I accidentally hit publish when I meant to schedule this video so if you saw it before all the links were in the description I apologize! They're up now but be sure to let me know if I missed any.
if you're still considering speaking to a professional about preventing/ helping with croch3t injury/pain I recommend an occupational therapist for prevention. They tend to have a focus on preventing injury from repetition. ❤
Awwwww thank you SO MUCH Rachel!!! ❤❤❤ I’m so proud and thrilled that I made it on your Like List!!! I love pattern testing for you - and love your videos my friend! Big hugs!! 🤗
I love this! I think the worst trend for me is clothing made from traditional granny squares. It looks like wearing a blanket. I do like the flowery granny squares and the more intricate ones, just not the traditional!
What a great video! Yes, I’d also be so appreciative to see a video on ergonomic health for crochet. There’s a book called Knitting Comfortably that I’ve wanted for forever but it’s like $50 so I still haven’t bitten the bullet on it. As far as butts, 😬 I LOVE THEM, haha. I want to put butts on crocheted flowers, crocheted hot air balloons, crocheted everything… 😅 I can’t help myself, I think there’s an 8 year old boy living in me somewhere.
@@branwynnemay hahaha like I said-you do you! I know they make some people smile. I hope a lot of people would appreciate the ergonomic video especially if I speak with a physical therapist.
I’m totally with you about the loaf kats. I’m soooo over seeing them. And totally agree about the no sew. I enjoy them from time to time, but I like more challenging things.
for those with wrist pain: Copper Fit Compression gloves. You can find them at any pharmacy or grocery store (I got mine at Target for ~$8. I like to wear them if I feel soreness after working for too long on a project. There is a velcro strap to tighten the wrist that gives great support! Depending on the project, I can sometimes even work with them on.
Totally unrelated, but your eye color is POPPING in this video! Your top is matching and bringing out the icy blue, and the contrast with your red hair is making it look extra vibrant!!
I didn't like the bobble stitch either BUT I made a bunch of little pickle plushies as a funny gift, and they have bobble stitch as the little lumps. I made so many that now I am more comfortable with them.
I do enjoy butts on amigurumi! I think it's funny and adds personality to the plushie. I don't really expect crochet plushies to be realistic since most of them are not and it would be kind of boring if they all were. That's the magic of crocheting!
I used to have a group that met twice a month to learn to crochet, the history....like a crochet vlog but in person. Anyway, I had a chiropractor come in (she happened to be a crocheter herself). She went over different exercises and stretches. I would highly recommend you do a video about it. This is something that the crochet community needs to stay healthy and prolong their ability to keep doing this art we love so much.
I am working on a whole video about ergonomics! I don’t really know anything from a professional stand point but I can share what’s worked for me over the years.
I love videos like this because it’s just like we’re having a conversation, you are so great at stating your dislikes without putting anyone down. I know we’ve talked before and I am also a member of the bobble stitch hater club 😂 but it’s so beneficial for art communities to have people who like certain styles and dislike other styles because it creates so much variety. I am also very messy with painting 😂 but a tip is that the dollar sells these little paint trays with little divots in them to squirt the paint into, I just place the eye upside down in them so I can paint on the back. And I use so many baby wipes 😅 I’d love to see a video on tips to keep comfortable while crocheting!
@@CatCakeCrochet you do such a great job with your eyes! I have some of those paint trays so maybe I should try that. And I agree that I love the variety in the crochet community!
I recently made a hook handle insert to make my silicone handled hooks more ergonomic. Most of the inserts are for metal hooks and but I like the heads of my silicone ones better. I'm on the test phase on version 3 to see what works best. Plus holding cotton instead of the silicone makes it so the hook doesn't become sticky when my hand invariably starts to sweat. I'm glad we're working more ergonomic stuff and being more mindful of our bodies when we craft.
@@Tfwcrochet So far attempt three is working great! I made it thick in the middle and apered at the top and bottom, after gettong pain in my pinky from attempt two, which looked more like the drop shape of a makeup sponge. It's kind of inspired by the shape of the furls hooks and it has so far been pretty good. I meant to make it for my 4mm hook but it's too tight on it so I'll have to make another one for my 4/5mm and leave that one for the 3/2 mm hooks, and make a bigger one for my 8 mm. They're removable so one fits several hook sizes
You were cracking me up about the animal butts 😂 (no pun intended) and I definitely thought it was funny when I first saw them but I think it’s being way overdone at this point. I’ve made the booty turtles and I loved seeing peoples faces at markets when they saw them. That being said, not every plushie needs cheeks 🤣 and I totally agree about seeing the same things being made over and over on IG.
I have a permanent hand injury caused by repetitive strain (non hobby related) and have done a significant amount of therapy. Hand/arm/shoulder exercises and stretches are *extremely* important!!! Full range mobility exercies especially. And preventative health practices: if something feels wrong, stop and reassess immediately!! If it persists and you have the ability, seek professional attention (physiotherapist specifically). It may seem excessive, but trust me, you do not want to experience the alternative!!
@@clairegetscrafty thank you for this. I think it’s hard because crocheting is my job so I do it a lot and don’t have much of a choice at this point. I’m trying to be good about stretching and taking breaks especially as I’m getting older
I hate the etsy users that use an AI image with a burning passion. Its false advertising, period. Very scummy. It's also the reason I stopped using pinterest for inspiration. I get very few ads, but it feels like every third amigurumi image is AI generated.
