Crochet Tension

[DawninCal]

Do any of you crochet?

I am trying to teach myself how to crochet. While I'm getting comfortable with the stitches, I'm finding that my tension on the yarn is way too tight and it's making the resulting work curl up instead of lay flat.

Looking for tips, tricks and suggestions on how to put less tension on the yarn.



Dawn

[michelle]

That happens to a lot of newbies - and even me if I haven’t done it for awhile. You have to get used to holding the yarn loosely in the left hand. You want the yarn between the hands to not quite sag. I hope this makes sense.

[caeterle]

Tension is a problem with everything. I remember my first bead loomed items. Nothing like a crunched up bracelet with beads desperately trying to sit on top of one another.
I think it's because beginners want to avoid holes or loose spots and therefore go to the other extreme.
Michelle's advice is spot on.

[DawninCal]

Thank you both.

I agree, Cat. When I was learning to wrap and weave with wire, my tension was always too tight and I still have to watch myself. I always attributed it to my obsession with neat and tidy stitches, but ended up kinking and breaking my wire instead.

Michelle, I will try your advice. I imagine part of it is just getting a feel for it and practice will help with that.



Dawn

[Irith-Rita]

This happened to me too when I started to crochet. After a while I found a way to loosen the tension. A matter of practice.