Don’t let your “hook hand” do all the work! Small movements with your yarn hand can really speed up your work. Also, the shape of your hook’s head can make a big difference in how quickly you can insert and pull up a loop. Look for one with a pointy edge along the top of the hook for inserting, but a softer or even an in-line hook for pulling up loops.
I started crocheting when I was 7. I just turned 60. I have been doing these for a long time. I am also a self taught knitter. Well it’s really in the genes. My Nonna (Italian grandma) made EXQUISITE dresses for my younger sister and I. She made Beautiful sweaters for all the men in the family. We still have sweaters she made for my twin 53 yr old brothers when they were 3. They still look brand new. She used top quality yarn living in Argentina. In all the years of knitting/crocheting I have yet to find the quality yarns she used. I hope you all find joy in your very special talent. ❤️❤️❤️
@@ranaamir-cl8kl Thank you. No one ever believes me when I tell them my age. My mom will be 82 this year and she looks like she is 60. My parents blessed me with good genes. GOD Bless you for being so sweet!❤️❤️❤️😘😘
"Don't fear the yarn barf." 😂 I saw a tip once that the commercial skeins have a hack for finding the easier way for center pull. Looking at the paper wrapping, it will either be on top (if upright) or pull from the right (if normal left-right). It's worked for me so far! Happy crocheting! 🥰
I am crocheting as I’m watching this, and as soon as you said hold your project and hands closer to your lap I did it and HOLY MOLY that takes so much tension off my shoulders and immediately made a difference. I love how you don’t only talk about speed in this video, but about staying healthy too!! Thank you!!
I’m the youngest crocheter in my family(at 11 years old) and I crochet so slow(I’ve also been crushing for 3 1/2 years.) so this video is very needed for a slow crocheters in every slow crocheter or someone who’s beginning crochet and wants to be fast at it Tony you’re just on time with things we love you.❤🎉
I'm so glad it's helpful. I was a terribly slow crocheter for a long time. Improving my posture and getting better tools made all the difference. I hope the video is helpful :-)
I'm a beginner crochet. I am a little slow because I can't wrap the yarn around my fingers or hand to control the tension. Is there a secret or technique
@@jinaking3376I can't do the usual tensioning by wrapping through the fingers because my joints are wobbly there, so I just run the yarn between my palm and the tip of my little finger where it curls onto the palm just in front of the crease at the edge if my palm. Then I push down or loosen according to what I need. At firstbI was slow but practice, practice, practice helped a lot! A little bit each day is better than a lot once a week!
Hang in there and keep crocheting! I learned when I was 9 and used to be slow. It took me about 10 years, honestly, to get pretty fast. Now I'm 58 and on the right project I can crochet like the wind. Don't focus on your speed, just keep crocheting. You'll get faster the more you do it.
I have an additional tip: get prism glasses (the ones advertised for lazy reading or tv watching while laying flat on ones back). It helps with stress on the neck because you can keep your head straight and not look down and put strain on the cervical spine. I am so glad I found those glasses my cervical spine has become too stressed and unstable recently, so I'm not allowed to look down and strain my neck like that any more and the glasses are a life saver!
Yes agreed! I got those when I was in 7th grade and reading away on books and I've been using them for the last 10 years constantly for everything, such a saver especially since my timetable got much more crowded, leaving no time for sports and having to pay attention to my posture. But, to be honest, I still don't dare myself to put them on in university when working on essays n stuff... One looks just so silly with them xD
@@sophiewiest1493 Monday I will be fitted for a neck brace and maybe get the cervical spine fused to the head a little further down the road then I will not have a choice anymore.. so I decided best get used to it and maybe help avoid the surgery for a little while at least.. I have managed to escape it for almost 15 years, first time I had to seek treatment for it was when I was 14 and my neck got so stiff to try and keep it from moving too much that I couldn’t move it anymore for months. So I kind of knew it would be coming and have been mentally prepared for this for years, and doing my physio therapy exercises everywhere even in public if I noticed my neck doing the straining and having obvious medical related tinted lenses for my glasses definitely helped to just put them on even in public. Like I have found that dealing with the mental stuff while you already have to use it is more difficult than to be prepared for it before hand, and when you can start slow with using it sometimes. Also for me less pain and/or health crashes are a great motivator. 😅
Yea, I was thinking about the reading glassen too. I have a pair that cover the lower part of the eyes and sight downward. That's practical while watching fx tv. Tanks for a Great chanel! I'm watching from Sweden 🇸🇪
Such an excellent tip! I bet they will help prevent the migraines I can get from too much crocheting caused by the neck strain! Thanks so awfully much.
For me personally, I find that I am able to speed up my stitching when I read through the entire pattern before I begin. That way, I know what to expect as I move from one section to another and can simply refresh myself and get right back to the stitches.
You know, I almost laughed when I first read this comment. But then I realized, that is what I did. I read through the pattern, then write it out completely in words so I understand it completely, no abbreviations, and row by row. That really helped. The first time I did this project, I constantly consulted the pattern. The second time, I only had to consult it a few times. I am on my third (probablhy final) throw now, and so far, I have had not to look at the pattern once, because I have done it enough my muscles know what to do.🧶
I was listening. I am a totaly blind person who is just randomly browsing TH-cam seeing if I can figure out the basics of crochet. Of course, I've asked some blind friends, too. But I listened, and one tip has already helped me--not in crocheting, I don't do that yet--but with my knitting! I made a conscious effort to sit straight and to keep my hands lower to my stomach and I already see improvement. Normally I hate knitting my first row after castring on. But just by focusing on that one thing, I am nearly done with a row that would normally take me up to an hour to do. Thank you!🧶
I have been crushing for about 50 years since I was 20 in 1970. OMG telling my age LOL. Anyway, I consider myself an expert crocheter in both yarn and thread. I can fix mistakes on anything that are found somewhere below several rows but refused to unravel. So, I learned how to repair and fix it by cutting the yarn, unravel several stitches only on the end that unravels, the other end won't, take enough that yarn tie in a weaver's knot, and it looks natural. Crochet your few repair stitches on the correct side, then tie off at the other end with the weaver's knot. The weaver's knot is almost invisible. I like watching tips because there's always something to learn no matter how much you may know. I knew all your tips except for the crochet pillow. I sit in a very stuffed, easy rocking chairs and sit the way you sit and crochet on my lap. I am going to buy one of those pillows. Here is an added tip or tips for you. I used the Quaker Old Fashion Whole Oats box, the small one, and the super large one. What I do is cut a hole in the top of the lid. Cover the hole around the edges with soft tape. Put your skein in there pull from the middle through the hole, and it works perfectly and usually never balls up and gets twisted in the end it stays put. I use the super box for the jumbo yarn. I also use the large plastic prezel container container that you can put your super jumbo yarn in there and do the same with the hole in the lid is to cut a hole in the lid and tape it as usual and it works great. There is also a super large pretzel container that you can get on walmart and probably other places and use that for your really oversized super jumbo yarn and do the same with the lid. These have worked great for me, and I make them up for other people friends to use, and they love those. Thank you for sharing. ❤❤❤❤
Great tips! Noticing that my hands are at my lap which is helping me breeze through my current project. Also memorized the simple lace repeat. My tip - train your household members not to interrupt you when counting stitches. Lol.
I trained them using a half and half spray bottle. Half vinegar, half water. They interrupt me, they get sprayed, smell like vinegar until they change their clothes, and they owe me a dollar fifty. They know not to interrupt me now :) (except for small children. They don’t owe me anything, and I don’t spray them. They don’t know any better yet. If you’re 10+ tho ima spray you cause come on, you’re older than ten years old. You know better than to interrupt me when I’m counting.)
I’m not the slowest crocheter, but I’m also not the fastest and that is completely fine. I love to enjoy my projects and taking the time really make them perfect to me. For me it’s all about the journey and not necessarily the destination. I love your video though ❤
I've been crocheting since I was 15. I'm now 53 and only this year have discovered how much a good light can speed up my work. I got a little LED light for the arm of the corner of the sofa I sit at nightly and it's made all the difference. The lighting I was using from my overhead room light was fine but the added brightness of the LED has helped immensely, especially when working with darker colours. And it was only $5 at my local cheap-O home store!