If by blanket yarn you mean chenille (really soft, kind of disintegrates under pressure) I agree, but because everything ends up being soooo big and it's so hard to do little embroidered details. I like to make detailed little amigurumis, like for keychains, and it's just impossible to make tiny things with it. It disintegrates if you stress it a lot, and I always end up mixing the crochet number so it's either too tiny and knit too tight or too big and knit too loose. Now, I do like it sometimes, I did a simple long snake pillow in a beautiful baby blue. Its so soft and they can come in beautiful colors, I remember one being labeled "Watermelon" and it was white, pinkish red and green, but dyed in a way that you had the three colors in the same spot. Made a great cat in the hands of my mother.
@andheregoesmyname have you tried Big Twist Posh or Baby Bear yet? It's a chenille yarn, but smaller in diameter. It's also much stronger and basically doesn't shed.
there are loads of different pre-made ergonomic grips out there. generally you can find them listed as adaptive or arthritis grips or handles. they have a place to insert the tool in the center and they are usually pretty chunky. as for pinterest there is a home feed tuner in the settings; this may help you find new things.
@@Tfwcrochet i can't actually; i've never used them. but the general purpose grips tend to be different shapes than the grips for crochet hooks. i kind of like the look of the meyago or craftbay (they seem identical) foam crochet grips bc those are more chunky than most but there are some silicone ones as well.
I only have the hand problem with smaller hooks, less than 5mm and can't remember where I saw it 🤔 but add a makeup sponge with a hole on all of my hooks. The Clover ones have a lot bigger holes but it really helps and the sponges came from Dollar Tree and Walmart so super cheap!
@@nurseelle I tried this but I unfortunately don’t love the texture and how squishy they are. I’m really sensitive about textures. I wish this worked for me though because it is so cheap and convenient!
I would love a video about all things ergonomic and posture related! I know I have the worst posture (both in general and when I crochet lol) and I’m really trying to be more mindful of it. I have seen videos about using beauty blenders on the handle of the hooks and am curious about it, but haven’t tried it yet. I’ve been seeing some beaded crochet lately, and it’s really gotten me inspired. I have been dabbling in making jewelry for years and years and have TONS of beads of all different sizes. When the realization hit me that I could combine my two favorite things, I was so excited. lol 🤓 Great video! Thanks so much! 💕
@@jenbrooke403 have fun combining beads and crochet. It is so inspiring right? I definitely need to do even more research into ergonomics to make that video.
When I paint safey eyes I stick them to my tabletop with sticky tack. It leaves little to no residue on the front of the eye and holds them securely so I can paint what's suposed to be painted and not also my fingers and/or fronts of the eyes.
i feel you with pinterest, i used to love it but now it just shows me slightly different variations of the same things. plus it’s FULL of AI now. the amount of ads also makes it borderline unusable
I use nail polish to paint safety eyes personally, I tried paint but couldn't get it to coat evenly. Though I only really colour them one solid colour I don't know how well this would work if you wanted to add details.
I can't lie, when you started taking about no see patterns I wasn't thinking of bobble stitch patterns at all. I was thinking about patterns that start with like limbs and then crochet together and make the body off that. Or where you attach the limbs on as you crochet the row. Those are definitely more accessible to me, but to each their own. I hate sewing on limbs if I can avoid is, especially in smaller items where it is hard to see.
I do think the one benefit for beginners on the overly popular patterns is that they might be able to get help or see more videos or examples of the pattern to help them with any struggles they might have. But i definitely agree about the loaf cats or when it was the bees a while back. Very cute but after a while, it's boring to see.
I think some people use the ai photos because a lot of crocheters I see are basically doing a thing of "this was AI but I made it real! Here's the pattern for the real one"
I think the plushies are great and as a seller myself I'm all for making the stuff that sells, but to me a LOT of the plushies really do look the same. And I'm so so sorry but there are only so many "strawberry milk" versions of animals you can make
Yeah… I get that. I feel like some people don’t mind if their stuff looks like everyone else’s. I think of crochet as an art and to me it’s boring if all art looks the same. I like variety!
Yeah I've seen those AI posts too!! I get *why* they are doing it because it pulls people in. I clicked some too because i was like ?? is this real? And it ended up being real (or at least seemed to be since they have real plushie photos)
great video! honestly no sew patterns are my love. right now i'm crocheting little dolls and the whole body is no sew, legs and arms and all. i love it to bits. usually when i make something i have to sew the parts onto, it ends up laying around disassembled for months before i make myself finish it 😅
@@mary1477 that’s definitely a personal preference thing. I have definitely seen some great patterns out there. I think because I love hand sewing and embroidery besides just crocheting it makes sense that sewing on limbs wouldn’t bother me 🤷♀️
@@Tfwcrochet yes, totally. hand sewing is a skill of its own. i can kinda do it, but it just doesn’t hit right. i really appreciate how versatile crocheting is
Etsy has some new rules in the last little bit, the first picture has to be yours, not AI, or a mockup. Also, you have to tell Etsy if it was made with AI now. I agree that it's scummy not to have a real picture as your first one.
Etsys apperently sending notices and "closing" shops that are violating the rules. I think they're going after more of the drop shippers right now. They did say that they are using AI to sniff out those who aren't following policies.
