ball trick, I would try small tennis balls meant for tiny dogs!
That's a great idea!! Thanks for sharing! 🎾🎾🎾
Absolutely genius!!
And I’d try an awl or skewer to make the hole to protect your hands :)
Or maybe a bouncy ball
It doesn't work for people like me that use a pencil hold on the hook, buuut holding a makeup sponge in the yarn holding hand helps tremendously!
Maybe put the beauty blenders ends to end so they would be a little more narrow.
I think that's what I will do next time! Thank you! 🧶🧶🧶
That’s what I thought. Maybe end to end one would be all you need. It would fit in the palm of your hand. I’m gonna try it ❤
I was thinking the same thing, and the one with a blunt tip would be good by the hook. I’m going to try this for my tiny crochet hooks
My thoughts exactly!
Or just use 2 instead of 3!!
ALWAYS use a larger hook for foundation.. sometimes 2 sizes... easier to pull it in with a trim row than to be disappointed when it's too tight and ruins the project!
Yes! I don't know how I didn't know that before!!! 🤣🧶🤣🧶
OMG! What an ace tip! Thank you 🧶🧶🧶
I never use foundation-chains... instead I go for chainless foundation crochet... (works with single, half-double & double crochets)... and the bottom will look exactly the same as the top... it'll have the same tension as the rest of your project.... and you don't need to switch hook sizes...
When I'm doing a foundation chain, I like working my first row in the back bumps instead of through the stitch loops for a few reasons:
1) it leaves a "V" edge under the starting chain for clean look.
2) this seems to be all I need to maintain some flex in the foundation chain to prevent shrinkage
I taught my mom to crochet years ago and she crocheted so tight that she had to always go up 2 hook sizes to do her base chain. I love the tip of finding someone else to weave in your ends. I also taught my husband to crochet and he will weave in ends for me if I ask him. He is also great at untangling yarn for me!
Several other commenters mentioned that their husbands were great at detangling!! 🧶🧶🧶
My cats won't cooperate at all! Lol!
For the tennis ball hack... I'd use a 10 penny nail?
My Dad used to untangle mom’s crochet all the time. But Dad was a jokester and once in a while mom would find her crochet in a knot. Not a hard knot that couldn’t be undone. As a kid I got a good laugh out of mom getting flustered. Then she could see he did it where it could be undone easily. Good memories as they are both gone.
Love the bigger hook foundation chain idea and the stacked single crochet stitch instead of a chain 3 idea! I will be using those. Also, getting the label into the skein was awesome, too.
I'm so glad you enjoyed it! 🧶🧶🧶
One of my favorite ❤
Another hack is to build your own grannie square stretcher thingy out of Legos. Did that for a cardigan I made and it worked well. Very customizable to whatever square size you're working with
Oh wow!!! Now that sounds amazing!! You made your own blocking board out of legos!!! 🧶🧶🧶
That’s so smart..thank you 😊
This was brilliant! Now we need a whole video on the art of persuasion so I can get my hubby to do this. It would change my life!!!! LOL!!!!!
Right????? 🤣🤣🤣
The best yet
I saw that beauty blender hack a few weeks ago on UA-cam and this changed my fibromyalgia + rheumatism life totally!
At first it felt weird, but as you said, you'll get used to it ☺️
That is so amazing!! Thank you so much for sharing how it has helped you! 🧶🧶🧶
@@EliseRoseCrochet you're welcome 🥰 and thank you for sharing those amazing hacks ☺️
Kudos for attempting the tennis ball. The makeup blenders seem more my style ... or foam stress balls etc of a shape that suits the length of the hook.
I will try the yarn label hack for sure. I think the end weaver could be a new game changer for those on the dating scene! My hubby wouldn't do that but he's still a keeper cause he doesn't mind my stash!
I like the idea of a stress ball!! And my husband doesn't mind my stash either!! 🤣🤣🤣
Lots of great ideas, going up a hook size for foundation chains makes a lot of sense. I also use a crochet hook for casting on blankets when I'm knitting. It leaves a nice clean edge. My favorite crochet hack is to stuff pantyhose with fiberfil while you stuff amigirumi, it stops the stuffing from popping out.
