Yikes, after 30 years, self-taught, see I have been doing it wrong all along, for the exact reason she explained. Kind of wondered about the ridge but had no one to ask. Duh. What a happy difference!
I've been crocheting fifty years and I use one loop intentionally when want a ribbed look. It is a matter of what outcome I want. I create outside the rules as I want and when it works for me.
here's a tip for beginning crocheters that took this old crafter decades to figure out! If you are using a foundation chain - BEFORE you start to work the stitches of your first row, lay your chain down on a flat surface, like a table. If you lay it 'right side up', you will see the V's of the chain that are just like the tops of the stitches in your piece. This is where most people put their first stitches, and then they realize their first stitches end up being a little...stretched is the way I would say it. It also creates a strange little edge. Now, flip that chain over to the 'wrong side up'. You will see a third, smaller loop, what some people call the 'back bump' or the 'spine' of your chain. While it is true that this can be a little difficult until you get used to it, there are a few benefits to putting your starting stitches into the spine of your chain. #1 - if you are anything like me when I was learning to crochet, my starting chains were always uneven. I would have some chains that were larger than others, and it would make my first row ripple a bit, because the tension in my stitches were uneven. Putting your stitches in the spine of your chain, helps even out the chain, which, in turn, helps to even out your first row of stitches. #2 - Most patterns (especially blankets and scarves) have an edging stitch to put around your work to give it that finished flair. Remember before, when I mentioned that the first row of stitches can end up being a little 'stretched'? This tends to show up when doing the edging. I used to find the edging along the bottom of my projects would also 'stretch', there would be little gaps between my first row, and my edging. By putting your first row in the spine of the chain, when your work comes to the edging stage, it will be easier to edge that bottom row, and when the edging is complete, it will match the edging of the top row, which makes the pattern more uniform. The reason why is because... #3 - When you put your first stitches in the spine of the chain, what you are leaving is the top of the chain. The top of the chain is the same as the top of your stitches: That V that you always work under (or into depending on what the stitch calls for) This makes it easier to count your stitches, work edging at the end of the project, and sometimes if you decide NOT to use edging, it keeps the project looking uniform, which always looks more professional. Because your sides will match each other, and your top and bottom of your project will also match each other. Now I will admit, putting your first row into the spine of the chain can be a little time consuming, and it can be difficult to start, especially if you crochet your foundation chain tight to start. But this is another added benefit to using the spine of the chain... your foundation chain should always be loose. If it isn't, then the bottom of your project will pull in, which also isn't good. But I realized that when I started using the spine of the chain, I prepared for it by making sure my foundation chain was comfortably loose, which made my finished product even better, because that bottom edge didn't pull in due to the tight stitches.
Thank you so much for this information!!! I have really been having a lot of trouble with my foundation stitches. Your exclamation made things very very clear for me. Once again thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge 😊💚😊💚
@@carolscrazycrochetmore5093 You are most welcome! It took me over 30 years to figure that out, but since I have, I ALWAYS crochet into the spine of the chain, unless a pattern specifically tells me not to, and there have been a few of those.
@@tanyaphilstrom7077 I don't know the first thing about doing videos. Plus, as much as I love to crochet, I have carpal tunnel in both wrists, so I can't crochet as fast or for as long as I used to... it makes it hard to do tutorial or other types of videos.
The fact we only go through one loop after the foundation chain is the exact reason I didn't know to go through both loops on the third row, so I think you hit the nail on the head with that. Thankfully my mom has been crocheting for almost 2 decades and she was able to correct me before it became a habit, so thank you for making this video for those who may not have someone to teach them.
I knit but I am rubbish at crocheting and this was always something I wondered about. I had to watch very carefully on crocheting tutorials to see how people did it. You are the only one who has actually addressed the issue. Thank you.
Thank you thank you! I've recently gone back to crocheting after 25 years and could not figure out why my work didn't look the way it should. After watching many many videos, yours was the one with the answer. SO SIMPLE and easier too! Thanks again.
Ha! It's not a bug it's a feature. I realized going through one loop was the way to make a decorative ridge. I used multiple printed sources to learn in the eighties so I had different views of the standard stitch so it wasn't a newbie mistake for me. Just a fun variation.
I would not consider it a mistake. I have seen many patterns and tutorials stating that going trough one loop, another, both and so on is "the right way" in that particular case. I taught myself to crochet and I find that experimentation is very important. Going through only one loop "by mistake" showed me that such technique is the best if your project requires more elasticity, and it actually creates a nice edge in the work, which looks even better if you are working with several colours. Everyone, please feel free to work the stitches in every way you can think of and see what you create. Surely you will be amazed by the different textures that result from it.
If you want to follow a designers pattern and have your end product looking like the initial design then it's important to know what the designer means by each stitch term. That's why they have names after all. If you always do a flsc when the pattern asks for a sc it's not gonna look right. Experimentation and doing your own thing is brilliant but knowing what the terms mean is important too
It is a mistake not because of the crocheting itself but because beginners do it non intentionally and may end up with an inconsistent piece. Of course people are free to do as they wish but I find it valuable as a beginner to follow a certain rule so that when they're really good at it they know how to break it consistently and purposefully :D
i only started crocheting 3 days ago and I was doing this exact thing! yesterday I was experimenting because mine didn’t look the same as other peoples in UA-cam and realised I was meant to do both!!
*me going back and unravelling everything i have ever crocheted after watching this* so glad i saw this before i got in too deep into my current project!!
Thank you for this lovely clear class. I am beginner even though I have been a knitter for 50+ years. I also find the different terminology between English and American crochet confusing. I am so glad to find your channel.