The picture of your dog made me laugh. It kinda looked liked like she was rolling her eyes. I think part of the problem with no sew patterns is a lot of them lack detail. Don’t get me wrong I have bought several but now realize a lot of the differences between animals is just the colors.
Hehe I’m glad you picked up on that. It was by design. She’s a sassy thing. But also sweet. Yes that is true. Which is great for quick market makes but that isn’t my preferred way to make plushies. To each their own!
I love the IDEA of no sew, because I struggle to make the stitches seamless, which is a look I deeply prefer, and I also struggle with attaching things evenly when there's two of them, especially due to the spiral work you use in amigurumi primarily. My eyesight also makes it a little difficult with certain yarns to see the round I'm counting to stitch things into, et cetera ... But I also like making big plushes in worsted weight, so a lot of them that rely on bobbled limbs really irritates me, because they end up so disproportionate and i feel like it's impossible to make the legs actually look like legs and not just a misshapen accidental stitch issue, LOL. It makes me sad that people don't often use things like doll joints, or internal buttons for limb attachment, or the join as you go method, where you crochet the limbs first, then either sew closed and stitch into a single round, or crochet them into your rows by picking up their loops as you go around each round. I've started kind of modifying some limbs to work that way on my own, but it's definitely difficult for some patterns, and I struggle to make it look right because of where the closing is on the limb is like, a knee and you form the whole haunch in the round to get a certain shape. It's a lot to expect from a lot of pattern designers, though, so I can't complain too much, just feels :( that I can't find like, aaaany designers that use these methods more than occasionally, haha!
Everyone hates on the Chunky Boy, but after using it I changed how I hold my hooks. I also heard the hooks with ergonomic handles fit inside the large, but I haven’t tried it yet. I am also a fam of Clover that’s been my go to for most of my products, but the price kills me.
@@Ohemergency they are expensive. I wish I would have just buy the set way back in the day. I now have almost all of them. Except the larger plastic ones. I still may look into a chunky boy or some other hook handle. I’m determined to find something I like
I agree with the cheeky turtle opinion. (The butts.) Very unnecessary. I much prefer (and design) more realistic animals. Plus, now it has been way overdone, anyway. Also, I think people that never do sewing crochet patterns are kind of hurting themselves. They might not like them because they're not good at it. But the only way you can get better is by practicing. (And looking up tips and tricks, and then practicing some more.) They seem to be limiting themselves.
I tend to agree. Like I said in my video you just had to learn to sew “back in my day” (I sound like a granny lol) and it takes practice but you’re right. It’s a skill just like crochet that is learned over time.
I've used polymer clay in the past to customize crochet hooks. It is permanent so that may not be your preferred method. You can do cute designs if you like, and it's easier than paint😊. (be sure all materials are oven safe first though)
@@Tfwcrochet once baked it'll be hard and shouldn't be sticky or anything but I'm sure if you want to you could find a glaze or a top coat that'll give that silicone effect
The algorithms are a problem on all platforms. I show interest in one story out of Indiana, and then my entire feed is just stuff about Indiana. I live 900 miles from Indiana. It was the news story that was of human interest, not Indiana interest.
I know from Knitty Natty about TheKnittingPT who is physical therapist who also loves to craft and have very helpful channel. Although I personally use yoga videos by Jen Hilman who used to be instructor, but now is moving in other direction with her occupation. About the ergonomic hooks, I think I saw from TL Yarn Crafts, but now I couldn't find the concrete video, that you can put a make up beauty blender around the handle of any hook. Just buy the bigger and softer cheap blender and be careful when poker the hole, don't make it directly with the hook because can break the head. Better use same size knitting hook or meat chopsticks.
I really should pay attention to ergonomics more. I'll be slouching in the chair in the dark, crocheting by leaning over my desk, and think, "I wonder why my neck hurts..." When it comes to those AI images, I bet the creators consider them digital mockups. I do feel like they're a little misleading, but I can see their justification for it since they are also showing their own finished projects and the pattern is real.
@@MichelleHartzPhZ lol same here. I slump SO bad when I’m editing. I need a more ergonomic chair. That’s a good point about the ai images. I just don’t like it lol.
If a pattern has an AI photo I skip and blacklist the designer/website altogether. I hate the AI infiltration of art tutorials. It's misleading and way too much work to go through for a result that is DESTINED to be inferior to the idealized example photo.
Okay, that frog butt made me laugh so much. Its like the design of the frog in "the frog detective" video games where you can put a little hat between his eyeballs. Nonsensical but makes me smile every time.
I love e the move to ergonomics. I only crochet amigurumi and knit everything else. So I wish knitting would find a way to move to ergonomics. I will not buy a pattern with an AI picture. Will not. It makes me mad. I also wish I still had my poppy pillow. Of course my son is 19 years old so it makes sense I don't have it. I am going to get a pillow that will help support my arms. Because it does help.
I personally just...dont like working with plush yarn or blanket yarn. It looks good usually, but I am a bit frustrated at the popularity of it right now? Nothing against people who like it, but it seems like every new pattern i see is made with plush yarn and so little use worsted that I just have to guess if it'll look good when I make it with worsted
I totally get that. We all have our preferences on yarn type and it’s hard when patterns don’t line up. With the past couple of patterns I’ve made I make up different versions in different yarn types so people can see that it still looks good!