Be the tortoise. Slowing down, focusing on rhythm, relaxed body, and stopping interruptions results in more beautiful work without mistakes and leaves me feeling mentally refreshed. Triple win - rhythm leads to better productivty, lovelier results and I feel recharged.
I have the Hobbii pillow. It was a lifesaver when I was recovering from shoulder surgery. My surgeon cleared me to crochet if I used the pillow on day one.😊
I never thought it would have that much an impact, BUT: the material of your hook's grip actually can make all the difference. I have RSI in both hands and I can work more comfortably with metal hooks with wooden grips than any other grips. Also, regular breaks, especially in cooler months, and holding a warm cup of tea in both hands has been doing wonders for my crocheting speed. I usually take my fav mug, fill it with tea and slowly sip it, then get back to my current project.
Wow! I realized the other day that I was crocheting faster and feeling more comfortable after putting 2 squishmallows under my arms!! Good to know I was on the right path c:
I'm a fellow knife-gripper, and I definitely agree with everything you've said! Last year I made a beautiful dragon wing shawl for a friend using a combination of dc in blo and dc mesh stitch. Getting into a rhythm is super helpful. I will say, more complex stitches can be fast too if you can memorize the pattern, like I did with the blanket I crocheted for my baby earlier this year. Also, don't be afraid to limit the number of Big Projects you make for people for Christmas! I pick one friend every year for a larger project and just make smaller ones for others, or buy things. This year a bunch of my DnD peeps are getting dice bags of various configurations (which fact also led to my first pattern creation lol), since dice bags typically take 1-3 hours. The one friend I picked is getting many many many dice bags because he has many many many sets of dice.
I do both for some reason. Some hooks are just easier to hold pen style, others knife style. But since I made some hooks more ergonomic I hold them like a kinfe now.
@@MidniteSpectreI instinctively have the knife hold on my hook when I started learning. I didn't know there were other ways to hold it. It's been 5 months now since I started learning, I mainly do knife hold but I change to pencil hold when my fingers and wrist starts to feel weird. I tried to learn it cause my mom and aunts says I hold my hook weird. Seems like they didn't know that knife hold also exist XD they weren't exactly judging me seeing that I can work with it anyways. Also just found out that they crochet too when they were younger then quits, shared their stories after they saw me crocheting. After that I found my aunt's work in my closet, it's a very detailed skirt. She told me she made it even before my mom was born, she was in high school. The skirts is still wearable and have a nice color, it's hard to believe that it's more than 50 years XD Sorry for the rambles, just got a little excited lol
I’m a seasoned crocheter, but tips are always welcome! For me, crocheting with an in-line hook has made a HUGE difference in crochet speed and consistent tension. 😊
How long have you been crocheting? I'm kinda curious how many crocheters are beginners and experienced. I've been crocheting for 5 months now. Still a lot of things to learn!
What helps a lot for me is making sure I like the feel of the yarn I am using. I have a lot of sensory limitations and sometimes I just cannot work on a project for very long if the yarn material is uncomfortable in my hands. Through experience I have gotten better at figuring out how much twist i like, what types of fiber content I lean towards, etc. Feeling the yarn in the store isn't always the best indication of how it will feel as you work it up, so getting to know your preferences can always help.
Second that, especially with the sensory issues. i won't buy yarn online unless i'm already familiar with it because even if it's a fibre i prefer (strong preference for cotton), i may not be able to tolerate *that* specific yarn. 8(
@@angeliamoore6973 for thinner yarns you should try ones with a tighter twist so that the stitch definition is easier to see. I haven't gone smaller than weight 3 DK/'light' yarn, but with that size I used 100% cotton. It was a little hard to get a grasp on sometimes because I am not super used to cotton but with some time I got into the swing of the project. I have also used acrylic dk and that was much easier to keep a hold of. If the texture of yarns bother you though I recommend trying some blends. I cannot work with 100% wool without wanting to explode because it can be quite scratchy, but a 50/50 wool and acrylic mix is what I'm currently using and it works up like a dream. I also don't like 100% acrylic because it can feel squeaky, so when I use it I use a metal hook instead of my usual plastic and it helps the squeaky feeling. Over all it just boils down to figuring out which textures you don't like. If you want to try out a thinner yarn that is still easy to keep track of, I recommend lion brand 24/7 cotton. It is technically a weight 4 worsted/'medium' yarn but it is a thinner worsted than the many others I've used. It has a high twist and very good stitch definition, so it hopefully wont be a struggle to adjust, it is also slightly grippy/textured but gentle enough to not be a bother. Also! If you're really struggling you should take small steps in going down sizes. Adjusting can be a little tricky sometimes so giving yourself plenty of time to get used to the new feel should help a ton.
@@angeliamoore6973 if it's me you're asking - i'm sorry, i don't. i don't have trouble feeling crochet cotton. i just don't like the feel of acrylics or animal fibres (i'm allergic to lanolin, as well!).
Hands down, fully agree on the yarn bowl!!! I had been a center-pull only person for forever, but the discovery of the yarn bowl is THE thing that both made me faster and upped my enjoyment - maybe it's just how I work, but with center-pull, no matter the yarn, it gets so twisted up on itself that I literally would need to stop every 5 minutes to spin the skein by hand to un-twist it. Now I always pull from the outside in a yarn bowl and I've never regretted it.
Thank you. This was really well presented. I've been crocheting for 50+ years and one tip I never hear is ... crochet to music. I went through my music collection and found several tracks that "fit" my crochet style. Everything from techno and industrial metal to country and classical. Find your beat and crochet along. 😊
Just started crocheting this year, and your channel helped so much. Even though english isn't my first language, your tutorials are always easy to follow. You taught me everything from foundation (single) crochets to trusting the process and trying different yarns. Currently making a second montego shawl, bc my grandma liked the bamboo yarn so much I had to make her one for cristmas. I'm also attempting tunesian crochet and I wouldn't have found it without your channel. The only downside is, I've now watched through all your yarn snob reviews and have to wait for more.
Looks like I need to make a new Yarn Snob Review :-) Thanks so much for supporting the channel - it means the world to me. When I learned, there weren't a lot of resources, so I'm happy to be one of those resources for you.
Number 6 made me chuckle, I'm 61 and have been crocheting since I was 7 my grandma taught me. I loved sitting with her learning. Thank you for your informative videos and sharing your talents with us. Please keep sharing thank you!😊
I've been crocheting since i can remember. Tension has always been an isue for me. Its also one of my coping mechanism. I have peripheral neuropathy. While I enjoy both crochet and tunisian crochet, tunisian crochet is easier on my body. For beginners, please stay clear from very dark colors. The stitch definitions are hard to see. Use lighter color at the beginning of your crocheting journey. Once your mojo is going strong then slowly bring in the darket colors. The main take away is to have fun. Thank you, Toni, for introducing me this wonderful craft.
Toni you are the best. I’m an OGG crocheter (learned in 1964). This kind of video is another reason I’ve been a longtime subscriber. I love all of your reviews and any other content. 😊❤❤
Great tips! The only thing I would add is: Make sure you have good lighting. I'm older.....it's crucial for me. Thank you for all your wonderful videos and positive encouragement!
As I post this it was 6 hours ago that you posted this fantastic tip video and 1,200 people have already watched it! Girl you got us all pumped to crochet! I love your enthusiasm and willingness to share your growth as well by trying knitting and crocheting wearables! I’m devoted to all your videos! Keep it up! And Thanks!!!!
When doing a pattern such as a poncho - with several rows of consistent design - I found it helps if a place a safety pin at the end of a row, And start counting again there with how many rows I need to finish that project. That way i dont have to go back and count from the 1st row.
