Too Loose

[karishema]

My beginning chain and other stitches are always too loose.

I hold the hook like a pen, and wrap the thread around my pinkie.

When directed to use a G hook, I have to use a D to get the gauge.

How can I correct this.

[wildrosehips]

In my right hand, I hold the hook, between my thumb & forefinger,

with the other three gently keeping pressure from it moving & holding it straight, like an arrow across my front.

 

After the slip knot, I yarn over, with the thread/yarn over my forefinger

holding the "tail" with my Left hand's thumb and forefinger,

in-between forefinger and second finger, holding with ring & pinkie fingers.

 

I then slip my hook between yarn & forefinger and make chain, stitch, etc.

 

This might take some practice for you, as it quite different from the method you are referring. I never could do it the "correct" way and found because I was forced to be right-handed as a child this was a wierd "lefty" way of crocheting. But it works and I never have a gauge problem.

 

I do hope this has helped. I could email pictures, if you get stuck,

or wish to learn this style.

 

~Annie

@>--,--- (by any other name)

[losingmymind2]

Practice making chains with the size hook called for in a pattern, work a gauge swatch, then frog it and do it again and again until you get the right size. With practice you will be able to work tightly or loosely, depending on what the item you are making needs.

 

For stuffed toys, etc. you want a very tight stitch so the stuffing doesn't show, but fora shawl you may want a loose, drapey stitch.