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Thanks for putting all these tips together for us! I know I won’t use the ergonomic hook tips but I think I’ll be using beauty blenders to make my hook easier to find in my travel bag! I’m always digging for my hook…the squishy blender would help tremendously!!❤
That's a great idea! I bet it would make it so much easier to find! 🧶🧶🧶
Great idea! Thank you
I love the prym ergonomic hooks she uses! They are my favorite off the shelf hooks.
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Absolutely love the alternative to the ch 3!! The struggle is so real trying to find the right spot! ♥🌸
Yes it is! 🧶🧶🧶
As someone whos neurodivergent your videos are awesome, calming, not overwhelming, just, amazing! God bless, love those videos of testing hacks ❤
That wrapping paper book😭😭 I bought one in Gatlinburg in like 1991 and I LOVED it. I used it up over the years because saving it made no sense, but wow I wish these were still a thing.
Right??? They are amazing!! ❤️❤️❤️
Wowzers, Maxine's tip should be the standard for crochetz just like you said. That is absolutely amazing. I mean, my jaw dropped.😮
I felt the same way! 🧶🧶🧶
I've used just one beauty blender lengthwise and it worked pretty good. Also glad someone else uses old wipe containers. I've done it for years. Actual baby wipe containers are great for small/mini skeins when doing color work. I know this is for crochet, but going up a size when casting on knitting also gives better stretch and helps with it not being too small.
Thanks so much for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
That’s exactly what I tried and it made so much difference- thanks for the tip
If you love using your all metal hooks like me but have sore hands, i have a little suggestion for you!! I purchased elastics and the rainbow loom and i make what they call pencil grips! All my hooks have them and it's fantastic!!! 🖤
Thanks for the tip! 🌈🌈🌈
I love the sharpie hack!!! Yes! I have a cake winder but this is great for smaller scraps like you said, and plus hand-winding can be very relaxing.
Yes it definitely can!! 🧶🧶🧶
LOVED using the sharpie for winding up thread and still pulling from the center!! ❤️❤️
I love the tips. One I have used for years is slipping pencil cushion grips over my hook. Smaller hooks need a little help from some tape but so much cheaper than actual cushioned hooks. Enjoy your tips very much 😊
Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
For the tennis ball thingy -get some of the smaller -cat toy tennis balls... They feel so much better and work!!
Thanks for sharing! ❤
Thanks for sharing! As a new crocheter I will definitely be incorporating some of these hacks as I move forward. This is a video to save, for sure.
Glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
I no longer use my yarn winder, I use my thumb the way you used the black marker. I learned in knitting that you cast on using larger size needles which gives a more flexible edge the same as you showed a larger hook.
Thank you for the tips. This was the first time watching you.
Thank you for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for compiling these hacks for us! You saved me a ton of time. I definitely will try the burning the fuzziness off my projects and using a larger crochet hook for the foundation chain! ❤
You're so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
Try the chainless foundation, then you won't need to switch hooks.
@@JenniferBristol Interesting! I'll have to try it! Thanks!
@@margaro2615 Once I learned how, I prefer it! There are websites and videos on how to do it.
Foam pencil grips work for me, as I have severe Rheumatoid Arthritis. I've been using them for years. Put a couple of tiny rubber bands on the hook underneath the foam grip to keep it from sliding if it's a small hook. Try it.!
Thank you so much for sharing! I have a very good friend with RA and my heart goes out to you! ❤️❤️❤️
Hey :) I just wanted to point out that even though wool can burn, it usually goes out pretty quickly :)
I actually did a massive yarn haul from a second hand shop around the new year and burned pieces of each mystery skein to figure out what kind of material it was made of -- if anyone intends to do the same, or follow the tip in the video; DO IT OUTSIDE. Each fiber, synthetic or otherwise, give off different *strong* smells. Wool--burned hair, cotton--burned paper, acrylic--some kind of fish-like odor :P
Thank you so much for sharing!! And now I really really want to test this for myself!!! 🧶🧶🧶
The beauty blenders seem to be a great idea but maybe cut them down a bit to custom fit it to your hand.