A BIG THANK YOU: FINALLY someone explains it clearly! I just started to learn to crochet by following a youtube video, just starting my 5th granny square. The tutorial is otherwise clear but due to the limitations of the video and my screen, I was confused if I should go UNDER the stitch (as explained here) or THROUGH the stitch. Wasn't I lucky to come across this tutorial while I am still trying to figure out the basics! I don't know anyone who knows how to crochet and book tutorials never made sense, so I am totally reliant on UA-cam videos.
Thank you for teaching this!!! I have been trying to teach myself how to crochet with videos and have found many helpful tutorials. However, I have not been sure which loop to enter into when chaining and could not find any videos with that info. . You are the ONLY person who has taught this. I really appreciate the time you have taken to offer how to videos on Crocheting!
I learned to crochet 58 years ago from my grandmother. She called those "V" stitches "bird's feet" and taught me to go under the whole "foot." That's how I've taught my niece. I only learned the rib under one loop in the past 10 years. Good explanation for new hookers.
@Rozie Mahdi ~ I just recommended another lady on this thread to Crystal from Bag O Day here on YT. She's one of the VERY BEST here. She has tons of tutorials, anything you'd ever want or be able to crochet, lol She honestly is amazing. If you subscribe to Bag O Day, trust me, you will NOT be disappointed. She has a give away going on now too. $700.00 in free yarn. You can't beat that either. Crystal is a real sweetheart, give her a try.
I taught myself to crochet with UA-cam 2 years ago.. I crocheted the incorrect way(in this video) for an ENTIRE year! I couldn’t figure out why my projects weren’t looking like the pictures I saw online. Thank you for posting this video! Everyone new to crochet should see this!
Hi. I am sure it mentions what I am going to say already but I intentionally go into the front part of the V as i like the pattern it makes esp after doing a few rows. I believe some patterns actually ask for the crocheter to go into the front or back part of the V. I was self taught about 50 odd years ago and I def didn't know this years ago. As long as the same method is used for the row or project then I don't think it matters. Computers and utube have made a big difference to educating new or old crocheters in fabulous ways. I was self taught and only knew our group of 4-8 girls- who sat on the playground steps each playtime with our crocheted blankets on our laps- to learn from. We all prob made and passed on the same mistakes and I wouldn't change it for anything. Just Happy crocheting and special thanks to anyone that puts the effort into helping us all learn. Thank you
I was taught to crochet over 50 years ago from 3 very professional crocheters they taught me the one Loop pick up to and then if I dropped a stitch it showed and they would rip it all the way out to The One I dropped and I would do it over and over again, I was taught to crochet without dropping a stitch, this is a newer way of doing it but maybe back then they taught us that way to keep us from dropping stitches, love the video thank you so much for the info have a blessed day!
I don't think it's a mistake, it might depend on the pattern. The instructions on the project I'm currently working on made sure to state to go through both loops. Pay attention to your pattern and instructions...
Well, she never said it’s a mistake. In the video she mentioned that UNLESS the pattern states to go through only the front loop, the standard stitch will have to go through both loops.
Lol ... i am a newbie and made 10 practice swatches going thru one loop ... then all of the sudden it hit me that I was making the mistake due to exactly your explanation ... it didnt look right ....so i tried two loops and a-ha ... it looked so much better. great tutorial
I been crocheting for many years and I had friends who were new to crocheting at the time come up to me and show me some of the projects that they were working on at the time and they were saying that it didn't look anything like the completed project in the photo/tutorial, so I would ask them to show me the pattern so that I can show them how to do the stiches properly. Now that I have found these videos on you tube, I've been telling them to go check them out.
There are crochet patterns that call for going through just the front loop of the V or just the back loop. Going through the front loop only makes a sort of bubble effect that is popular for Amigirumi. And going through the back loop only is how you make ridged dishcloths!
I did the exact same thing! I learned from Stitch n Bitch: The Happy Hooker, something like fifteen years ago, and without the benefit of video I did not realize you're supposed to go through both loops for aaaaaaages!
Ugh been crocheting for a lot of years could never figure out where the darn line was coming from. Self taught though. Thanks for setting it straight lol
This is a good topic and explanation. Thank you! I think this happens because of the images on the guides to basic crochet stitches. They DO often show the difference between front/back/both loops, but on actual stitches they are only going through one loop. It's because the images drawn are stitches worked into the foundation chain and not in a regular row. I noticed this when trying to make a printout for students. I found an instructor who actually does the first row into the BACK HUMP of the foundation chain. This gives a nice finished look and makes it easier to stitch into when making a border on your work because you are able to work into the "Vs". Thanks again for addressing this. It's very helpful!
Wait, WHAT?? I just started and been practicing my stitches for a week and watching countless “how to” videos and not one of them emphasized this nor did I even notice this in their videos. My mind is blown! So glad I stumbled on this video. Thank you!
Same, one video even told me to only go through one loop. At some point I stopped doing that on my own, but it still shocks me that they never explicitly said to go through both.
Most useful.... thank you ! How come I didn't realize this. I started an afghan in shell stitch baby afghan watched the video and was humming right along. Then I watched it again and noticed the difference...exactly what you talk about in this video. You really go underneath the row and not into stitch.
Wow thank you so much for posting this. I was very frustrated with my stitches not turning out right and not understanding what I was doing wrong because no other beginner video talks about this. Thank you!!!!!
Nice video. I am self taught. But I've done this both ways. I never knew if one was right or wrong. But used them differently depending oh how I wanted the item to look. ty for the clarification.
Boy, am I ever glad I did it the right way from the beginning. I taught myself by following diagrams in a Woman's Day magazine 48 yrs. ago. I'm actually surprised I did it the right way because often I am guilty of doing something incorrectly & then having to correct myself. What tripped me up when I was first learning was what was the last stitch in a row. I learned using a #1 steel hook & crochet thread & let me tell you, my first practice piece ended up looking like a cape for a Barbie doll ! LOL It should have been straight-sided but it tapered on both ends. I'm so glad I learned to crochet. It's been a passion ever since. You do a nice job of teaching, by the way.