@@Tfwcrochet I appreciate that! Since the textures are so different, it can be hard to tell what it'll look like or if the details will even transfer well! But yeah totally get why people like plush, just isnt for me
Finally someone else said something abt seeing the same dang plushie over and over!! It makes me feel like theres nothing else out there and its sooooo boring. I have a particular exhaustion for the turtles. God. Please stop making turtles.
Yeah I find it boring too but I’m one of those people who feels a compulsive need to stand out. Some people just like going with the trends. I have to agree that I’m also tired of seeing turtles which is unfortunate because I love turtles! I used to have a pet turtle.
Use a hot glue gun. Put the glue over taper so u won’t ruin your actual hook. I actually wrap with yarn then glue over that to make it thicker. I have severe carpal tunnel and it helps a bunch. Also cheap flexi rod curlers for a handle. Very easy and won’t mess up hooks.
I'm with you about everyone making the same patterns. That's why I make sure to bring different items to my markets. The market has been flooded by the same things and I want to offer unique items. I'm with you also about animal cheeks. I dislike the butt holes too. What animal has a hole shaped like a giant 'x'?
lol giant x holes. I’m not sure. Its not my thing but makes some people happy 🤷♀️ I’m glad you do unique patterns! Do you find they sell well for you? I saw some people on threads saying that only the tried and true patterns sell.
The giant X buttholes is a nod to Japanese animation, in which lots of animals have a cute little x bootyhole. I understand why not everyone likes it, but there IS a reason!
@@Tfwcrochet I've only done two markets so far and, maybe because I'm in Canada (?) the unique patterns have done well. I do offer a few "tried and true" as well. I need to do more research before I can give you a definitive answer. What I don't understand is the number of almost identical patterns that get published. How many bee patterns do we need?
Just as we started talking about no-sew patterns, I was crocheting on an arm to my amigurumi for a pattern where it's expected you sew it... but I just find crocheting to be so much cleaner and faster (for me). When I realized you can crochet knitted or crocheted fabric together, that was such a revelation. I don't mind hand-sewing but the speed of crochet just makes me so much happier.
I also prefer sew-heavy patterns over no-sew ones. I usually end up altering the limbs placement, which you can't change when it's a no-sew one. Booty plushies are funny, but I don't care enough to make my own ones, just enjoying others'. Been wanting some ergonomic handles too, and I've seen GraceFace's video and tried out 2 small pear-shaped beauty blenders pierced onto a hook, it's chonky and they work nice once you get used to it. You can also take it off and put on another bare metal hook. Recently I've been tempted to try out the Tulip Etimo Red hooks, they're so pretty but also so expensive 😅 But knowing myself, I'll get one eventually.
I’m dying to try the tulip hooks. I have heard others who love the clover hooks also like those. Let me know if you like them! I will probably end up buying one soon too lol
I accidentally hit publish when I meant to schedule this video so if you saw it before all the links were in the description I apologize! They're up now but be sure to let me know if I missed any.
if you're still considering speaking to a professional about preventing/ helping with croch3t injury/pain I recommend an occupational therapist for prevention. They tend to have a focus on preventing injury from repetition. ❤
Awwwww thank you SO MUCH Rachel!!! ❤❤❤ I’m so proud and thrilled that I made it on your Like List!!! I love pattern testing for you - and love your videos my friend! Big hugs!! 🤗
You deserve all the praise my friend!!!
I love this! I think the worst trend for me is clothing made from traditional granny squares. It looks like wearing a blanket. I do like the flowery granny squares and the more intricate ones, just not the traditional!
lol it does look like wearing blankets but maybe like that for campy reasons.
i love it because it looks like you’re wearing an afghan
What a great video! Yes, I’d also be so appreciative to see a video on ergonomic health for crochet. There’s a book called Knitting Comfortably that I’ve wanted for forever but it’s like $50 so I still haven’t bitten the bullet on it.
As far as butts, 😬 I LOVE THEM, haha. I want to put butts on crocheted flowers, crocheted hot air balloons, crocheted everything… 😅 I can’t help myself, I think there’s an 8 year old boy living in me somewhere.
@@branwynnemay hahaha like I said-you do you! I know they make some people smile.
I hope a lot of people would appreciate the ergonomic video especially if I speak with a physical therapist.
I’m totally with you about the loaf kats. I’m soooo over seeing them. And totally agree about the no sew. I enjoy them from time to time, but I like more challenging things.
for those with wrist pain: Copper Fit Compression gloves. You can find them at any pharmacy or grocery store (I got mine at Target for ~$8. I like to wear them if I feel soreness after working for too long on a project. There is a velcro strap to tighten the wrist that gives great support! Depending on the project, I can sometimes even work with them on.
@@minervaalderete4480 I use these sometimes but am always forgetting I have them. Thanks for the reminder!
Totally unrelated, but your eye color is POPPING in this video! Your top is matching and bringing out the icy blue, and the contrast with your red hair is making it look extra vibrant!!
Thank you so much 🥹💕
I do not like butts on amigarumi either. Especially if it is a gift for a child. A bit creepy when an adult gives a child something like that.
I think of it more like kids think butts are funny, hence giving a kid a plushie with a big butt
I didn't like the bobble stitch either BUT I made a bunch of little pickle plushies as a funny gift, and they have bobble stitch as the little lumps. I made so many that now I am more comfortable with them.
I do enjoy butts on amigurumi! I think it's funny and adds personality to the plushie. I don't really expect crochet plushies to be realistic since most of them are not and it would be kind of boring if they all were. That's the magic of crocheting!