Love this.... as I sit and try to make several of the same piece to stock my upcoming craft booth. I have another tip -- for those doing something like I am right now... If the project has several stages and you are doing multiples (even if I'm doing socks, and there are two), I sometimes work multiple pieces in stages. For example, make the toe of both socks, then do the foot (both socks) then turn the heel, etc. I find that it speeds things up overall, because I don't have to 'change gears' to think about each separate step, I remember it much better and can stay 'in the groove' by doing the same step a few times instead of moving through the whole piece individually. I hope that makes sense! Love your work TL!
I just did that for beanies I'm making for migrant asylum seekers being bussed into my neighborhood. I made the rectangles and left them with a LONG tail. Later I seamed the side and cinched the top. Then I labeled gallon baggies using Sharpies with gender [in Spanish] and wash/dry care info, and stuffed the baggies with a hat.
If not on a time crunch, I find it helpful to have a couple projects going at once, to save on the wrist action. Different size hooks and different stitches offer me the ability to keep moving forward on both without the constant repitition. Sometimes I even break out the needles. Thank you for your tips, and good to see I all ready use some of them. Happy Crocheting
That's a good idea -- though I still have a tendency to concentrate on one project at a time, and worst of all, I get so lost in the flow that I don't take breaks when I should.
I actually just got my pillow and even with some minimal use, I’m enjoying the difference. Having it to rest my hands and project feels good. It’s been great for reading and video gaming too.
It was good to hear you tips. I have been doing all of them for decades. Why would you want to work your yarn from the outside in? With regards to Tip #4 - the knife-edge hold, I've learned to use my fingers to move the hook while stitching, so that I don't have to move my wrist so much. Tip #7 is an interesting one, using a pillow to hold your work. I totally agree that you need to sit straight, and lean back into the chair, relax your shoulders, and not have your work up close to your face. I have found using an empty tissue box (the square ones), with the lid cut and turned down inside the box and then taped into place with packaging tape works great. Using these empty tissue boxes, allows me to have several projects going and I don't have to move my yarn holder to each project when I wish to switch it up because I want a change in the color and/or stitch pattern I am working on by doing something different. My projects are kept in those inexpensive totes, containing the yarn holder (modified tissue box), any instructions, and yarn that is needed for my project and with the handles on them I can hang them on hooks that go over the top of the door, so they are out of the way and easy to get to.
You are an absolutely phenomenal teacher/speaker. Your descriptions are so clear and your voice is definitely an asset to learning with you. Do you offer any live classes anywhere? I'm in Florida and maybe we can make a trade for a week in the sunshine state in my guest room for a class with you! Seriously, I don't believe I could ever get tired of listening to you! Maybe you should run for president - you have my vote!
Made one of those per that pattern for the crochet pillow for a friend who had to give up crafts of all kinds due to pain. I was going to make one for me and have not had relief from pain to even start it yet. She loves it! And I found out that IT IS AMAZING!!!!! I still have the yarn, panty hose, and stuffing to make one for me and I can't wait! I tested hers out to check for firmness of the stuffing to suit. It helps with support and stays in place nicely so you can use it when reading or crafting, anytime you need support!
I’ve picked up crochet again as therapy for a partially paralysed hand after spinal surgery in July that also fused my neck so it can’t move or bend down. And because of this , I set up differently to most. I’m almost on my back while I crochet with pillows and wedges up under my arms. And I have to say that’s so much faster than sitting up! I did that yesterday in a chair while waiting for something and omg I was so much slower! Reclined covered in squishmallows and wedges for the win!
I have a goal for the coming year to level-up my crochet. I consider myself to be an intermediate stitcher. I am looking into Tunisian, mosaic, amigurumi, and garments. After watching a few of your videos, I already know that I'll be using them as a resource. Thank you so much!
I love, love, LOVE that you just reminded to use body mechanics IN MY CROCHETING!!! Like, whaaaat?!? I can't believe I didn't THINK about this! In school for massage therapy they DRILLED us about our posture, but I never would've thunk about how it affects me in my crocheting. God Bless you, girl, you just blew my. whole lid! Much love and respect!!!
EXCELLENT tips!!! I especially liked the fact that you addressed ergonomics. I am a health care professional who loves to crochet when time permits and I worry about carpal tunnel, arthritis and tendinitis. You gave us great tips to improve our posture while we craft. Kudos to you!!! Very forward thinking. Happy crafting 😊
I’ve been crocheting for only 3 years and always look forward to your fun videos and great tips. I’ve learned some great shortcuts from you…things I never would’ve thought of. Thanks Toni 👏🏾👏🏾
Just found your channel and already love your content so much! If you can't afford a store bought yarn bowl, as I could not, a washed out coffee can works just as well. That's what I use. I also put a hole in the lid of the can so I can feed the yarn through while keeping it closed and free from pet hair and the like.
I am using big plastic coffee canisters, that were well-washed, and I made different sized holes in around the body, and another hole in the top. I also use big oatmeal containers thoroughly cleaned out-(but don’t wash, they’re cardboard, a good clean damp sponge or paper-towel wipe-down is best) with a hole in the plastic cap. If I’m not using the cannisters and containers for a project, I store left-over yarns stacked inside them, and run a length of yarn from each through the top hole just a little so I can see what yarns are inside. The coffee canisters stack nicely (the oatmeal containers don’t but I painted them and they look better lined up on a shelf), and I painted those as well.
@@cfrandre8319 I never even thought to use the oatmeal containers, that's a great idea. I'm gonna have to try that! What did you use to put the holes in the body of the coffee containers?
Toni, I discovered you the other day. As I'm watching your video, I was AMAZED at how FAST you crocheted. And I'm thinking, I will NEVER be able to crochet like that! And then today, I see this video! And there might be hope for me yet! LOL Really good points! Thank you for all the work you put in your videos. They mean so much to people (especially me) who are self taught. I complain a lot about technology (being OLD SCHOOL), but I could never have learned to crochet without it and people like you. THANK YOU!
I always wound my yarn into balls, then a few years ago i discovered the yarn einder. Best purchase ever!! I wjnd every skein before starting, getting all the knots taken care of at the beginnjng. I then like to start with the end on the outside rather than the inside. I did that originallybut it collapses in as it gets lower, casuing tangles and just slowing things doen. Usijg the yarn off the outside of the cake means no collapse and when using only part of it, no rewinding. :)
Your videos are visually beautiful! Your glowing smiling face for starters...and just look how your sweater ties in with the colors of the "curtain" behind you. 💮💮
Thank you for the tips Toni! I have a general tip I'd like to share. I'm new to knitting. I was working on a Celtic Cable scarf for my husband when I started getting a strained muscle around my elbow. I had to stop all crocheting and knitting for about a week. When I started back up, I was still sore. I reached for one of those cushy stress balls - the kinds that are made of a really soft, but firm foam - and I started doing reps with it. I would squeeze the stress ball with my fingers, and then focus on my thumbs. A lot of the soreness went away. I started doing those exercises after knitting/crocheting for the night, and it really helps to stretch out and relax my crafting muscles. I can still overdo it, but at least using the stress ball for exercises helps me heal up faster.
0 seconds ago I could not find a yarn bowl that was to my liking and large enough. So I improvised. I to a basket in a size that I liked and made a liner for it. But at the top of the liner I sewed in loops several inches apart all around the basket. The liner helps the yarn ball unwind smoothly and the loops guide the yarn. This is great when I am working with several different colors.
I'm crafting away here thinking, I should could use some tips on posture and placement of hands. I seem to have tense shoulders and have to reach in what feels like an awkward position...Lo and behold it all your tips come flooding in at the 5 min mark. WOOOOOOO!
Thank you for all the great tips. I have been crocheting for 50 years now and I do all the tips you gave except for the sitting position. I am going to practice on that for sure. I found a real easy stitch and I made a long scarf in 1 day. The stitch is called the Crochet Sieve Stitch. Love your channel.