Oh wow. I just started learning and I always thought it was because of my tension. I always wondered why my little swatch always looked tight and never looked like the tutorials. This was the main reason I haven’t progressed to a double crochet yet because I was trying to perfect my single crochet 😭
carmapuchiella hey, at least your work was consistant. I learned to crochet from a 63 square afghan book. Thank goodness for the internet! You can find any stitch and any method. Whatever works for you and is the most comfortable is the best for you as long as you are satisfied with the end results
A useful tip -- thank you. However, I don't think it is possible to 'unlearn' anything, and more than you can 'unsee' or 'unread' anything. You make a new decision to work this way, but the old way is still in your memory.
Thank you so much for this video. Your explanation was so helpful. I want to teach myself how to crochet but I never know which hole to put the needle in. This is the first time anyone admitted that others put the needle in the wrong place. Thank you again
Great video. I was self taught some years back from a book I picked up at the library. It took until recently to realize that I was doing it wrong. Made a big difference.
Thank you so much for the clarification! I just started a few days ago and have been using books and videos to find clarification with this gorgeous hobby. None of them explain or show this concept! The entire "V" is the stitch! 😜
My friend sort of taught me and she told me to actually do it the mistake way I suppose it’s also a stylistic choice though since I do like that little line and find it fancy. Thanks for making me aware though!
Wow. I learned years ago and I thought that only going through one loop was the correct way. Thank you for making this video! Also, this makes it easier because I can really get those loops mixed-up sometimes. :)
You are the first person to explain it where I understand. My problem is the turning and going into the correct stitch. My pattern gets larger and I have to tear it out and start over😢. But I will keep trying. I mastered the grannie square so I will do this. 😊
This was very helpful, and thank you for explaining that it's an actual stitch, but only when the pattern calls for it, or if that's the look you are going for. Patterns are like recipes, they can be tweaked to suit you. Thank you!
Luckily I didn't do this mistake. I did do one loop briefly but I didn't like how the yarn stretched so much and I saw that when I used both loops the yarn didn't stretch as much. Thanks for the video.
This is a great explanation for that problem, but there is another issue for newbies. It comes when the sides are not straight because they are not consistent when they make the turning chain....whether to count it as the first stitch or not. Maybe you already have a video that covers that?! But I always hear some newer crocheters complain that their fabric widens as they crochet.
if the fabric widens as they crocet then then they're not counting their stitches/ being inconsistent. whatever method you use, you have to be consistent because there isnt a right or wrong there. if you skip the first stitch, then make sure you always skip it. if you skip the last stitch, make sure you always skip it but to balance that, you have to not skip the first one. if you do the same thing every time, the width wont change.
Waaaaahhtt? I used to do this, getting both but then i saw this tutorial that says “top part” so i like stoped from young to the v part and just using the top v. Thank you sooo much for doing this, really helps alot especially those who are self thought
Ohhh, that's why my patterns didn't look right. Thank you so much, I've been doing it wrong for the past 3 months 😅 I appreciate you putting up this video
While the video is redundant for me; I am glad this video is out there. Back when I first start crocheting my mom taught me some basics at 13, I didn't touch it again until I was 20. Obviously I had forgotten just about everything she had taught me so I consider myself more self taught now. I was lucky enough to be able to ask my mom questions like this when I re taught myself five years ago. I will say I've used patterns calling for the front/back loop only. That method gives it a kinda step ladder look when used in a long piece, it also gives it a bit of a stretch. My favorite application of the front/back loop method is the collar of my dogs sweater. I love the look/feel and the stretch is perfect for her. Remember, it's not that you're wrong you're simply using a different stitch. Crochet and knitting is simply using yarn to make stuff, even if it doesn't come out right you're still successfully crocheting/knitting.
My aunt showed me how to crochet when I was a kid and I'd only made a few projects here and there over the years. Maybe 20 max. About a month ago, I got really into crocheting and started using YT vids to learn and I finally realized (about a week ago) I'd been doing in wrong FOR 40 YEARS!
I am so glad I watched this video. Thank you for posting. I just started learning about a month ago off of UA-cam videos and even the beginner videos they don't tell you this information and then you wonder why your work looks different than theirs. Thank you so much
THANKYOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU !!...I have Never been a confident Crocheter, and This is what's Always been my Bugbear - I have Never understood 'Where' exactly, to make my stitches, but Now I Get it !! This is the Absolute Best beginner video that I have Ever seen ! I am One Very Happy Lady now !!
You are absolutely correct. Obviously, if your pattern says front or back post stitches, or if your doing double yarn pieces which can be either. I’ve been crocheting for 40 years now, and I’m an advanced crocheter in filet, lace, mosaic, Netherlands styles, etc.
Thank you so much for this!!!! I am self-taught from a book and have been making this mistake for 40+ years. Recently I have begun my first article of clothing and could not get past the gauge swatch...I could not make the rows come out.....now I know WHY!!! You have made me a better crocheter! Proof that we are NEVER to old to learn....no matter how long we have been at this! Bless you!
You are a really good crochet teachet with very careful observations! U reminded me that teaching always needs to be about thinking about the failed experience we have been through!
Omg! THANKYOU!! I have been having this problem as I am teaching myself and I have been going back and worth with his I wasn’t sure how to do it. Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️
I'm just starting to learn from YT videos and I noticed I was doing this. Thank you for explaining that it can be right (if desired) but the true stitch is under 2 strands.
I did this until I saw a pattern with back loop only instructions. Then I saw like "oh I'm supposed to go through both..." it's good that you thought to make this informative video.
