Yarn Tension and Crocheting

So, last learning project post I was attempting to use cotton yarn for the first time, and exploring adjusting the size of the hat. As I continued with my bucket hat, I quickly realized that my stitches were too tight, leading to a misshapen piece that was waaay too small for me or my partner’s head… oops! (see failed attempt on the right) Determined to improve, I delved into the world of yarn tension, a fundamental aspect of crocheting that I’m still learning to perfect. Yarn tension refers to how tightly or loosely you hold your yarn while working, directly impacting the size and appearance of your stitches. Achieving consistent tension ensures that your projects turn out as intended, with uniform stitches and accurate dimensions. This article about yarn tension and why it matters covers everything from hooks, yarn types, signs your tension is off, and remedies to fix your tension.

How to Fix Tension Issues

To address my tension issues, I explored various techniques and resources. This helpful guide on yarn tension emphasizes the importance of how you hold your yarn and hook. It suggested experimenting with different methods to find a comfortable grip that promotes even tension. For me, I found that wrapping the yarn around my pinky finger and over my index finger was easier for me to control (see method 2 in the YouTube video below). The blog also suggests that practicing with swatches before starting a project allows you to adjust your technique and develop muscle memory for consistent tension. In hindsight, I wish I had practiced on a swatch with my cotton yarn instead of diving right into my first attempt.

How My Learning Project is Going

I have one hat completed, and now all I have to do is crochet the Shrek ears, and attach them! I’m still undecided if I want to block this project or not. As for my tension struggles, I was able to complete a hat that was much better the second time around (see image on left). I found a more comfortable way to hold my yarn which helped my stitches become more even. More so, the tension improved as I had more practice using the cotton yarn. This journey taught me that mastering yarn tension is not only about technique but also about practice and persistence! Fellow crocheters, what methods have you found effective in achieving consistent yarn tension? Also, have you ever tried a crochet tension ring– is it worth it?