I can see why people would think it was fun but for some reason it’s just not for me. 🤷♀️
I used to have a group that met twice a month to learn to crochet, the history....like a crochet vlog but in person. Anyway, I had a chiropractor come in (she happened to be a crocheter herself). She went over different exercises and stretches. I would highly recommend you do a video about it. This is something that the crochet community needs to stay healthy and prolong their ability to keep doing this art we love so much.
I am working on a whole video about ergonomics! I don’t really know anything from a professional stand point but I can share what’s worked for me over the years.
I love videos like this because it’s just like we’re having a conversation, you are so great at stating your dislikes without putting anyone down. I know we’ve talked before and I am also a member of the bobble stitch hater club 😂 but it’s so beneficial for art communities to have people who like certain styles and dislike other styles because it creates so much variety.
I am also very messy with painting 😂 but a tip is that the dollar sells these little paint trays with little divots in them to squirt the paint into, I just place the eye upside down in them so I can paint on the back. And I use so many baby wipes 😅
I’d love to see a video on tips to keep comfortable while crocheting!
@@CatCakeCrochet you do such a great job with your eyes! I have some of those paint trays so maybe I should try that. And I agree that I love the variety in the crochet community!
I recently made a hook handle insert to make my silicone handled hooks more ergonomic. Most of the inserts are for metal hooks and but I like the heads of my silicone ones better. I'm on the test phase on version 3 to see what works best. Plus holding cotton instead of the silicone makes it so the hook doesn't become sticky when my hand invariably starts to sweat.
I'm glad we're working more ergonomic stuff and being more mindful of our bodies when we craft.
I love this! You’ll have to keep me updated how the hook handles are going!
@@Tfwcrochet So far attempt three is working great! I made it thick in the middle and apered at the top and bottom, after gettong pain in my pinky from attempt two, which looked more like the drop shape of a makeup sponge. It's kind of inspired by the shape of the furls hooks and it has so far been pretty good. I meant to make it for my 4mm hook but it's too tight on it so I'll have to make another one for my 4/5mm and leave that one for the 3/2 mm hooks, and make a bigger one for my 8 mm. They're removable so one fits several hook sizes
You were cracking me up about the animal butts 😂 (no pun intended) and I definitely thought it was funny when I first saw them but I think it’s being way overdone at this point. I’ve made the booty turtles and I loved seeing peoples faces at markets when they saw them. That being said, not every plushie needs cheeks 🤣 and I totally agree about seeing the same things being made over and over on IG.
Omg cracking up. Such a good pun 😅 I definitely don’t shame anyone for liking plushie butts at all but I just get uncomfortable! I don’t know why!
I have a permanent hand injury caused by repetitive strain (non hobby related) and have done a significant amount of therapy.
Hand/arm/shoulder exercises and stretches are *extremely* important!!! Full range mobility exercies especially. And preventative health practices: if something feels wrong, stop and reassess immediately!! If it persists and you have the ability, seek professional attention (physiotherapist specifically).
It may seem excessive, but trust me, you do not want to experience the alternative!!
@@clairegetscrafty thank you for this. I think it’s hard because crocheting is my job so I do it a lot and don’t have much of a choice at this point. I’m trying to be good about stretching and taking breaks especially as I’m getting older
I hate the etsy users that use an AI image with a burning passion. Its false advertising, period. Very scummy.
It's also the reason I stopped using pinterest for inspiration. I get very few ads, but it feels like every third amigurumi image is AI generated.
I am with you on the bobble stich and it's popularity, I love to sew my parts on. I used makeup sponges on my hooks.
I tried that but the texture was just not quite right for me. I’m particular 😅
I can’t stand plushies made with the blanket yarn, it makes them look like they’re cheap and something you would find in the dollar store
@@MsIniquity I use blanket yarn lol. I think some look better than others depending on people’s skill level 🤷♀️
@@Tfwcrochet I know you do, and I’m sure my opinion of it is not the popular one.
If by blanket yarn you mean chenille (really soft, kind of disintegrates under pressure) I agree, but because everything ends up being soooo big and it's so hard to do little embroidered details. I like to make detailed little amigurumis, like for keychains, and it's just impossible to make tiny things with it. It disintegrates if you stress it a lot, and I always end up mixing the crochet number so it's either too tiny and knit too tight or too big and knit too loose.
Now, I do like it sometimes, I did a simple long snake pillow in a beautiful baby blue. Its so soft and they can come in beautiful colors, I remember one being labeled "Watermelon" and it was white, pinkish red and green, but dyed in a way that you had the three colors in the same spot. Made a great cat in the hands of my mother.
@andheregoesmyname have you tried Big Twist Posh or Baby Bear yet? It's a chenille yarn, but smaller in diameter. It's also much stronger and basically doesn't shed.
@@ayanadixon4763 wow! I'm going to look it up. Thanks for the recommendation!
Hard agree with not liking the butts on plushies
there are loads of different pre-made ergonomic grips out there. generally you can find them listed as adaptive or arthritis grips or handles. they have a place to insert the tool in the center and they are usually pretty chunky.
as for pinterest there is a home feed tuner in the settings; this may help you find new things.
I didn’t know that about Pinterest. Do you have any brands you recommend for those grips you’re talking about?