Thank you!!! I learned as a child and have crocheted at the novice level off and on for years. Now, I've decided to get serious and learn how to use patterns and I realize I've been doing a lot wrong all my life! I've always only gone through one loop.
I'm glad you made this video. I've one made three things so far from watching UA-cam videos. 2 of those things the person on the video said to just go through one but I think they were reading off a pattern. However I thought that was how you normally did a crochet stitch. Thanks for letting me know you only do that if the pattern says to.
I’ve learned how to crochet from UA-cam 3 years ago. The video I watched was showing the hook go through only the one stitch. I’ve been doing that for 3 years. I’m so happy this video came up on my feed and I’ve just probably learned the right way. Thank you so much for this
I am literally just now teaching myself to crochet using YT videos so thank you so very much for this video! I will learn the "proper" way to crochet now! Thanks again!
This is such a great explanation, thank you! I picked up this habit partly because of what you’ve said, but I also think the videos I’ve watched are not very clear in saying whether to go through the stitch or the front/back loop. I now fully understand what a stitch is, so thank you! Just in time for my next project...baby blanket for my friends first baby! 🙏🏽
Ahhhh! I have been struggling with a project that has really thick yarn and couldn’t figure out what was going wrong! Now I know!! Thank you soooo much!
Thank you!!! I was doing it right but saw a video where they went through the flo and I thought I was doing it wrong so I almost pulled all of my work apart!! Thanks so much!
Wow! I needed this ! Self taught crocheting 🧶 and I did this with every project I’ve made ! I would find myself becoming confused about what I did the first row and realize midway throughout the project. Frustrating. I didn’t realize it was “wrong” or “incorrect” ! Thank you for this tip!
I know this video is from a while back but I just came across it and I'm a newbie and yes I have been doing it the wrong way. Probably because Ive never seen this video first to learn by thank you I'm glad I came across this video.
You are right. I tried to learn by reading a book a few years ago and I did the same thing. Being a knitter I felt it was just too hard to learn crochet. Now that I've found UA-cam I am learning so much and it's fun. Thank you.
I so did that! It was the way I was taught though. 🤔 All my learning since then though, has been different. I think I learned through a blog post that had pictures. And gad seen people do it that way IRL. I eventually figured it out. But now we have you! Yay! Thank you.
Lol im so guilty about this.ive just started learning to crochet 2 days ago ang chaining is already so hard for me since i tend to tug tightly.then i was trying this coaster tutorial that said to just go in the back bump of the stitch.but i find it so hard to look for the next bump and harder to push my hook through it.in the end i looked at what i did and knew i did wrong so i gave up.
thank you~ I have only started crocheting this year, and just realized, there are still loooots to learn~ but im enjoyinh every part of crocheting so there.. thaaanks agaiiin!
I recently started re-learning how to crochet after not having done it since elementary, and I'm so happy I found this video! I have been making this exact type of mistake up until now because in the very beginning, I used to make my stitches way too tight, and so when I tried to put the hook through both strands,# it would end up getting stuck, which just made me assume I did it wrong.
Thank you! I was self taught too and I think I used to go through the one loop when I started but then I did it through both loops because it looked better like you said. So now I know I am doing it right! ☺️😊. Thank you!
Yikes, after 30 years, self-taught, see I have been doing it wrong all along, for the exact reason she explained. Kind of wondered about the ridge but had no one to ask. Duh. What a happy difference!
I've been crocheting fifty years and I use one loop intentionally when want a ribbed look. It is a matter of what outcome I want. I create outside the rules as I want and when it works for me.
YES!
👍👍👍I also use one loop only though I'm not a newbie
Yes, same for me. Whenever I use back loop, it's for ribbings because it looks cute but for the other parts, I use the standard one.
Many patterns are written that way.
exactly. Of course!
im a beginner and self-learning, glad i found this video, because i have been just going under one loop instead of both
Me too and when I found out my mistake I really laughed so hard😁
here's a tip for beginning crocheters that took this old crafter decades to figure out! If you are using a foundation chain - BEFORE you start to work the stitches of your first row, lay your chain down on a flat surface, like a table. If you lay it 'right side up', you will see the V's of the chain that are just like the tops of the stitches in your piece. This is where most people put their first stitches, and then they realize their first stitches end up being a little...stretched is the way I would say it. It also creates a strange little edge.
Now, flip that chain over to the 'wrong side up'. You will see a third, smaller loop, what some people call the 'back bump' or the 'spine' of your chain. While it is true that this can be a little difficult until you get used to it, there are a few benefits to putting your starting stitches into the spine of your chain.
#1 - if you are anything like me when I was learning to crochet, my starting chains were always uneven. I would have some chains that were larger than others, and it would make my first row ripple a bit, because the tension in my stitches were uneven. Putting your stitches in the spine of your chain, helps even out the chain, which, in turn, helps to even out your first row of stitches.
#2 - Most patterns (especially blankets and scarves) have an edging stitch to put around your work to give it that finished flair. Remember before, when I mentioned that the first row of stitches can end up being a little 'stretched'? This tends to show up when doing the edging. I used to find the edging along the bottom of my projects would also 'stretch', there would be little gaps between my first row, and my edging. By putting your first row in the spine of the chain, when your work comes to the edging stage, it will be easier to edge that bottom row, and when the edging is complete, it will match the edging of the top row, which makes the pattern more uniform. The reason why is because...
#3 - When you put your first stitches in the spine of the chain, what you are leaving is the top of the chain. The top of the chain is the same as the top of your stitches: That V that you always work under (or into depending on what the stitch calls for) This makes it easier to count your stitches, work edging at the end of the project, and sometimes if you decide NOT to use edging, it keeps the project looking uniform, which always looks more professional. Because your sides will match each other, and your top and bottom of your project will also match each other.