I love my Clover Amour hooks! And they make crocheting faster in an additional way. I first tried them when I was part of a CAL and the recommended yarn was constantly splitting over the hook. I found a post in the CAL's chat about other people having the same problem and someone recommended some brands of hook that would help. I was skeptical that a different hook would help (because it's the yarn's problem, right?) but I found a Clover Amour hook locally and decided to try it. I was AMAZED. I went from having to fuss with the splitting yarn every few stitches with the old hook to never having the yarn split at all with the Amour. I still do not understand how this magic happens, but now I have a whole set of Amour hooks and I couldn't be happier.
Thank you for all your tips. Even though I’m 74 I am a relatively new crocheter. I just cannot get over how fast you can crochet. The only one I have ever seen crochet faster is a little boy that I saw on TV. He talks while we crochets and goes 100 miles an hour. Thank you for your show, and thank you for the advice. Nevertoo old to learn I guess.
The posture - I don't say it was new for me, but the RIGHT posture and how important it is, is something that we should keep in mind for the longrun. 😊 Thank you for all these tips!
these videos seem to make me feel warmth and relaxed and a lot of it has to do with how you seem to be a very pleasant and comforting soul to be around and somehow i feel inspired to start crocheting after this video
Thank you for showing & explaining the tail pulling through the loop part. This is the 3rd video I watched & getting frustrated because it seemed so simple and I JUST couldn't figure it out.
Wow! First, you look great on camera! Your choice in background color & your lovely sweater well together. I use almost every technique you demonstrated. I’ve been crocheting for 49 years & I only think of one thing you could have added. I now use only Furls Crochet Hooks that have the ergonomic bottom & the hook itself is chrome. Using chrome has made me a faster Crocheter. Take care & keep putting out your high quality videos, Denise. 😊
Thank you for this video! I agree about the Clover hooks, but in the larger sizes, they are plastic and create some drag on the yarn, so for that, I have to go back to the regular Susan Bates hooks, I just found some in sizes 9, 10 and 11. I completely agree with you about choosing simpler stitches - fancy, complicated patterns an d stitches take a lot longer! Thanks for all you do!
That's true - I really wish the larger Clovers were metal as well, but I also switch to the Susan Bates for the larger sizes. Just need a metal Q hook now,
You deserve all the appreciation and support in the world! I really enjoy your videos, (I am a self taught, crocheter)& I brought them to the attention of my wife who now watches also. Keep up the good work 👍
I changed mine to the knife hold while watching your video! I have thumb tendon issues from a prior surgery and so far it is more comfortable. Paying attention to my seating and posture and sitting in a gaming chair has been helpful. I take frequent breaks while crocheting. I think its due to me getting bored but it helps prevent burn out.
I am a "seasoned" crocheter. I frequently do marathon sessions and discovered years ago that a regular sized pillow in my lap does wonders for fatigue in my arms and shoulders. I also switch out with a lap desk. It gives me a slightly different posture. I do have 2 damaged hands that also have arthritis and I find that crocheting results in less pain; I've been told that joints are naturally lubricated with movement. Ive recently bought a neck light. I'm surprised how much a good light lessens stress! Love your channel.
Great info. Love the crochet pillow one. I have back problems after surgeries & I believe the pillow will be a big benefit for me. Thanks for all the info.!
I started crocheting in 2014 when I quit smoking. I thought it would be great to help break the hand to mouth habit. I learned on you tube. I now crochet prayer shawls for a church, they must be at least 64x24 rectangular. I make at least 1 a week but have made up to 4 in a week. I have ppl tell me I crochet fast. I was on a night flight last week and the flight attendant stopped to tell me how fast I am. I have had ppl make jokes and say I crochet violently😂😂😂. I think I am fast because I am passionate about crocheting and 2 rows into a project I am already dreaming and planning the next one. Find what is comfortable for you. Love what you do. Happy hooking everyone 😎
Mt daughter bought me a peacock tensioner ring for Christmas last year. I hadn't knitted or crocheted in years but I was curious to try it. Love it (for crochet; it doesn't work for me for knitting because the ring goes on the left hand only and I yarn over with my right hand while knitting.) I've made two baby blankets, a sweater, and half another blanket since then.
Hello, just found you, in UK, thank you for all your tips, definitely buying a yarn ball winder. Hubby made me a stand (like your mug tree) on which I push an empty kitchen paper towel roll, as they are tough, through the center of my yarn ball, insert on the stand and is so easy to use as it turns freely while doing crochet. Also he has turned a few bowls so I fastened one of those spring paper clips to the edge, turned down one side to thread my yarn through the othe wire wing, which is great for cotton yarn balls. Best wishes from England and will be watching often. Hugs 💖
Self taught crocheter here & so glad for these tips! I’m so glad to see someone with a knife grip. It seems a majority of TH-camrs I watch are pencil grip. And im also a lefty! 😬
i just did a bunch of your sunrise coasters, and i found myself getting faster and faster! definitely a fantastic easy pattern, especially since i have no coasters! lol
I just started watching your videos after coming back from Rheinbeck. The friend that went there with me has been knitting for decades, and crocheting, spinning, weaving, tatting, etc. I'm an artist, but I've always wanted to explore the craft side. I was a disaster at knitting. So I took two crocheting classes there and seem to have caught on. At the class I learned how to make granny squares, and I'm still working on them. My biggest issue in going forward is that I bought a granny square kit and it doesn't have a diagram, just a written pattern. I'm very visual and there isn't a close up of the granny square that the woman on the picture is modeling.. I'm still struggling with how to read patterns. Your videos are wonderful and have been very helpful. I'm not giving up!!! The friend that I went up to Rheinbeck with doesn't live nearby, She's in NJ, I'm in NY. I don't drive, lol.
I'm the same way - super visual learner! Took me YEARS to be able to parse written patterns! Here's my advice - look up some granny square tutorials on youtube! There's crochet tutorials for pretty much everything you can think of on here, and you get a visual demonstration along with an explanation! That's how I learned primarily. Hope this helps!
While most of your tips are fantastic, I strongly disagree with one of them. Holding your work in your lap will not decrease the strain on your neck, it actually increases it because you are compressing the disc between the two vertebrae to look downward while creating a constant prolonged stretch to the muscles and tendons in the back of your neck and across your shoulders. I once did a graphgan that took 9 months and the constant compression on one edge of the disc caused it to herniate out one side of the vertebra putting me in the hospital for 19 days needing surgery and physical therapy. According to orthopedic doctors the best posture for anyone who does crafts regardless of what kind is to have your work either on a table or propped up by pillows to a level where you can see what your doing but basically holding your head level as if to look straight forward. This takes pressure off both the neck and the shoulders. If you need to put pillows on your armrests to raise your arms so that they are at your side with your elbow bent at 45 degree angle do so (this is the same posture they always taught in typing classes to avoid upper back strain.) After I recovered from my surgery my husband made me a table on wheels that is wide enough to roll over the top of recliner so that I can hold my work up and look forward and it has not only reduced shoulder and neck pain but made me faster.
@KayVCornett Thank you for sharing this. I noticed some pain in my shoulders and neck and I certainly don't need another herniated disc. I'm a 'lap crocheter'.
I was crocheting up close now I'm more relaxed and can feel how tense my shoulders were. Thank you! Started in Feb this year. 10 months on loving it more than anything. 😊
I bought a boppy pillow, and it's amazing! Not only is knitting and crocheting more comfortable, but it's also a great pillow for a very chonky kitty to sit on my lap. ❤
New to crochet?❤ Toni is inspiring! You picked a great instructor. I will add this, tho; keep crocheting. Nothing will move you forward like practice does. Use cheaper brands of yarn at first and make, make, make to give away those projects (goodwill it or give to a pet shelter). I started in March, and now it is November. It has taken me this long to feel like I can make a gift with nice yarn and give it to family. Prior to my holiday list, I cranked out small pet blankets, weird hats, and even small bowls. Not once did I try to use a pattern. I am working my way to that before year's end. Learn from your mistakes. They will show you the way to getting it right next time. Always make it fun!