@@Tfwcrochet i can't actually; i've never used them. but the general purpose grips tend to be different shapes than the grips for crochet hooks. i kind of like the look of the meyago or craftbay (they seem identical) foam crochet grips bc those are more chunky than most but there are some silicone ones as well.
I only have the hand problem with smaller hooks, less than 5mm and can't remember where I saw it 🤔 but add a makeup sponge with a hole on all of my hooks. The Clover ones have a lot bigger holes but it really helps and the sponges came from Dollar Tree and Walmart so super cheap!
@@nurseelle I tried this but I unfortunately don’t love the texture and how squishy they are. I’m really sensitive about textures. I wish this worked for me though because it is so cheap and convenient!
Going to try this , my hand is aching and have a few orders😅
I would love a video about all things ergonomic and posture related! I know I have the worst posture (both in general and when I crochet lol) and I’m really trying to be more mindful of it. I have seen videos about using beauty blenders on the handle of the hooks and am curious about it, but haven’t tried it yet.
I’ve been seeing some beaded crochet lately, and it’s really gotten me inspired. I have been dabbling in making jewelry for years and years and have TONS of beads of all different sizes. When the realization hit me that I could combine my two favorite things, I was so excited. lol 🤓
Great video! Thanks so much! 💕
@@jenbrooke403 have fun combining beads and crochet. It is so inspiring right?
I definitely need to do even more research into ergonomics to make that video.
When I paint safey eyes I stick them to my tabletop with sticky tack. It leaves little to no residue on the front of the eye and holds them securely so I can paint what's suposed to be painted and not also my fingers and/or fronts of the eyes.
i feel you with pinterest, i used to love it but now it just shows me slightly different variations of the same things. plus it’s FULL of AI now. the amount of ads also makes it borderline unusable
Yes so much AI. I hate it 😭
I use nail polish to paint safety eyes personally, I tried paint but couldn't get it to coat evenly. Though I only really colour them one solid colour I don't know how well this would work if you wanted to add details.
@@rinsuu9848 I tried nail polish and it was still a mess lol. I’m so messy!!
I can't lie, when you started taking about no see patterns I wasn't thinking of bobble stitch patterns at all. I was thinking about patterns that start with like limbs and then crochet together and make the body off that. Or where you attach the limbs on as you crochet the row. Those are definitely more accessible to me, but to each their own. I hate sewing on limbs if I can avoid is, especially in smaller items where it is hard to see.
I like patterns that do the legs like that!
I do think the one benefit for beginners on the overly popular patterns is that they might be able to get help or see more videos or examples of the pattern to help them with any struggles they might have. But i definitely agree about the loaf cats or when it was the bees a while back. Very cute but after a while, it's boring to see.
That is a really good point!
I think some people use the ai photos because a lot of crocheters I see are basically doing a thing of "this was AI but I made it real! Here's the pattern for the real one"
@@life_of_naomi I think that is fine for a TH-cam video or Instagram reel but to have it be what you’re actually selling feels weird to me
I think the plushies are great and as a seller myself I'm all for making the stuff that sells, but to me a LOT of the plushies really do look the same. And I'm so so sorry but there are only so many "strawberry milk" versions of animals you can make
Yeah… I get that. I feel like some people don’t mind if their stuff looks like everyone else’s. I think of crochet as an art and to me it’s boring if all art looks the same. I like variety!
Yeah I've seen those AI posts too!! I get *why* they are doing it because it pulls people in. I clicked some too because i was like ?? is this real? And it ended up being real (or at least seemed to be since they have real plushie photos)
The person who I linked gets a lot of sales this way so I guess it works for them but it just feels so icky to me!
@@Tfwcrochet I agree completely
great video! honestly no sew patterns are my love. right now i'm crocheting little dolls and the whole body is no sew, legs and arms and all. i love it to bits. usually when i make something i have to sew the parts onto, it ends up laying around disassembled for months before i make myself finish it 😅
@@mary1477 that’s definitely a personal preference thing. I have definitely seen some great patterns out there. I think because I love hand sewing and embroidery besides just crocheting it makes sense that sewing on limbs wouldn’t bother me 🤷♀️
@@Tfwcrochet yes, totally. hand sewing is a skill of its own. i can kinda do it, but it just doesn’t hit right. i really appreciate how versatile crocheting is
Etsy has some new rules in the last little bit, the first picture has to be yours, not AI, or a mockup.
Also, you have to tell Etsy if it was made with AI now.
I agree that it's scummy not to have a real picture as your first one.
@@craftehmomcreations I did notice that when I was making a new listing. I am not sure how this person is getting away with it
Etsys apperently sending notices and "closing" shops that are violating the rules. I think they're going after more of the drop shippers right now.
They did say that they are using AI to sniff out those who aren't following policies.
The picture of your dog made me laugh. It kinda looked liked like she was rolling her eyes.
I think part of the problem with no sew patterns is a lot of them lack detail. Don’t get me wrong I have bought several but now realize a lot of the differences between animals is just the colors.
Hehe I’m glad you picked up on that. It was by design. She’s a sassy thing. But also sweet.
Yes that is true. Which is great for quick market makes but that isn’t my preferred way to make plushies. To each their own!
Such an enjoyable video! I'm with you on all your dislikes, especially the butts on amigurumis 😂😂 And those crochet AI images really get me worked up!
I’m glad you liked the video! I was holding it together for this video with the AI images but it actually does make me quite upset.