Now I will admit, putting your first row into the spine of the chain can be a little time consuming, and it can be difficult to start, especially if you crochet your foundation chain tight to start. But this is another added benefit to using the spine of the chain... your foundation chain should always be loose. If it isn't, then the bottom of your project will pull in, which also isn't good. But I realized that when I started using the spine of the chain, I prepared for it by making sure my foundation chain was comfortably loose, which made my finished product even better, because that bottom edge didn't pull in due to the tight stitches.
Thank you so much for this information!!! I have really been having a lot of trouble with my foundation stitches. Your exclamation made things very very clear for me. Once again thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge 😊💚😊💚
@@carolscrazycrochetmore5093 You are most welcome! It took me over 30 years to figure that out, but since I have, I ALWAYS crochet into the spine of the chain, unless a pattern specifically tells me not to, and there have been a few of those.
You should do a video!
@@tanyaphilstrom7077 I don't know the first thing about doing videos. Plus, as much as I love to crochet, I have carpal tunnel in both wrists, so I can't crochet as fast or for as long as I used to... it makes it hard to do tutorial or other types of videos.
The fact we only go through one loop after the foundation chain is the exact reason I didn't know to go through both loops on the third row, so I think you hit the nail on the head with that. Thankfully my mom has been crocheting for almost 2 decades and she was able to correct me before it became a habit, so thank you for making this video for those who may not have someone to teach them.
Thank you for this! I’m teaching myself to crochet during the corona virus social distancing thing. This helped me
same here^^
Same 😀
same here 😊
Me too
I knit but I am rubbish at crocheting and this was always something I wondered about. I had to watch very carefully on crocheting tutorials to see how people did it. You are the only one who has actually addressed the issue. Thank you.
Thank you thank you! I've recently gone back to crocheting after 25 years and could not figure out why my work didn't look the way it should. After watching many many videos, yours was the one with the answer. SO SIMPLE and easier too! Thanks again.
You are so welcome Ellyn! It's amazing what a simple little change can do for your fabric. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. :)
Ha! It's not a bug it's a feature. I realized going through one loop was the way to make a decorative ridge. I used multiple printed sources to learn in the eighties so I had different views of the standard stitch so it wasn't a newbie mistake for me. Just a fun variation.
I would not consider it a mistake. I have seen many patterns and tutorials stating that going trough one loop, another, both and so on is "the right way" in that particular case. I taught myself to crochet and I find that experimentation is very important. Going through only one loop "by mistake" showed me that such technique is the best if your project requires more elasticity, and it actually creates a nice edge in the work, which looks even better if you are working with several colours.
Everyone, please feel free to work the stitches in every way you can think of and see what you create. Surely you will be amazed by the different textures that result from it.
La Madriguera Best comment. 🏆
If you want to follow a designers pattern and have your end product looking like the initial design then it's important to know what the designer means by each stitch term. That's why they have names after all. If you always do a flsc when the pattern asks for a sc it's not gonna look right. Experimentation and doing your own thing is brilliant but knowing what the terms mean is important too
It is a mistake not because of the crocheting itself but because beginners do it non intentionally and may end up with an inconsistent piece. Of course people are free to do as they wish but I find it valuable as a beginner to follow a certain rule so that when they're really good at it they know how to break it consistently and purposefully :D
i only started crocheting 3 days ago and I was doing this exact thing! yesterday I was experimenting because mine didn’t look the same as other peoples in UA-cam and realised I was meant to do both!!
*me going back and unravelling everything i have ever crocheted after watching this* so glad i saw this before i got in too deep into my current project!!
Thank you for this lovely clear class. I am beginner even though I have been a knitter for 50+ years. I also find the different terminology between English and American crochet confusing. I am so glad to find your channel.
A BIG THANK YOU: FINALLY someone explains it clearly! I just started to learn to crochet by following a youtube video, just starting my 5th granny square. The tutorial is otherwise clear but due to the limitations of the video and my screen, I was confused if I should go UNDER the stitch (as explained here) or THROUGH the stitch. Wasn't I lucky to come across this tutorial while I am still trying to figure out the basics! I don't know anyone who knows how to crochet and book tutorials never made sense, so I am totally reliant on UA-cam videos.
Thank you for teaching this!!! I have been trying to teach myself how to crochet with videos and have found many helpful tutorials. However, I have not been sure which loop to enter into when chaining and could not find any videos with that info. . You are the ONLY person who has taught this. I really appreciate the time you have taken to offer how to videos on Crocheting!
I learned to crochet 58 years ago from my grandmother. She called those "V" stitches "bird's feet" and taught me to go under the whole "foot." That's how I've taught my niece. I only learned the rib under one loop in the past 10 years. Good explanation for new hookers.
I love that. I’m teaching my daughter tomorrow and that’s exactly what I will call them, birds feet
Screw the birds feet I’m calling myself a hooker
I am self-taught beginner too. Yes, I feel confused with some tutorials, I'm glad I found your video!!! Thanks a lot to show us our innocent mistake.
@Rozie Mahdi ~ I just recommended another lady on this thread to Crystal from Bag O Day here on YT. She's one of the VERY BEST here. She has tons of tutorials, anything you'd ever want or be able to crochet, lol She honestly is amazing. If you subscribe to Bag O Day, trust me, you will NOT be disappointed. She has a give away going on now too. $700.00 in free yarn. You can't beat that either. Crystal is a real sweetheart, give her a try.
I taught myself to crochet with UA-cam 2 years ago.. I crocheted the incorrect way(in this video) for an ENTIRE year! I couldn’t figure out why my projects weren’t looking like the pictures I saw online. Thank you for posting this video! Everyone new to crochet should see this!