First time viewer and I absolutely love you. Now english is far from my native language so forgive me. Some people talk talk talk and have very long intros. But not you. You are informative and right to the point I really appriciate that - thank you and Godd bles you.
Love your tips and I have to say I already use them all. A sweet fellow h00ker in our social media crochet group suggested the Boppy style pillow because I was having shoulder pain. Instead of buying one (way overpriced!) you can make one. I did and I’ve never looked back. I had no idea what a difference it would make. Thank you for all of your lovely videos. You are a sweetheart.
Toni, first I want to say this is a much needed crochetor. I've been crocheting since I was a young child decades ago and everthing you recommended is good. I developed tendonitis, crocheting to many large blankets. LOL😊 For me I believe the hook make the difference with the yarn. I switch hooks manufacturers depending on yarn and pattern. But in the end you have to find your happy place in crocheting. Thank you. 🤗
My speed-up tip: I've noticed (as with exercize), listening to uptempo music can speed up my crochet because my motions tend to sync with the rhythm. Think Pointer Sisters "I'm So Excited" and The Weather Girls "It's Raining Men" 🙂
We can all use tips! I finally got myself a yarn bowl & it helps me so much. My next buy will be a Valeri pillow. I have neck problems (have had 2 neck fusions) & I think this will help out a lot! Ty Toni! ❤
Having crocheted for over forty years I dont notice many of the issues with necks and shoulders. The irony is I've been told many many many times that I dont hold the hook correctly nor do I handle tension correctly. - as if there's one method???? Despite that my tension is spot on. My favorite stitch is SC DC in same chain, then skip one.repeat. It goes fast and without the gaps like a granny square. I've used this for blankets and sweaters and it looks amazing. Appreciate the tips. Love the channel.
I have found it's the type of yarn ! use that determines how fast I crochet as well as the size of the hook. I crochet faster with worsted weight and lighter weight yarns than I do with bulky and super bulky no matter the tension I put on the yarn. The larger hook sizes are a little more cumbersome for me as well. Yet, I love how fast the projects with bulky and super bulky weight yarn make up. It all depends on what project I'm working on as I customize a lot of the patterns I work with. Love your channel, Toni!! It has helped me improve my crocheting and given me the confidence I need to up my game.
Toni, you're a queen! I lovee love love your tips, patterns, reviews, content, and simply the way you bring me joy!! Would you share a gift list or suggestions for gifts for the crocheting friends in your life?
I have back problems and have found it so much better to sit at my desk or table where i can have my arms on the hard surface it helps to relieve the pain a lot and easier to get up when I need to stretch out my muscles . I do this about every 45 minutes to give everything a break .
I’m a beginner and this video was full of tips I will use to help me become more efficient when crocheting. Thank you for including the types of stitches that work up faster too!
Thank you so much for these tips. They really helped and I shared your video with a friend who after crocheting for long periods of time has shoulder pain. Hopefully she will follow along and it will help her also. God Bless and happy crocheting! ❤
Hey I just found your channel and wanted to say I love your personality and charm you got me completely drawn into the video right form the begging which says a lot considering I find it really hard to watch videos about crochet stuff as most people just talk too much but you were super fun to watch as well as super helpful!
![What to Crochet with One Skein [65 PROJECTS YOU'LL *ACTUALLY* WANT TO MAKE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/y-NmgbCBXcI/mqdefault.jpg)
![What to Crochet with One Skein [65 PROJECTS YOU'LL *ACTUALLY* WANT TO MAKE]](/img/tr.png)
![25+ CROCHET HACKS FOR BEGINNERS [Pro-Tips from a Crocheter with 20 Years Experience]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/oDHqT_rYMlM/mqdefault.jpg)
Don’t let your “hook hand” do all the work! Small movements with your yarn hand can really speed up your work. Also, the shape of your hook’s head can make a big difference in how quickly you can insert and pull up a loop. Look for one with a pointy edge along the top of the hook for inserting, but a softer or even an in-line hook for pulling up loops.
I’ve been crocheting for a month now and because of these tips i finished a top in 2 hours instead of 8 and i’m really proud of my progress!
Wow this is amazing!
Our profile pictures are almost the same lol! The only difference is mine is Alligator loki
TWO HOURS?
That's so amazing, good luck on your crochet journey
o@@Court-And-Crime-With-Tia
I started crocheting when I was 7. I just turned 60. I have been doing these for a long time. I am also a self taught knitter. Well it’s really in the genes. My Nonna (Italian grandma) made EXQUISITE dresses for my younger sister and I. She made Beautiful sweaters for all the men in the family. We still have sweaters she made for my twin 53 yr old brothers when they were 3. They still look brand new. She used top quality yarn living in Argentina. In all the years of knitting/crocheting I have yet to find the quality yarns she used. I hope you all find joy in your very special talent. ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you! And, love your story!
girl u look 20 years younger , damn
@@ranaamir-cl8kl Thank you. No one ever believes me when I tell them my age. My mom will be 82 this year and she looks like she is 60. My parents blessed me with good genes. GOD Bless you for being so sweet!❤️❤️❤️😘😘
It’s not just the yarn, but the careful washing of the garment too. I am using some super wash merino wool and am so annoyed at the knots in the yard.
Most awesome story. Would love to see some of her work.
"Don't fear the yarn barf." 😂 I saw a tip once that the commercial skeins have a hack for finding the easier way for center pull. Looking at the paper wrapping, it will either be on top (if upright) or pull from the right (if normal left-right). It's worked for me so far! Happy crocheting! 🥰
I've had no luck using the hacks to get the center pull - I always end up with a little yar barf lol
I am using Big Twist and the center is coming from the left. Just saying 🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️ It was already out and easy to pull.
@@teresab126 good to know! So it definitely doesn't work on every skein. And here I was so hopeful 😅
sometimes i even think i find the pull and it’s the outside yarn pulled through the center to keep it from unraveling
Coton will always be slower to be crocheted than wool. Wool is always easier to make it fastly
I am crocheting as I’m watching this, and as soon as you said hold your project and hands closer to your lap I did it and HOLY MOLY that takes so much tension off my shoulders and immediately made a difference. I love how you don’t only talk about speed in this video, but about staying healthy too!! Thank you!!
Yayyy! Instantly better :-) I always have to remind myself as well. Happy stitching!
I was doing the same!! 😅
It's so important to stop muscle shortening in your arms tio
Me too!!
I’m the youngest crocheter in my family(at 11 years old) and I crochet so slow(I’ve also been crushing for 3 1/2 years.) so this video is very needed for a slow crocheters in every slow crocheter or someone who’s beginning crochet and wants to be fast at it Tony you’re just on time with things we love you.❤🎉
Awesome! I’m teaching my 8 year old daughter and we are working on tension tips and where to put the hook when starting.
I'm so glad it's helpful. I was a terribly slow crocheter for a long time. Improving my posture and getting better tools made all the difference. I hope the video is helpful :-)
I'm a beginner crochet. I am a little slow because I can't wrap the yarn around my fingers or hand to control the tension. Is there a secret or technique
@@jinaking3376I can't do the usual tensioning by wrapping through the fingers because my joints are wobbly there, so I just run the yarn between my palm and the tip of my little finger where it curls onto the palm just in front of the crease at the edge if my palm. Then I push down or loosen according to what I need.
At firstbI was slow but practice, practice, practice helped a lot! A little bit each day is better than a lot once a week!
Hang in there and keep crocheting! I learned when I was 9 and used to be slow. It took me about 10 years, honestly, to get pretty fast. Now I'm 58 and on the right project I can crochet like the wind. Don't focus on your speed, just keep crocheting. You'll get faster the more you do it.
I have an additional tip:
get prism glasses (the ones advertised for lazy reading or tv watching while laying flat on ones back). It helps with stress on the neck because you can keep your head straight and not look down and put strain on the cervical spine.
I am so glad I found those glasses my cervical spine has become too stressed and unstable recently, so I'm not allowed to look down and strain my neck like that any more and the glasses are a life saver!