Oh my goodness you amaze me crocheting without looking haha 😂
Haha I’ve been doing it for so long. It’s second nature. 🤷♀️
Yessss the butt thing is so weeeeiiiirrrrd!!
It’s just not my thing but with the current state of the world if it makes someone happy I say go for it 😅
Really, really hate seeing AI pictures on patterns! Great video.
@@canaryknits it bothers me so much!! 😡
I love the IDEA of no sew, because I struggle to make the stitches seamless, which is a look I deeply prefer, and I also struggle with attaching things evenly when there's two of them, especially due to the spiral work you use in amigurumi primarily. My eyesight also makes it a little difficult with certain yarns to see the round I'm counting to stitch things into, et cetera ...
But I also like making big plushes in worsted weight, so a lot of them that rely on bobbled limbs really irritates me, because they end up so disproportionate and i feel like it's impossible to make the legs actually look like legs and not just a misshapen accidental stitch issue, LOL. It makes me sad that people don't often use things like doll joints, or internal buttons for limb attachment, or the join as you go method, where you crochet the limbs first, then either sew closed and stitch into a single round, or crochet them into your rows by picking up their loops as you go around each round.
I've started kind of modifying some limbs to work that way on my own, but it's definitely difficult for some patterns, and I struggle to make it look right because of where the closing is on the limb is like, a knee and you form the whole haunch in the round to get a certain shape.
It's a lot to expect from a lot of pattern designers, though, so I can't complain too much, just feels :( that I can't find like, aaaany designers that use these methods more than occasionally, haha!
Everyone hates on the Chunky Boy, but after using it I changed how I hold my hooks. I also heard the hooks with ergonomic handles fit inside the large, but I haven’t tried it yet. I am also a fam of Clover that’s been my go to for most of my products, but the price kills me.
@@Ohemergency they are expensive. I wish I would have just buy the set way back in the day. I now have almost all of them. Except the larger plastic ones.
I still may look into a chunky boy or some other hook handle. I’m determined to find something I like
I agree with the cheeky turtle opinion. (The butts.) Very unnecessary. I much prefer (and design) more realistic animals. Plus, now it has been way overdone, anyway.
Also, I think people that never do sewing crochet patterns are kind of hurting themselves. They might not like them because they're not good at it. But the only way you can get better is by practicing. (And looking up tips and tricks, and then practicing some more.) They seem to be limiting themselves.
I tend to agree. Like I said in my video you just had to learn to sew “back in my day” (I sound like a granny lol) and it takes practice but you’re right. It’s a skill just like crochet that is learned over time.
Hi Rachel I’m new to your channel and really enjoy your videos.
@@angelaporch2984 glad you’re here ❤️
I've used polymer clay in the past to customize crochet hooks. It is permanent so that may not be your preferred method. You can do cute designs if you like, and it's easier than paint😊. (be sure all materials are oven safe first though)
@@cat-cq2xi I still may try this. Is it a good texture once dry?
@@Tfwcrochet once baked it'll be hard and shouldn't be sticky or anything but I'm sure if you want to you could find a glaze or a top coat that'll give that silicone effect
The algorithms are a problem on all platforms. I show interest in one story out of Indiana, and then my entire feed is just stuff about Indiana. I live 900 miles from Indiana. It was the news story that was of human interest, not Indiana interest.
@@Forbiddenkitty that’s a good point!
19:24 use a tennis ball and make a hole on the top and on the bottom, then just swap out your clover hooks into it
I have seen people do that. I wonder if the tennis ball would be a little toooo big though. Especially for my tiny hands 😆
I know from Knitty Natty about TheKnittingPT who is physical therapist who also loves to craft and have very helpful channel. Although I personally use yoga videos by Jen Hilman who used to be instructor, but now is moving in other direction with her occupation.
About the ergonomic hooks, I think I saw from TL Yarn Crafts, but now I couldn't find the concrete video, that you can put a make up beauty blender around the handle of any hook. Just buy the bigger and softer cheap blender and be careful when poker the hole, don't make it directly with the hook because can break the head. Better use same size knitting hook or meat chopsticks.
@@alekfelis I will check out that channel for sure. Thanks for all the tips!
@@Tfwcrochet you're welcome!
What about Furls hooks? They are ergonomic, absolutely smooth and beautiful.
I have been DYING to try furls but they never have the size I need. I need small hooks like 3.25 or 3.5 and they don’t ever have those.
Wipe the sides and fronts of the eyes with a wet paper towel as you go with safety eye painting
I really should pay attention to ergonomics more. I'll be slouching in the chair in the dark, crocheting by leaning over my desk, and think, "I wonder why my neck hurts..."
When it comes to those AI images, I bet the creators consider them digital mockups. I do feel like they're a little misleading, but I can see their justification for it since they are also showing their own finished projects and the pattern is real.
@@MichelleHartzPhZ lol same here. I slump SO bad when I’m editing. I need a more ergonomic chair.
That’s a good point about the ai images. I just don’t like it lol.
If a pattern has an AI photo I skip and blacklist the designer/website altogether. I hate the AI infiltration of art tutorials. It's misleading and way too much work to go through for a result that is DESTINED to be inferior to the idealized example photo.
Okay, that frog butt made me laugh so much. Its like the design of the frog in "the frog detective" video games where you can put a little hat between his eyeballs. Nonsensical but makes me smile every time.