I love that "It goes out pretty quickly" lol
@makesbymalin1
As I recall, natural fibers turn to ash, synthetics melt.
@@joycespecht3038 Haha, yeah ^^' I might have phrased that weirdly :) At least when I burned wool, it burned for a small part of the length before the flame just suddenly went out, so that's what I meant, haha :)
that crochet hook/tennis ball hack is awesome.
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
LMAO thank you for your son's cameo and thank you for pointing out his age for the crowd who panic that you might have endangered a minor or something. The makeup blenders is what I've seen people use for ergo hooks "at home" but only one single one with the point towards the bottom. LOL (I have personally used pencil grips for my metal hooks when I travel with them because it makes them more comfortable to hold.)
lol!! Yes, I wanted everyone to know I was getting my big strong 21-year-old son to help!! 🤣
@@EliseRoseCrochet haha... I was just teasing. The weird things my son has had to "help" with include untangling a loaded swift and baller accidentally left in an unsecured room for 1/2 an hour while I made some lunch and "discovered" by a 7 year old tom cat who thought the heavens had opened and had a frenzied VERY GOOD TIME and building all of the shelves in my yarn storage cube shelves. LMAO Adult kids are awesome.
I have seen a number of these, but from a much older generation. Some of these are also updated ideas for the modern crocheter! I love it and I love seeing how media can get these ideas moved through our community!
It's great to see so many young people sharing these tips! 🧶🧶🧶
The Sharpie hack is really an updated use of a Nostepinne from Scandinavia - a yarn winding stick. I do this for leftovers to make center pull balls.
Yes! I would imagine that most of us have a sharpie at home! 🧶🧶🧶
The Nostepinne gives you a lot more room to wind on. I wouldn't want to do a whole hank on it instead of the standard winder, but definitely could if I had to!
Holy Moly ~ the DC turning chain hack!!!
Yes!!! 🧶🧶🧶
That’s a cool way to change colors. I love “the almost perfect color change” myself. It’s almost perfect like it says. 😂
You can also go up a half size instead a whole size if you want. I made a wrap with a 6.5mm and my chain was a 7mm.
Maybe the tennis ball would be better for those with larger hands or longer fingers.
I use something else for my crochet handles but the beauty blenders and tennis ball sure look interesting.
Thanks for sharing, Elise! Love your videos!!!
Thank you! Yeah, I think my hands may just be a little too small for a standard size tennis ball! 🎾🎾🎾
Elise, I loved this video!!! I have been an avid knitter for many years and just started to crochet in 2023. I already know which one of these I am going to incorporate into my crochet projects immediately!!! Fabulous video!!!!! Thank you!
I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I had so much fun trying out all these crochet TikTok hacks! 🧶🧶🧶
You are a woman after my own heart. I’m a baby UA-camr, and I have been telling my people the same thing. Don’t buy (note I did not say “invest in”) expensive gadgets. I recycle coffee cans to act as a yarn bowl.😊 I also teach the stacked single crochet. It just makes sense.
It really does! Crocheters really don't need gadgets! Plus that means there's more money for yarn! 🤣
My husband has accused me of trying to cover our world with crochet,mostly containers as I have more yarn than paper. 😉🌈🐈🐈⬛💖
I like to use my collection of pyrex bowls as yarn bowls. They are pretty to look at and they get out of the cabinet and have some fun.
@@hnelson5609ha! Dishes deserve some fun also!😹
A crochet buddy told me about the stacked sc about three years ago and that has truly been a game changer. Thank you for this very nice and informative video.