Ahhhh great tip! I saw these some time ago, advertised to crocheters. I haven't tried them yet, though.
Yes agreed! I got those when I was in 7th grade and reading away on books and I've been using them for the last 10 years constantly for everything, such a saver especially since my timetable got much more crowded, leaving no time for sports and having to pay attention to my posture. But, to be honest, I still don't dare myself to put them on in university when working on essays n stuff... One looks just so silly with them xD
@@sophiewiest1493 Monday I will be fitted for a neck brace and maybe get the cervical spine fused to the head a little further down the road then I will not have a choice anymore.. so I decided best get used to it and maybe help avoid the surgery for a little while at least..
I have managed to escape it for almost 15 years, first time I had to seek treatment for it was when I was 14 and my neck got so stiff to try and keep it from moving too much that I couldn’t move it anymore for months.
So I kind of knew it would be coming and have been mentally prepared for this for years, and doing my physio therapy exercises everywhere even in public if I noticed my neck doing the straining and having obvious medical related tinted lenses for my glasses definitely helped to just put them on even in public.
Like I have found that dealing with the mental stuff while you already have to use it is more difficult than to be prepared for it before hand, and when you can start slow with using it sometimes. Also for me less pain and/or health crashes are a great motivator. 😅
Yea, I was thinking about the reading glassen too. I have a pair that cover the lower part of the eyes and sight downward. That's practical while watching fx tv.
Tanks for a Great chanel! I'm watching from Sweden 🇸🇪
Such an excellent tip! I bet they will help prevent the migraines I can get from too much crocheting caused by the neck strain! Thanks so awfully much.
For me personally, I find that I am able to speed up my stitching when I read through the entire pattern before I begin. That way, I know what to expect as I move from one section to another and can simply refresh myself and get right back to the stitches.
I do this too at times... If I remember😅😅😅
You know, I almost laughed when I first read this comment. But then I realized, that is what I did. I read through the pattern, then write it out completely in words so I understand it completely, no abbreviations, and row by row. That really helped. The first time I did this project, I constantly consulted the pattern. The second time, I only had to consult it a few times. I am on my third (probablhy final) throw now, and so far, I have had not to look at the pattern once, because I have done it enough my muscles know what to do.🧶
I was listening. I am a totaly blind person who is just randomly browsing TH-cam seeing if I can figure out the basics of crochet. Of course, I've asked some blind friends, too. But I listened, and one tip has already helped me--not in crocheting, I don't do that yet--but with my knitting! I made a conscious effort to sit straight and to keep my hands lower to my stomach and I already see improvement. Normally I hate knitting my first row after castring on. But just by focusing on that one thing, I am nearly done with a row that would normally take me up to an hour to do. Thank you!🧶
Wow! That’s amazing!! Keep trying, you will impress yourself if you keep at it!
Good job!!!❤
I have been crushing for about 50 years since I was 20 in 1970. OMG telling my age
LOL. Anyway, I consider myself an expert crocheter in both yarn and thread. I can fix mistakes on anything that are found somewhere below several rows but refused to unravel. So, I learned how to repair and fix it by cutting the yarn, unravel several stitches only on the end that unravels, the other end won't, take enough that yarn tie in a weaver's knot, and it looks natural. Crochet your few repair stitches on the correct side, then tie off at the other end with the weaver's knot. The weaver's knot is almost invisible. I like watching tips because there's always something to learn no matter how much you may know. I knew all your tips except for the crochet pillow. I sit in a very stuffed, easy rocking chairs and sit the way you sit and crochet on my lap. I am going to buy one of those pillows.
Here is an added tip or tips for you. I used the Quaker Old Fashion Whole Oats box, the small one, and the super large one. What I do is cut a hole in the top of the lid. Cover the hole around the edges with soft tape. Put your skein in there pull from the middle through the hole, and it works perfectly and usually never balls up and gets twisted in the end it stays put. I use the super box for the jumbo yarn. I also use the large plastic prezel container container that you can put your super jumbo yarn in there and do the same with the hole in the lid is to cut a hole in the lid and tape it as usual and it works great. There is also a super large pretzel container that you can get on walmart and probably other places and use that for your really oversized super jumbo yarn and do the same with the lid. These have worked great for me, and I make them up for other people friends to use, and they love those.
Thank you for sharing. ❤❤❤❤
Great tips! Noticing that my hands are at my lap which is helping me breeze through my current project. Also memorized the simple lace repeat.
My tip - train your household members not to interrupt you when counting stitches. Lol.
Ha! Good luck with THAT! 😐
I trained them using a half and half spray bottle. Half vinegar, half water. They interrupt me, they get sprayed, smell like vinegar until they change their clothes, and they owe me a dollar fifty. They know not to interrupt me now :) (except for small children. They don’t owe me anything, and I don’t spray them. They don’t know any better yet. If you’re 10+ tho ima spray you cause come on, you’re older than ten years old. You know better than to interrupt me when I’m counting.)
I give a growl with THE LOOK. Always works for me. 😉@@nuvoclassic
@@JazzThatCollie😂😂😂 you just made my week!!!! Many thanks.
@@valeriehowden471 no problem. Friends thought it was funny too. And then they got sprayed too. I warned them 🤷♀️😂
I’m not the slowest crocheter, but I’m also not the fastest and that is completely fine. I love to enjoy my projects and taking the time really make them perfect to me. For me it’s all about the journey and not necessarily the destination. I love your video though ❤
I've been crocheting since I was 15. I'm now 53 and only this year have discovered how much a good light can speed up my work. I got a little LED light for the arm of the corner of the sofa I sit at nightly and it's made all the difference. The lighting I was using from my overhead room light was fine but the added brightness of the LED has helped immensely, especially when working with darker colours. And it was only $5 at my local cheap-O home store!
Be the tortoise. Slowing down, focusing on rhythm, relaxed body, and stopping interruptions results in more beautiful work without mistakes and leaves me feeling mentally refreshed. Triple win - rhythm leads to better productivty, lovelier results and I feel recharged.
I have the Hobbii pillow. It was a lifesaver when I was recovering from shoulder surgery. My surgeon cleared me to crochet if I used the pillow on day one.😊
So smart! Glad you didn't have to take too much down time from crocheting :-)
I made one from a pattern for a neck pillow with large yarn and stuffed it with polyfill from a pillow.
I never thought it would have that much an impact, BUT: the material of your hook's grip actually can make all the difference. I have RSI in both hands and I can work more comfortably with metal hooks with wooden grips than any other grips. Also, regular breaks, especially in cooler months, and holding a warm cup of tea in both hands has been doing wonders for my crocheting speed. I usually take my fav mug, fill it with tea and slowly sip it, then get back to my current project.
That hook material changes so much! The metal helps me get in the groove, too.
Wow! I realized the other day that I was crocheting faster and feeling more comfortable after putting 2 squishmallows under my arms!!
Good to know I was on the right path c:
I'm a fellow knife-gripper, and I definitely agree with everything you've said! Last year I made a beautiful dragon wing shawl for a friend using a combination of dc in blo and dc mesh stitch. Getting into a rhythm is super helpful. I will say, more complex stitches can be fast too if you can memorize the pattern, like I did with the blanket I crocheted for my baby earlier this year.
Also, don't be afraid to limit the number of Big Projects you make for people for Christmas! I pick one friend every year for a larger project and just make smaller ones for others, or buy things. This year a bunch of my DnD peeps are getting dice bags of various configurations (which fact also led to my first pattern creation lol), since dice bags typically take 1-3 hours. The one friend I picked is getting many many many dice bags because he has many many many sets of dice.
Love the advice of limiting those larger projects - for your hand health and your sanity lol
Please drop the pattern link (if you have)? Love this dice bag idea and would love to support you.
I am also a fellow "knifer".
I do both for some reason. Some hooks are just easier to hold pen style, others knife style. But since I made some hooks more ergonomic I hold them like a kinfe now.
@@MidniteSpectreI instinctively have the knife hold on my hook when I started learning. I didn't know there were other ways to hold it.