I can totally see why. I wished I liked them but they always make me so uncomfy lol
Oh my gosh great idea? Can I use this idea for a video aswell? I’ll do credits!
@@CrotchetByMaisy of course. Moonbae crochet deserves the credit!
I will make a bag with the pony beads in the design of my national flag pretty cool
@@MamaArmy_18 a bag is a great idea!
@@Tfwcrochet thanks
I love e the move to ergonomics. I only crochet amigurumi and knit everything else. So I wish knitting would find a way to move to ergonomics. I will not buy a pattern with an AI picture. Will not. It makes me mad. I also wish I still had my poppy pillow. Of course my son is 19 years old so it makes sense I don't have it. I am going to get a pillow that will help support my arms. Because it does help.
@@teacheraprilrogers I got rid of mine too. My youngest is 8. I found mine at the thrift store and I love it so much. Totally a lifesaver.
I personally just...dont like working with plush yarn or blanket yarn. It looks good usually, but I am a bit frustrated at the popularity of it right now? Nothing against people who like it, but it seems like every new pattern i see is made with plush yarn and so little use worsted that I just have to guess if it'll look good when I make it with worsted
I totally get that. We all have our preferences on yarn type and it’s hard when patterns don’t line up. With the past couple of patterns I’ve made I make up different versions in different yarn types so people can see that it still looks good!
@@Tfwcrochet I appreciate that! Since the textures are so different, it can be hard to tell what it'll look like or if the details will even transfer well! But yeah totally get why people like plush, just isnt for me
Finally someone else said something abt seeing the same dang plushie over and over!! It makes me feel like theres nothing else out there and its sooooo boring. I have a particular exhaustion for the turtles. God. Please stop making turtles.
Yeah I find it boring too but I’m one of those people who feels a compulsive need to stand out. Some people just like going with the trends. I have to agree that I’m also tired of seeing turtles which is unfortunate because I love turtles! I used to have a pet turtle.
Use a hot glue gun. Put the glue over taper so u won’t ruin your actual hook. I actually wrap with yarn then glue over that to make it thicker. I have severe carpal tunnel and it helps a bunch. Also cheap flexi rod curlers for a handle. Very easy and won’t mess up hooks.
@@ronnidesoto4774 great tips. Thank you!
I'm with you about everyone making the same patterns. That's why I make sure to bring different items to my markets. The market has been flooded by the same things and I want to offer unique items. I'm with you also about animal cheeks. I dislike the butt holes too. What animal has a hole shaped like a giant 'x'?
lol giant x holes. I’m not sure. Its not my thing but makes some people happy 🤷♀️
I’m glad you do unique patterns! Do you find they sell well for you? I saw some people on threads saying that only the tried and true patterns sell.
The giant X buttholes is a nod to Japanese animation, in which lots of animals have a cute little x bootyhole.
I understand why not everyone likes it, but there IS a reason!
@@Tfwcrochet I've only done two markets so far and, maybe because I'm in Canada (?) the unique patterns have done well. I do offer a few "tried and true" as well. I need to do more research before I can give you a definitive answer.
What I don't understand is the number of almost identical patterns that get published. How many bee patterns do we need?
@@lisapettit7403 yeah I hear you there. I try to be unique with my patterns but it is hard at this point!
You may not like butts, you may not like butt x's, but I think we can agree that butts with butt x's are cursed!
Just as we started talking about no-sew patterns, I was crocheting on an arm to my amigurumi for a pattern where it's expected you sew it... but I just find crocheting to be so much cleaner and faster (for me). When I realized you can crochet knitted or crocheted fabric together, that was such a revelation. I don't mind hand-sewing but the speed of crochet just makes me so much happier.
@@theyxaj I totally get that perspective. For some things it makes sense and is easier. And 100% butts with an x are cursed lol
Widen your follow base.
It seems like no matter who I follow only the “popular” crocheters show up in my feed and they all go through fads of making the same pattern
This is a great idea - I am also just starting out on TH-cam. Would you mind if I hop on this trend as well?
Have at it! And good luck on your channel!!
@@Tfwcrochet thank you 😊
I loved watching this! Do you mind if do this topic for my channel as well ❤
@@TheCrochetFairy22 go for it! I got the concept from Moonbae crochet :)
@@Tfwcrochet I will tag y'all both when I do it
15:30 you’re right about AI crochet patterns it’s just a damn scam that’s what it is. Quick easy buck to make
It’s so icky!!
I've never seen crochet butts 😂 I hope they don't start showing up on my feed haha
@@Alicia_1970 I feel like the trend may be on the way out actually. I was seeing them a lot on Instagram and Reddit for a while
I also prefer sew-heavy patterns over no-sew ones. I usually end up altering the limbs placement, which you can't change when it's a no-sew one.
Booty plushies are funny, but I don't care enough to make my own ones, just enjoying others'.
Been wanting some ergonomic handles too, and I've seen GraceFace's video and tried out 2 small pear-shaped beauty blenders pierced onto a hook, it's chonky and they work nice once you get used to it. You can also take it off and put on another bare metal hook. Recently I've been tempted to try out the Tulip Etimo Red hooks, they're so pretty but also so expensive 😅 But knowing myself, I'll get one eventually.
I’m dying to try the tulip hooks. I have heard others who love the clover hooks also like those. Let me know if you like them! I will probably end up buying one soon too lol