You are so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
Hi Lori, this was a very interesting video! I love the idea of using the Clorox canisters for storage and for a yarn holder! Some of the tips I have been using already or my own variation. For example the one where she does the color change, I do it your way, but leave on a long tail. Then when I weave in the yarn with a needle I go down to where the join is and make a little V stitch and it makes the colors come together almost seamlessly. Another thing I have always done with crochet and knitting is use the bigger hook or needles for the foundation row, always works. With regard to the hack about the double crochet turning technique, that sounds really effective. The only thing I worry about is if I am making a blanket and am going to but a border of some kind around those stitches. It may not look quite as neat, but I would have to experiment to be sure. I worry about the tennis ball hack , because as I was watching you, you were having to use a lot more wrist action. It might be easier on the fingers but I think it would hurt my wrist and forearm after awhile. I love the make up sponge idea! I wonder if you could trim the edges a bit and make them a little smaller. I bet that would still feel real nice and again protect the wrist from excess movement .I am going to try! That was really interesting about using the lighter technique on the fuzzies. My personal preference though is that I love the fuzzies or what I have always referred to as the hallo effect because it makes the animal doll look like it has fur. :). Wonderful video today, thank you for checking all these out for us! Have a wonderful week ahead and happy crocheting!
I'm so glad you enjoyed it! And I also wonder about the border for a blanket! Would be fun to experiment with! 🧶🧶🧶
I keep all my yarn in Wipe containers. I wash them out, take off the label, and label them. I tape a piece of paper with the yarn info (brand, color, and where I bought it) so I can always know where to refill my container. It's also great to store them on my shelves. I have kids so it's also great to take the container(s) with me when I'm working on projects. This has really helped me keep my yarn organized and always know where I got my yarn.
For safety I would use a nail and hammer to make holes in the tennis ball... but I don't really care to use the tennis ball, but that's just me. OMGoodness the sharpie trip made my jaw drop!
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
The yarn dispenser is great! Seems like an easy idea for a to-go crochet kit or for a crocheting kit gift. I like the tennis ball idea, but I'm gonna give the smaller dog tennis balls a shot. The main idea is to keep your hand in a more open position, so some thing is better than nothing. Nothing = pain. 😅 But stretches and hand strengthening exercises and/or those silicone bands for rock climbers help your hands prevent pain..... Thanks for the video! Happy hooking! 😘
Thanks so much! 🧶🧶🧶
Thanks for trying these out! I found your channel a couple weeks ago and I am hooked 😂. Knitter learning to crochet.
*about the tennis ball- as a person newly diagnosed with a neurological illness I have had to switch to adaptive devices. It is always awkward to switch and never quite as natural. So your experience tracks with that and was helpful to know. Thanks for all you do!!
Bless your heart. ❤️ I hope you continue to find adaptive ways so that you'll enjoy crocheting for years to come! 🧶🧶🧶
Wee wee wee I could not of put flames to such a cute little pig!!!! Glad he made it!!! Thank you
Haha! 🐷🐷🐷
I save all my wipe containers for different things. Sometimes I make ribbon holders with them. A dowel and a long slit down the long side feed ribbon on dowel put a hole in bottom end to attach dowel pull ribbon through slit and put cap on with hole to feed other dowel side through. Now the have a new meaning especially in the car I have a lunchbox I use the soft one so it's waterproof and washable just in case because I sit it on the floor. Now game changer wipe boxes. I'd like to try the tennis balls but I'm thinking racquet ball instead not as wonky and big. Also LOVING the idea for the double crochet stitch start plus seems easier to put an edge on too I'm excited. One day would love to make any of your patterns but that's just a dream right now. Love your videos. Need to binge watch one night to catch up.
Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
I was holding my breath when you took the lighter to your pig. 😮 😊 I felt like I was watching a suspense movie. Yelling at the screen, don't do it! I am glad it worked. I can breathe easily now. 😅
🤣🤣🤣
I was afraid his little tail was going to go up in flames!
I was making the mermaid tears purse and the crochet along said to go up a size on your chain if it seemed to get tight and it was a game changer. I wish I had learned about this when I actually learned to crochet. I will always do this from now on. I love your channel. I learn so much. Keep up the good work!