It's been 5 months now since I started learning, I mainly do knife hold but I change to pencil hold when my fingers and wrist starts to feel weird.
I tried to learn it cause my mom and aunts says I hold my hook weird. Seems like they didn't know that knife hold also exist XD they weren't exactly judging me seeing that I can work with it anyways. Also just found out that they crochet too when they were younger then quits, shared their stories after they saw me crocheting.
After that I found my aunt's work in my closet, it's a very detailed skirt. She told me she made it even before my mom was born, she was in high school. The skirts is still wearable and have a nice color, it's hard to believe that it's more than 50 years XD
Sorry for the rambles, just got a little excited lol
I’m a seasoned crocheter, but tips are always welcome! For me, crocheting with an in-line hook has made a HUGE difference in crochet speed and consistent tension. 😊
I just posted my hook preference!! Love inline and will not switch back
How long have you been crocheting? I'm kinda curious how many crocheters are beginners and experienced.
I've been crocheting for 5 months now. Still a lot of things to learn!
@@kristinegangman7756 I am an old woman. I started crocheting when I was 10 or 12, so 50+ years.
What helps a lot for me is making sure I like the feel of the yarn I am using. I have a lot of sensory limitations and sometimes I just cannot work on a project for very long if the yarn material is uncomfortable in my hands. Through experience I have gotten better at figuring out how much twist i like, what types of fiber content I lean towards, etc. Feeling the yarn in the store isn't always the best indication of how it will feel as you work it up, so getting to know your preferences can always help.
Second that, especially with the sensory issues. i won't buy yarn online unless i'm already familiar with it because even if it's a fibre i prefer (strong preference for cotton), i may not be able to tolerate *that* specific yarn. 8(
Do you have yarns that are easier to feel that you could recommend? I am using larger diameter yarns because I can't feel thin yarn at all
@@angeliamoore6973 for thinner yarns you should try ones with a tighter twist so that the stitch definition is easier to see. I haven't gone smaller than weight 3 DK/'light' yarn, but with that size I used 100% cotton. It was a little hard to get a grasp on sometimes because I am not super used to cotton but with some time I got into the swing of the project. I have also used acrylic dk and that was much easier to keep a hold of.
If the texture of yarns bother you though I recommend trying some blends. I cannot work with 100% wool without wanting to explode because it can be quite scratchy, but a 50/50 wool and acrylic mix is what I'm currently using and it works up like a dream. I also don't like 100% acrylic because it can feel squeaky, so when I use it I use a metal hook instead of my usual plastic and it helps the squeaky feeling.
Over all it just boils down to figuring out which textures you don't like. If you want to try out a thinner yarn that is still easy to keep track of, I recommend lion brand 24/7 cotton. It is technically a weight 4 worsted/'medium' yarn but it is a thinner worsted than the many others I've used. It has a high twist and very good stitch definition, so it hopefully wont be a struggle to adjust, it is also slightly grippy/textured but gentle enough to not be a bother.
Also! If you're really struggling you should take small steps in going down sizes. Adjusting can be a little tricky sometimes so giving yourself plenty of time to get used to the new feel should help a ton.
@@angeliamoore6973 if it's me you're asking - i'm sorry, i don't. i don't have trouble feeling crochet cotton. i just don't like the feel of acrylics or animal fibres (i'm allergic to lanolin, as well!).
Hands down, fully agree on the yarn bowl!!! I had been a center-pull only person for forever, but the discovery of the yarn bowl is THE thing that both made me faster and upped my enjoyment - maybe it's just how I work, but with center-pull, no matter the yarn, it gets so twisted up on itself that I literally would need to stop every 5 minutes to spin the skein by hand to un-twist it. Now I always pull from the outside in a yarn bowl and I've never regretted it.
Thank you. This was really well presented. I've been crocheting for 50+ years and one tip I never hear is ... crochet to music. I went through my music collection and found several tracks that "fit" my crochet style. Everything from techno and industrial metal to country and classical. Find your beat and crochet along. 😊
I like how you are so vibrant and positive. You make my crochet day.
Just started crocheting this year, and your channel helped so much. Even though english isn't my first language, your tutorials are always easy to follow. You taught me everything from foundation (single) crochets to trusting the process and trying different yarns. Currently making a second montego shawl, bc my grandma liked the bamboo yarn so much I had to make her one for cristmas. I'm also attempting tunesian crochet and I wouldn't have found it without your channel. The only downside is, I've now watched through all your yarn snob reviews and have to wait for more.
Looks like I need to make a new Yarn Snob Review :-) Thanks so much for supporting the channel - it means the world to me. When I learned, there weren't a lot of resources, so I'm happy to be one of those resources for you.
Number 6 made me chuckle, I'm 61 and have been crocheting since I was 7 my grandma taught me. I loved sitting with her learning. Thank you for your informative videos and sharing your talents with us. Please keep sharing thank you!😊
I've been crocheting since i can remember. Tension has always been an isue for me. Its also one of my coping mechanism.
I have peripheral neuropathy.
While I enjoy both crochet and tunisian crochet, tunisian crochet is easier on my body.
For beginners, please stay clear from very dark colors. The stitch definitions are hard to see. Use lighter color at the beginning of your crocheting journey. Once your mojo is going strong then slowly bring in the darket colors. The main take away is to have fun.
Thank you, Toni, for introducing me this wonderful craft.
So true about posture. I sat on my bed with legs extended while making a whole blanket. I wound up with a severe case of sciatica. Don’t do this.
Oh boy! I can imagine that was pretty rough on your back. Thankfully, we only need to learn a lesson like that one time 🙂
Oh my!
Toni you are the best. I’m an OGG crocheter (learned in 1964). This kind of video is another reason I’ve been a longtime subscriber. I love all of your reviews and any other content. 😊❤❤
Great tips! The only thing I would add is: Make sure you have good lighting. I'm older.....it's crucial for me. Thank you for all your wonderful videos and positive encouragement!
I also commented on this. Good lighting has made all the difference for me as I have aged.
As I post this it was 6 hours ago that you posted this fantastic tip video and 1,200 people have already watched it! Girl you got us all pumped to crochet! I love your enthusiasm and willingness to share your growth as well by trying knitting and crocheting wearables! I’m devoted to all your videos! Keep it up! And Thanks!!!!
Hi, I was watching Juan the Yarn Addict, and he shouted out your channel, so here I am 😉
oh woooow! So cool. I'll have to go check him out,
When doing a pattern such as a poncho - with several rows of consistent design - I found it helps if a place a safety pin at the end of a row,
And start counting again there with how many rows I need to finish that project. That way i dont have to go back and count from the 1st row.
Love this.... as I sit and try to make several of the same piece to stock my upcoming craft booth. I have another tip -- for those doing something like I am right now... If the project has several stages and you are doing multiples (even if I'm doing socks, and there are two), I sometimes work multiple pieces in stages. For example, make the toe of both socks, then do the foot (both socks) then turn the heel, etc. I find that it speeds things up overall, because I don't have to 'change gears' to think about each separate step, I remember it much better and can stay 'in the groove' by doing the same step a few times instead of moving through the whole piece individually. I hope that makes sense! Love your work TL!
I just did that for beanies I'm making for migrant asylum seekers being bussed into my neighborhood. I made the rectangles and left them with a LONG tail. Later I seamed the side and cinched the top. Then I labeled gallon baggies using Sharpies with gender [in Spanish] and wash/dry care info, and stuffed the baggies with a hat.
If not on a time crunch, I find it helpful to have a couple projects going at once, to save on the wrist action. Different size hooks and different stitches offer me the ability to keep moving forward on both without the constant repitition. Sometimes I even break out the needles. Thank you for your tips, and good to see I all ready use some of them. Happy Crocheting
That's a good idea -- though I still have a tendency to concentrate on one project at a time, and worst of all, I get so lost in the flow that I don't take breaks when I should.
