Let’s face it—we’ve all been there. You’re halfway through a blanket and suddenly it’s not a rectangle anymore—it’s a trapezoid with commitment issues. Or maybe your scarf is mysteriously shrinking with every row. Don’t worry, friend. I’m here to walk you through five of the most common crochet mistakes and how to fix them. In this post, we’ll explore not just the mistakes, but also the best practices to ensure your crochet projects turn out beautifully, whether you’re making a cozy blanket or a cute scarf. Understanding these pitfalls will help you become a more confident crocheter.

Common Crochet Mistakes to Avoid

1. Twisting Your Foundation Chain – This one’s a classic! It’s so easy to twist that first chain when you’re starting a project. Fix it by laying your chain flat and checking it hasn’t looped before joining in the round. Better yet, work the first row before joining!

To further illustrate, think of your foundation chain as the base of a house. If the foundation is not laid correctly, the entire structure will be compromised. So, take your time and ensure that your chain is straight and untwisted to set yourself up for success.

1. Twisting Your Foundation Chain – This one’s a classic! It’s so easy to twist that first chain when you’re starting a project. Fix it by laying your chain flat and checking it hasn’t looped before joining in the round. Better yet, work the first row before joining! If you do find yourself with a twisted chain, don’t panic. Simply unravel it, take a deep breath, and start again with a mindful approach.

2. Losing Track of Your Stitch Count. Ever notice your projects get mysteriously wider or narrower? It’s probably a stitch count issue. Count your stitches at the end of every row until you build up consistency. Stitch markers can also save your sanity.

Additionally, consider writing down your stitch count as you go along. This simple practice can prevent frustration and keep your project on track. Many experienced crocheters utilize a stitch counter app on their phones to maintain accuracy and ease.

2. Losing Track of Your Stitch Count. Ever notice your projects get mysteriously wider or narrower? It’s probably a stitch count issue. Count your stitches at the end of every row until you build up consistency. Stitch markers can also save your sanity. Placing markers at intervals can help you stay focused, especially during complex patterns.

3. Not Reading the Pattern Fully – Guilty! Before diving into a pattern, give it a full read. It saves a ton of time and yarn heartache. Many patterns give special instructions or repeat sections you might miss with a quick glance.

Another tip is to visualize the finished project as you read through the pattern. This mental image can guide your hands and reinforce your understanding of the steps involved. Every pattern has its quirks; understanding them right from the start can save you from future headaches.

3. Not Reading the Pattern Fully – Guilty! Before diving into a pattern, give it a full read. It saves a ton of time and yarn heartache. Many patterns give special instructions or repeat sections you might miss with a quick glance. Take notes or highlight important parts to keep your workflow smooth.

4. Using the Wrong Hook Size – Hook sizes matter, y’all. The wrong size can throw off your gauge and make your project way too tight or loose. Always check the yarn label and pattern recommendations.

If you find your project is too tight, consider moving up a hook size; if it’s too loose, then down a size might do the trick. Hook sizes can vary by manufacturer, so always double-check.

4. Using the Wrong Hook Size – Hook sizes matter, y’all. The wrong size can throw off your gauge and make your project way too tight or loose. Always check the yarn label and pattern recommendations. Remember, a swatch can be your best friend! Take the time to create a small sample to check your gauge before committing to a big project.

5. Crocheting Too Tight (Or Too Loose). We all start somewhere, and tension control takes practice. If your stitches are strangling your hook or slipping off like butter, it’s time to find your tension sweet spot. Practice with different yarns and hook sizes to see what feels best.

Try to be mindful of your grip on the yarn and hook as you work. Experiment with different techniques such as the pencil grip or knife grip to see which one offers you the most comfort and control. The more you practice, the more you’ll develop your unique tension style.

5. Crocheting Too Tight (Or Too Loose). We all start somewhere, and tension control takes practice. If your stitches are strangling your hook or slipping off like butter, it’s time to find your tension sweet spot. Practice with different yarns and hook sizes to see what feels best. Crochet is all about rhythm; finding your own rhythm will help you feel more at ease with your projects.

Crochet is a journey, not a destination. Mistakes are just part of the learning curve—and you’ll be better for them. So keep going, keep laughing at your wobbly first projects, and most importantly—keep hooking!

By understanding and addressing these common challenges, you can enhance your crochet skills and create beautiful, finished pieces that you’ll be proud of. Happy crocheting!

Crochet is a journey, not a destination. Mistakes are just part of the learning curve—and you’ll be better for them. So keep going, keep laughing at your wobbly first projects, and most importantly—keep hooking! Embrace each mistake as a stepping stone towards becoming a more skilled crocheter. Share your experiences with friends or in online crochet communities to build connections and learn from others. Together, we can overcome any common crochet mistakes!

Your Turn!

Now I want to hear from you—what’s your go-to color combo? Are you a pastel princess, a neon queen, or an earth-tone aficionado?
Comment below, share this post with your crochet friends, and swing by The Loopy Lamb Crochet Shop to see my latest color creations.