Glad this was helpful 😊
Hi. I am sure it mentions what I am going to say already but I intentionally go into the front part of the V as i like the pattern it makes esp after doing a few rows. I believe some patterns actually ask for the crocheter to go into the front or back part of the V. I was self taught about 50 odd years ago and I def didn't know this years ago. As long as the same method is used for the row or project then I don't think it matters. Computers and utube have made a big difference to educating new or old crocheters in fabulous ways.
I was self taught and only knew our group of 4-8 girls- who sat on the playground steps each playtime with our crocheted blankets on our laps- to learn from. We all prob made and passed on the same mistakes and I wouldn't change it for anything. Just Happy crocheting and special thanks to anyone that puts the effort into helping us all learn. Thank you
I'm glad I found this. I only started last week, making a right mess, but now I know why. Thank you thank you
I was taught to crochet over 50 years ago from 3 very professional crocheters they taught me the one Loop pick up to and then if I dropped a stitch it showed and they would rip it all the way out to The One I dropped and I would do it over and over again, I was taught to crochet without dropping a stitch, this is a newer way of doing it but maybe back then they taught us that way to keep us from dropping stitches, love the video thank you so much for the info have a blessed day!
Thanks for clearing that up.I never could get an answer to it.
I don't think it's a mistake, it might depend on the pattern. The instructions on the project I'm currently working on made sure to state to go through both loops. Pay attention to your pattern and instructions...
Well, she never said it’s a mistake. In the video she mentioned that UNLESS the pattern states to go through only the front loop, the standard stitch will have to go through both loops.
Lol ... i am a newbie and made 10 practice swatches going thru one loop ... then all of the sudden it hit me that I was making the mistake due to exactly your explanation ... it didnt look right ....so i tried two loops and a-ha ... it looked so much better. great tutorial
I been crocheting for many years and I had friends who were new to crocheting at the time come up to me and show me some of the projects that they were working on at the time and they were saying that it didn't look anything like the completed project in the photo/tutorial, so I would ask them to show me the pattern so that I can show them how to do the stiches properly. Now that I have found these videos on you tube, I've been telling them to go check them out.
There are crochet patterns that call for going through just the front loop of the V or just the back loop. Going through the front loop only makes a sort of bubble effect that is popular for Amigirumi. And going through the back loop only is how you make ridged dishcloths!
I did the exact same thing! I learned from Stitch n Bitch: The Happy Hooker, something like fifteen years ago, and without the benefit of video I did not realize you're supposed to go through both loops for aaaaaaages!
Thank you! I have been trying to teach myself using videos and no one has mentioned to go under both loops.
Ugh been crocheting for a lot of years could never figure out where the darn line was coming from. Self taught though. Thanks for setting it straight lol
This is a good topic and explanation. Thank you! I think this happens because of the images on the guides to basic crochet stitches. They DO often show the difference between front/back/both loops, but on actual stitches they are only going through one loop. It's because the images drawn are stitches worked into the foundation chain and not in a regular row. I noticed this when trying to make a printout for students. I found an instructor who actually does the first row into the BACK HUMP of the foundation chain. This gives a nice finished look and makes it easier to stitch into when making a border on your work because you are able to work into the "Vs". Thanks again for addressing this. It's very helpful!
Angela G Florida I've always worked into both top "humps" on the foundation chain, I'll give the back hump method a go next time!
I have just started learning crochet watching UA-cam as I always wanted to learn it. What you told as a mistake was taught in the beginners video
Wait, WHAT?? I just started and been practicing my stitches for a week and watching countless “how to” videos and not one of them emphasized this nor did I even notice this in their videos. My mind is blown! So glad I stumbled on this video. Thank you!
Same, one video even told me to only go through one loop. At some point I stopped doing that on my own, but it still shocks me that they never explicitly said to go through both.
Thank you so much, I have been doing this exact mistake.
Most useful.... thank you ! How come I didn't realize this. I started an afghan in shell stitch baby afghan watched the video and was humming right along. Then I watched it again and noticed the difference...exactly what you talk about in this video. You really go underneath the row and not into stitch.
so glad i saw this, was trying to figure out why mine looks so ugly when i know i have pretty tight tension, yet it's full of gaps!
lol same!!!!
Wow thank you so much for posting this. I was very frustrated with my stitches not turning out right and not understanding what I was doing wrong because no other beginner video talks about this. Thank you!!!!!
Same here..
I have been crocheting for years, and I never have been told that. Thank you so much for clarifying that for me. It makes so much sense.
Nice video. I am self taught. But I've done this both ways. I never knew if one was right or wrong. But used them differently depending oh how I wanted the item to look. ty for the clarification.
Boy, am I ever glad I did it the right way from the beginning. I taught myself by following diagrams in a Woman's Day magazine 48 yrs. ago. I'm actually surprised I did it the right way because often I am guilty of doing something incorrectly & then having to correct myself. What tripped me up when I was first learning was what was the last stitch in a row. I learned using a #1 steel hook & crochet thread & let me tell you, my first practice piece ended up looking like a cape for a Barbie doll ! LOL It should have been straight-sided but it tapered on both ends. I'm so glad I learned to crochet. It's been a passion ever since. You do a nice job of teaching, by the way.
Oh wow. I just started learning and I always thought it was because of my tension. I always wondered why my little swatch always looked tight and never looked like the tutorials. This was the main reason I haven’t progressed to a double crochet yet because I was trying to perfect my single crochet 😭
I’ve been crocheting (self taught) for OVER 15 YEARS and I’ve been making this mistake the ENTIRE TIME!! 🤦🏽♀️
carmapuchiella hey, at least your work was consistant. I learned to crochet from a 63 square afghan book. Thank goodness for the internet! You can find any stitch and any method. Whatever works for you and is the most comfortable is the best for you as long as you are satisfied with the end results
A useful tip -- thank you. However, I don't think it is possible to 'unlearn' anything, and more than you can 'unsee' or 'unread' anything. You make a new decision to work this way, but the old way is still in your memory.