Thank you so much! I wish I had known about that tip when I started too! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for taking the time to make this video and try out the hacks so we don’t have to! I’m not even going to bother asking my husband for help since he loves Cheetos. Lol.
Lol! No Cheeto hands!!! 🤣
I learned a no show by looking at videos. It really makes a difference. I got started making toys watching your videos.
Wonderful! 🧶🧶🧶
I just wanted to point out, beauty blenders are supposed to be soaked in water to fluffy them up and make them softer, when they dry out they shrink and get stiffer. But with all crochet hooks, your body adjusts and compensates to use the hooks, so at some point you’ll likely have new pain from any "ergonomic handle". I would recommend the best of both worlds and switch back and forth between two handle options, that way your body doesn’t become overly fatigued. ❤ love your videos!
Thanks so much for sharing!! Great points! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for sharing. I figured it out quite early in my crochet life of 60+ years to do my foundation chain in a larger hook. I love the Clorox jar as a yarn holder as you can still release your yarn from it it you want to. The ones that you buy, you can't as it is just a round hole. 💜
I hope to have as many years crocheting as you have!! 🧶🧶🧶
Such a good video! I've been wondering about some of these hacks before (especially the burning one!), and now I have answers to my questions! I'm so excited to try the one about how to put the label inside a cake of yarn!
Glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶
Oh my gosh!! People are geniuses! I’m so getting on TikTok! Thank you for this vlog!
You're so welcome! I didn't even scratch the surface of all the amazing crochet tips and tricks on TikTok!! 🧶🧶🧶
21:53 lol. That extra hack is super cute. XD
Haha! I thought so too! ❤
Baby wipe plastic boxes work really well for yarn storage also! I use EVERYTHING for my yarns... i mean everything. My hubby gets annoyed! Lol
That's a great tip! 🧶🧶🧶
I saw Hooked by Robin do that beginning double crochet and have been doing it ever since! She used it on a shawl tutorial💗
Thanks for sharing! She's amazing! 🧶🧶🧶
That's where I learned it, too! That was actually the first crochet project I did (the jewelspun wrap), so I learned foundation double crochet and the stacked single stitch right away. :)
Thank you for the hacks! I've been looking for something to use on a hook for my 92 year old mother to get her crocheting again without pain, I am definitely going to try the makeup things. Thank you again for watching everywhere for new hacks! Love your videos
You are so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
Hi Elise! I have to say I found your channel a few days ago, and have really been enjoying you. The content is great, but your vibe and personality is even better. You’ve got a new subscriber. ❤
Awww! Thank you so much! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for compiling the top tips, especially for those of us that don't use tiktok. I've started wrapping my hooks with athletic tape- I got a big pack of different colors from Amazon and wrap them just enough to add some bulk, but not too much so it's not as big as the tennis ball or beauty blenders. I've always been a really tight crocheter and sometimes use the outer edge of my hand to add pressure to the back end of the hook, and it will feel bruised just below my pinkie. Since I've started using the athletic tape, it adds a cushion to the back end of the metal hooks as well as opening up my hand to decrease muscle tension, so I'm not as tight and, sadly, sore from crochet.
Thanks for sharing your tips! 🧶🧶🧶
For the tennis ball try using a power drill with a bit slightly smaller than your hook. MUCH less dangerous than a knife.
And while you have the drill out; drill a hole in the top of a cleaned out peanut butter jar and pop in your smaller balls of yarn or if you're using cotton thread ro make doilies etc they work great for that too. And since they're clear you can stack them in your yarn shelf (because doesn't everyone have one?) and easily find the color you need for your next project. 😊
Great tips! Thanks for sharing (especially the one about the drill 🤣)
The makeup sponges are genius! I use yarn leftovers to make heavy Single-crochet baskets (also one of your ideas!) and the thick multi-strand yarn makes a 9mm hook hard to push through and hand-wearing! Putting 3 Sponges on my metal hook makes it so much more comfortable to manage! My hand does not wear out from pushing and pulling the hook through the loop which makes my work, go faster, and much more comfortably.