Thank you so much for this video. Your explanation was so helpful. I want to teach myself how to crochet but I never know which hole to put the needle in. This is the first time anyone admitted that others put the needle in the wrong place. Thank you again
Great video. I was self taught some years back from a book I picked up at the library. It took until recently to realize that I was doing it wrong. Made a big difference.
Thank you so much for the clarification! I just started a few days ago and have been using books and videos to find clarification with this gorgeous hobby. None of them explain or show this concept! The entire "V" is the stitch! 😜
My friend sort of taught me and she told me to actually do it the mistake way
I suppose it’s also a stylistic choice though since I do like that little line and find it fancy.
Thanks for making me aware though!
Wow. I learned years ago and I thought that only going through one loop was the correct way. Thank you for making this video! Also, this makes it easier because I can really get those loops mixed-up sometimes. :)
You are the first person to explain it where I understand.
My problem is the turning and going into the correct stitch. My pattern gets larger and I have to tear it out and start over😢. But I will keep trying. I mastered the grannie square so I will do this. 😊
Instamat1c I love ❤️ that idea 💡!
This is what I have been trying to figure out as a Beginner. You explained it perfectly! Thank you.
Great! I’m glad you found this video 😊
This was very helpful, and thank you for explaining that it's an actual stitch, but only when the pattern calls for it, or if that's the look you are going for. Patterns are like recipes, they can be tweaked to suit you. Thank you!
Luckily I didn't do this mistake. I did do one loop briefly but I didn't like how the yarn stretched so much and I saw that when I used both loops the yarn didn't stretch as much. Thanks for the video.
I'm a newbie and glad that I'm doing it in the right way!! Thank you😊
This is a great explanation for that problem, but there is another issue for newbies. It comes when the sides are not straight because they are not consistent when they make the turning chain....whether to count it as the first stitch or not. Maybe you already have a video that covers that?!
But I always hear some newer crocheters complain that their fabric widens as they crochet.
if the fabric widens as they crocet then then they're not counting their stitches/ being inconsistent. whatever method you use, you have to be consistent because there isnt a right or wrong there. if you skip the first stitch, then make sure you always skip it. if you skip the last stitch, make sure you always skip it but to balance that, you have to not skip the first one. if you do the same thing every time, the width wont change.
i had that problem when i first learned and i had no idea what was happening.. i didnt have it with single crochets, only double
OMG! I am so guilty of this, I am a beginner. Thank you so much for this video..
Waaaaahhtt? I used to do this, getting both but then i saw this tutorial that says “top part” so i like stoped from young to the v part and just using the top v.
Thank you sooo much for doing this, really helps alot especially those who are self thought
It's funny because I never understood the difference between foundation chain and stitching rows.... this video sooooo answered my question!! Thanks
+Jackie Chambers That's wonderful! I'm so glad I could be of help 😊
Ohhh, that's why my patterns didn't look right. Thank you so much, I've been doing it wrong for the past 3 months 😅 I appreciate you putting up this video
I made this mistake for over 20 years. I figured it out about 10 years ago. This is an excellent video to help newbies avoid this.
Thank you. 😊 I’m glad you figured it out!
Honestly, I started learning the standard stitch correctly and second guessed myself when working on a recent project. Thank you for this!
You’re welcome 😊
OMGOSH!!! I made my daughter a 60 X 60 blanket doing it " the wrong way!!! "
Thank you so much for sharing !!!!
I've always wondered what you were supposed to do. Now I know. Thank you.
You are so welcome. I'm glad this video was helpful. :)
While the video is redundant for me; I am glad this video is out there. Back when I first start crocheting my mom taught me some basics at 13, I didn't touch it again until I was 20. Obviously I had forgotten just about everything she had taught me so I consider myself more self taught now. I was lucky enough to be able to ask my mom questions like this when I re taught myself five years ago. I will say I've used patterns calling for the front/back loop only. That method gives it a kinda step ladder look when used in a long piece, it also gives it a bit of a stretch. My favorite application of the front/back loop method is the collar of my dogs sweater. I love the look/feel and the stretch is perfect for her. Remember, it's not that you're wrong you're simply using a different stitch. Crochet and knitting is simply using yarn to make stuff, even if it doesn't come out right you're still successfully crocheting/knitting.
I realize I do this and I did teach myself but I used a UA-cam video and they said to do exactly that and now it’s a habit. Thanks!
My aunt showed me how to crochet when I was a kid and I'd only made a few projects here and there over the years. Maybe 20 max.
About a month ago, I got really into crocheting and started using YT vids to learn and I finally realized (about a week ago) I'd been doing in wrong FOR 40 YEARS!
😲
I am so glad I watched this video. Thank you for posting. I just started learning about a month ago off of UA-cam videos and even the beginner videos they don't tell you this information and then you wonder why your work looks different than theirs. Thank you so much
THANKYOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU !!...I have Never been a confident Crocheter, and This is what's Always been my Bugbear - I have Never understood 'Where' exactly, to make my stitches, but Now I Get it !! This is the Absolute Best beginner video that I have Ever seen ! I am One Very Happy Lady now !!
😊 glad I could be of help
Great tip!! I’m self taught because I get tired of waiting on people to have time for me. Lol . Thanks!!
Oh shoot I’ve been doing this for 14 years!!! I’ve made hundreds of things ahhhhhh! Now I can get rid of that stupid line!!
You are absolutely correct. Obviously, if your pattern says front or back post stitches, or if your doing double yarn pieces which can be either. I’ve been crocheting for 40 years now, and I’m an advanced crocheter in filet, lace, mosaic, Netherlands styles, etc.
Thank you so much for this!!!! I am self-taught from a book and have been making this mistake for 40+ years. Recently I have begun my first article of clothing and could not get past the gauge swatch...I could not make the rows come out.....now I know WHY!!! You have made me a better crocheter! Proof that we are NEVER to old to learn....no matter how long we have been at this! Bless you!
How wonderful to hear that this video solved a problem for you! Thank you for sharing 😊
You are a really good crochet teachet with very careful observations! U reminded me that teaching always needs to be about thinking about the failed experience we have been through!
Omg! THANKYOU!! I have been having this problem as I am teaching myself and I have been going back and worth with his I wasn’t sure how to do it. Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️
I was self taught and done this for years. It was that I started using two skeins at a time that I realized the difference. Thank You.
I'm just starting to learn from YT videos and I noticed I was doing this. Thank you for explaining that it can be right (if desired) but the true stitch is under 2 strands.
I did this until I saw a pattern with back loop only instructions. Then I saw like "oh I'm supposed to go through both..." it's good that you thought to make this informative video.
Thank you!!! I learned as a child and have crocheted at the novice level off and on for years. Now, I've decided to get serious and learn how to use patterns and I realize I've been doing a lot wrong all my life! I've always only gone through one loop.
+Diana G You're welcome 😊 Glad this was useful.
Thank you for making this video. I started learning to crochet yesterday and I had been making this same mistake.
I'm glad you made this video. I've one made three things so far from watching UA-cam videos. 2 of those things the person on the video said to just go through one but I think they were reading off a pattern. However I thought that was how you normally did a crochet stitch. Thanks for letting me know you only do that if the pattern says to.
I’ve learned how to crochet from UA-cam 3 years ago. The video I watched was showing the hook go through only the one stitch. I’ve been doing that for 3 years. I’m so happy this video came up on my feed and I’ve just probably learned the right way. Thank you so much for this
You’re welcome 😊
Me too! I was following a fairly popular tutorial here and it was a single stitch. You could follow the joining line on my granny squares.
I am literally just now teaching myself to crochet using YT videos so thank you so very much for this video! I will learn the "proper" way to crochet now! Thanks again!
This is such a great explanation, thank you! I picked up this habit partly because of what you’ve said, but I also think the videos I’ve watched are not very clear in saying whether to go through the stitch or the front/back loop. I now fully understand what a stitch is, so thank you! Just in time for my next project...baby blanket for my friends first baby! 🙏🏽
Fabulous! I’m glad this was helpful 😊
Ahhhh! I have been struggling with a project that has really thick yarn and couldn’t figure out what was going wrong! Now I know!! Thank you soooo much!
Glad this was helpful 😊
Thank you!!! I was doing it right but saw a video where they went through the flo and I thought I was doing it wrong so I almost pulled all of my work apart!! Thanks so much!
I love your tutorials. I’m not a newbie. However, your tutorials will help me to teach a newbie correctly. Ty 😀
I’m self taught & ive been doing this for so long!! So glad to see this video
I did this the first time too. Then as I watched more videos I noticed I need to go through both. Haha. Thanks for this too!
Thank you very much! I was confused but you made it clear as day, especially how you explained why beginner crocheters do this.
Wow! I needed this ! Self taught crocheting 🧶 and I did this with every project I’ve made ! I would find myself becoming confused about what I did the first row and realize midway throughout the project. Frustrating. I didn’t realize it was “wrong” or “incorrect” ! Thank you for this tip!
Glad I could help 😊
I know this video is from a while back but I just came across it and I'm a newbie and yes I have been doing it the wrong way. Probably because Ive never seen this video first to learn by thank you I'm glad I came across this video.
Me too!!!
I had that question for a long time. Finally, I saw it demonstrated on UA-cam. Thankful for YT. Thanks for clarifying.
Oh my gosh. Game changer. I have been doing this wrong for DECADES! Thank you!!!
You are right. I tried to learn by reading a book a few years ago and I did the same thing. Being a knitter I felt it was just too hard to learn crochet. Now that I've found UA-cam I am learning so much and it's fun. Thank you.
I’m so glad to hear this 😊
I often wondered about this exact thing. Thank you for sharing this. Very helpful. Luckily I have a good habit!
I so did that! It was the way I was taught though. 🤔 All my learning since then though, has been different. I think I learned through a blog post that had pictures. And gad seen people do it that way IRL. I eventually figured it out. But now we have you! Yay! Thank you.
Lol im so guilty about this.ive just started learning to crochet 2 days ago ang chaining is already so hard for me since i tend to tug tightly.then i was trying this coaster tutorial that said to just go in the back bump of the stitch.but i find it so hard to look for the next bump and harder to push my hook through it.in the end i looked at what i did and knew i did wrong so i gave up.
Try again using the 'chainless' crochet stitch.
Thank you so much I wondered why mine looked so odd - so glad I found this 🙏🏻
thank you~ I have only started crocheting this year, and just realized, there are still loooots to learn~ but im enjoyinh every part of crocheting so there.. thaaanks agaiiin!
Thank you, m a self learn beginner, just 1 month back, this is the mistake I make. Thank you
I recently started re-learning how to crochet after not having done it since elementary, and I'm so happy I found this video! I have been making this exact type of mistake up until now because in the very beginning, I used to make my stitches way too tight, and so when I tried to put the hook through both strands,# it would end up getting stuck, which just made me assume I did it wrong.
Thank you! I was self taught too and I think I used to go through the one loop when I started but then I did it through both loops because it looked better like you said. So now I know I am doing it right! ☺️😊. Thank you!