That's amazing! They really do feel good in your hands! ❤
I discovered the label inside the cake one on my own! Feels like magic!
Also, better than sizing up for a foundation chain: do foundation stitches whenever possible!
I think for the beauty blender one, it might be better to use fewer, or at least place them farther down the hook so that you have some more space near the tip.
Thanks so much for sharing your tips!! 🧶🧶🧶
I’ve just found your channel and have been binge watching your videos. The last one on reviewing products, I nearly spat my tea out when you talked about the hook that lights up!
I love the soft grip hooks and was looking to purchase some new ones and came across the light up hooks! I was so preplexed by them and couldn’t think how they would be of any use! You said it all with your rant! 🤣
Loving your videos so much and after crocheting for 20+ years, I’m learning new things and techniques from you, so thank you very much, got yourself another subscriber. ❤
Thank you! I'm so glad you're enjoying the videos! ❤
i have BAD carpel tunnel, i use those small triangle makeup sponges on my crochet hook handle, you can puzzle them together however you need for support in different hand areas, they dont move around and you dont need to cut them
That's great! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I have to share with you - my son's girlfriend is a crocheter so I shared your "bonus hack" with both of them! She loved the idea of teaching him to weave in the ends for her!
Haha!! Love it! 🧶🪡❤️
I personally wrap a rectangle of half inch high density foam around my hooks and secure it with self adhesive bandage and it works great since you can really shape it to whatever shape works best for you. Best part is I had the foam leftover from a project!
That's a great idea! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I LOVE the idea of starting with one size up on a foundation chain! I crochet tight so sometimes that first row is frustrating and I bet it would help a lot with the shape of my end project! Thanks! ❤
It really is a great trick! ❤
I use several of these hacks but on the yarn winder putting the label inside I also pull the end of the yarn through the label so it’s an easy center pull yarn cake.😊
Oooh!!! I love that idea!! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Thank you for the tops some i will be trying
You're so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
Some funny and mostly doable hacks!😃 I love that you try new thing for us - such as roasting Piglet!😆😁
But the "hack" about using a larger hook for the foundation chain is old news (at least for me), I've been doing that for many years.
I don't know how I missed the larger hook size for a chain! 🤣 I'm going to do that from now on! 🧶🧶🧶
It’s not that common in crochet but I think it’s common in knitting, I was taught to cast on holding both needles together, but maybe that’s because I am a very tight knitter.
Thank You for compiling these tips…I particularly like the one for going a hook higher for the foundation chain
You are so welcome! 🧶🧶🧶
The larger hook for foundation row is great when you cannot do foundationless! Nice ideas:)
Thank you! 🧶🧶🧶
This video was a lot of fun. God bless you dear!
Glad you enjoyed it! 🧶🧶🧶
The chain 3 alternative is also called a standing stitch. Total game-changer.
Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶
Really love your channel! Thankyou! My GP grandaughter got some 'sponge cylinders' of differing shapes and sizes for different applications... crochet hooks, teaspoon, paring knife, pen etc etc. They help me to keep doing things I would'nt have been able otherwise. I live in South Africa and look forward to your future videos!! Thankyou, Fran
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing, Fran! 🧶🧶🧶
In the uk, Vanish is in pretty bright pink tubs and I get the labels off quite easily and use them for storing hooks, needles and they match my pink manual folders 👌they also come in various sizes too.
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
I swear by your tip #4. It was a game changer for me keeping my edges straight and orderly
I really like that one too! 🧶🧶🧶
0:15 I don’t know why this was so funny to me 😂 I guess it’s because I didn’t expect you to hold up a lighter to the doll’s butt 😂
😂😂😂
😂😅
Some of these are fun and handy. Thank you for testing them out!! The 2 sc on top of each other is something I 'invented' when I just started crocheting about 8/9 years ago. The make-up sponges, I use 1 ( of those large ones you had) but with the hook inserted from blunt to tip end. Fits perfectly in my hand. When I start a project I usually start with foundation sc or dc. Also very stretchy and no need to switch a hooksize. For switching colours you have other methods that are really almost invisible. When something needs to be really clean, I use those.
Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
So much fun, Elise!! I love your videos!!
Thank you so much, Lana! ❤️🧶❤️🧶
I've only seen the Aurora once, but it was mesmerizing! The colorways are a lovely choice.
I can only imagine! ❤️
As a knitter, I was taught the hack for going up a size for both the cast on and cast off row, back in the days before the word hack was used 😂 so it seemed sensible to do the same thing with crochet when I realised my starting chain or foundation row was so much tighter.
Who would have thought it was a hack? 😊
I've never heard that about knitting either! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
When I started knitting, I just used both of the needles to cast on because I found it really hard to knit at the start because of the tension.
1. An oatmeal container works well for yarn fed container too. Skeins or balls both work.
Save and reuse other plastic containers.
2. Oh my the tennisball would be hard to get used to... But you could start out by using the beauty blender or tennis ball to start out and teach it.
3. The sharpy hack was amazing.
4. The larger hook, for chaining.. Great idea!
I saved this video for reference
I'm so glad you enjoyed it! 🧶🧶🧶
With the beauty blenders on your crochet hook...I would try putting just 1 of them right side up (not sideways like you put them on) and see how that feels... If you need more, try 2.
After I did the experiment I had the exact same thought! ❤️❤️❤️
OMG I wish I had known loooooong ago about the size up for the chain !! Will always do that from now on thanks...just finished a Turkish stitch blanket and I hate the way the chain row is screwing up the look of the blanket even trying to stretch it out..thanks again .
I wish that I had known about going up a hook size for the chain too! It has made a huge difference already as I'm working on a blanket right now! 🧶🧶🧶
Elise, this is not a TikTok hack, but I have to share it. I have just discovered amigurumi and your you tube channel, about a month or two ago and have been binge watching. I have been crocheting for decades but I had never made these cute projects before. I fell in love with them, and I am particularly drawn to the dolls. I just finished making my 2nd doll ever, so I really don't know that much about the process. The pattern had me make the head, then the legs, arms and body. I had to sew the head onto the body, but once I had done this, her head was wobbly. I didn't know how to fix it. I thought of wooden chop sticks and poking them through the top of her head, but I didn't have any. But what I did have were small flat wooden coffee stirring sticks. I use to them to stir paint in my little paint bottles. So, I took a few of them, about 3 - 4 and I cut a point on one end (you can also cut the length) and stuck them through the top of her head pushing her head in until I got the stick down into the middle of the top half of her head. I positioned them as close the edge of her neck as I could estimate it, and it worked. Fixing a wobbly head after your project is done is too good a tip not to pass onto everyone. I got the coffee stirring sticks on Amazon, and I think I got about 600- 800 of them for about $5.00-6.00. Please don't quote me on price, I have had them for quite a while.
Wow!!! That was a genius way to fix that!! Thanks for sharing!!! 🧶🧶🧶
it's good to see you on again
I absoutly love those big warm shawls
I publish a video almost every week! Thanks! 🧶🧶🧶
I used a plastic Folgers can for yarn cakes.
That's a great idea!! 🧶🧶🧶
Absolutely use a larger hook for the foundation chain! Also consider using a larger hook as well if you need to add chain stitches in the middle of your piece such as creating the space for the handle of a bag, or the hole for your thumb on a mitten.
Great tip! Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶
Love the empty disinfectant wipes box for holding your working yarn ❤
I'm so glad! ❤
For the beauty blender idea, place it length ways tip towards the tip and a larger one. Just use one larger one. That would improve the flexibility.
Thanks for sharing! I'll try that! 🧶🧶🧶
The single crochet as DC turning chain is LIFE CHANGING, saw the technique on Instagram reels a few months back and never go back to chain 3 ever again
Right??? It's amazing!!! 🧶🧶🧶
One of my favourite crochet tutorial channels on YT (Blossom Crochet) uses this technique and it has definitely been one of the best tips I’ve ever seen.