I actually just got my pillow and even with some minimal use, I’m enjoying the difference. Having it to rest my hands and project feels good. It’s been great for reading and video gaming too.
It was good to hear you tips. I have been doing all of them for decades. Why would you want to work your yarn from the outside in?
With regards to Tip #4 - the knife-edge hold, I've learned to use my fingers to move the hook while stitching, so that I don't have to move my wrist so much.
Tip #7 is an interesting one, using a pillow to hold your work.
I totally agree that you need to sit straight, and lean back into the chair, relax your shoulders, and not have your work up close to your face.
I have found using an empty tissue box (the square ones), with the lid cut and turned down inside the box and then taped into place with packaging tape works great. Using these empty tissue boxes, allows me to have several projects going and I don't have to move my yarn holder to each project when I wish to switch it up because I want a change in the color and/or stitch pattern I am working on by doing something different.
My projects are kept in those inexpensive totes, containing the yarn holder (modified tissue box), any instructions, and yarn that is needed for my project and with the handles on them I can hang them on hooks that go over the top of the door, so they are out of the way and easy to get to.
You are an absolutely phenomenal teacher/speaker. Your descriptions are so clear and your voice is definitely an asset to learning with you. Do you offer any live classes anywhere? I'm in Florida and maybe we can make a trade for a week in the sunshine state in my guest room for a class with you! Seriously, I don't believe I could ever get tired of listening to you! Maybe you should run for president - you have my vote!
Made one of those per that pattern for the crochet pillow for a friend who had to give up crafts of all kinds due to pain. I was going to make one for me and have not had relief from pain to even start it yet. She loves it! And I found out that IT IS AMAZING!!!!! I still have the yarn, panty hose, and stuffing to make one for me and I can't wait! I tested hers out to check for firmness of the stuffing to suit. It helps with support and stays in place nicely so you can use it when reading or crafting, anytime you need support!
I’ve picked up crochet again as therapy for a partially paralysed hand after spinal surgery in July that also fused my neck so it can’t move or bend down. And because of this , I set up differently to most. I’m almost on my back while I crochet with pillows and wedges up under my arms. And I have to say that’s so much faster than sitting up! I did that yesterday in a chair while waiting for something and omg I was so much slower! Reclined covered in squishmallows and wedges for the win!
I have a goal for the coming year to level-up my crochet. I consider myself to be an intermediate stitcher. I am looking into Tunisian, mosaic, amigurumi, and garments. After watching a few of your videos, I already know that I'll be using them as a resource. Thank you so much!
I love, love, LOVE that you just reminded to use body mechanics IN MY CROCHETING!!! Like, whaaaat?!? I can't believe I didn't THINK about this! In school for massage therapy they DRILLED us about our posture, but I never would've thunk about how it affects me in my crocheting. God Bless you, girl, you just blew my. whole lid! Much love and respect!!!
EXCELLENT tips!!! I especially liked the fact that you addressed ergonomics. I am a health care professional who loves to crochet when time permits and I worry about carpal tunnel, arthritis and tendinitis. You gave us great tips to improve our posture while we craft. Kudos to you!!! Very forward thinking. Happy crafting 😊
I’ve been crocheting for only 3 years and always look forward to your fun videos and great tips. I’ve learned some great shortcuts from you…things I never would’ve thought of. Thanks Toni 👏🏾👏🏾
Thanks for your tips. I’m a beginner so I feel like a crochet. Slowly, I like your positive attitude ! 😁😌
Just found your channel and already love your content so much! If you can't afford a store bought yarn bowl, as I could not, a washed out coffee can works just as well. That's what I use. I also put a hole in the lid of the can so I can feed the yarn through while keeping it closed and free from pet hair and the like.
I am using big plastic coffee canisters, that were well-washed, and I made different sized holes in around the body, and another hole in the top. I also use big oatmeal containers thoroughly cleaned out-(but don’t wash, they’re cardboard, a good clean damp sponge or paper-towel wipe-down is best) with a hole in the plastic cap. If I’m not using the cannisters and containers for a project, I store left-over yarns stacked inside them, and run a length of yarn from each through the top hole just a little so I can see what yarns are inside. The coffee canisters stack nicely (the oatmeal containers don’t but I painted them and they look better lined up on a shelf), and I painted those as well.
@@cfrandre8319 I never even thought to use the oatmeal containers, that's a great idea. I'm gonna have to try that! What did you use to put the holes in the body of the coffee containers?
Your tips make sense. I have been crocheting for about 43 years and I love it.
Toni, I discovered you the other day. As I'm watching your video, I was AMAZED at how FAST you crocheted. And I'm thinking, I will NEVER be able to crochet like that! And then today, I see this video! And there might be hope for me yet! LOL Really good points! Thank you for all the work you put in your videos. They mean so much to people (especially me) who are self taught. I complain a lot about technology (being OLD SCHOOL), but I could never have learned to crochet without it and people like you. THANK YOU!
I always wound my yarn into balls, then a few years ago i discovered the yarn einder. Best purchase ever!! I wjnd every skein before starting, getting all the knots taken care of at the beginnjng. I then like to start with the end on the outside rather than the inside. I did that originallybut it collapses in as it gets lower, casuing tangles and just slowing things doen. Usijg the yarn off the outside of the cake means no collapse and when using only part of it, no rewinding. :)
Your videos are visually beautiful! Your glowing smiling face for starters...and just look how your sweater ties in with the colors of the "curtain" behind you. 💮💮
You’re the Queen of Crochet. I really enjoy your videos.
Thank you for the tips Toni! I have a general tip I'd like to share.
I'm new to knitting. I was working on a Celtic Cable scarf for my husband when I started getting a strained muscle around my elbow. I had to stop all crocheting and knitting for about a week. When I started back up, I was still sore. I reached for one of those cushy stress balls - the kinds that are made of a really soft, but firm foam - and I started doing reps with it. I would squeeze the stress ball with my fingers, and then focus on my thumbs. A lot of the soreness went away.
I started doing those exercises after knitting/crocheting for the night, and it really helps to stretch out and relax my crafting muscles. I can still overdo it, but at least using the stress ball for exercises helps me heal up faster.
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I could not find a yarn bowl that was to my liking and large enough. So I improvised. I to a basket in a size that I liked and made a liner for it. But at the top of the liner I sewed in loops several inches apart all around the basket. The liner helps the yarn ball unwind smoothly and the loops guide the yarn. This is great when I am working with several different colors.
Thanks lady friend! I noticed I was bringing the yarn up to close to my face and not my lap. My bicep was feeling the strain. This helped!!
I'm crafting away here thinking, I should could use some tips on posture and placement of hands. I seem to have tense shoulders and have to reach in what feels like an awkward position...Lo and behold it all your tips come flooding in at the 5 min mark. WOOOOOOO!
Thank you for all the great tips. I have been crocheting for 50 years now and I do all the tips you gave except for the sitting position. I am going to practice on that for sure. I found a real easy stitch and I made a long scarf in 1 day. The stitch is called the Crochet Sieve Stitch. Love your channel.
I love my Clover Amour hooks! And they make crocheting faster in an additional way.
I first tried them when I was part of a CAL and the recommended yarn was constantly splitting over the hook. I found a post in the CAL's chat about other people having the same problem and someone recommended some brands of hook that would help. I was skeptical that a different hook would help (because it's the yarn's problem, right?) but I found a Clover Amour hook locally and decided to try it. I was AMAZED. I went from having to fuss with the splitting yarn every few stitches with the old hook to never having the yarn split at all with the Amour.
I still do not understand how this magic happens, but now I have a whole set of Amour hooks and I couldn't be happier.
Thank you for all your tips. Even though I’m 74 I am a relatively new crocheter. I just cannot get over how fast you can crochet. The only one I have ever seen crochet faster is a little boy that I saw on TV. He talks while we crochets and goes 100 miles an hour. Thank you for your show, and thank you for the advice. Nevertoo old to learn I guess.
The posture - I don't say it was new for me, but the RIGHT posture and how important it is, is something that we should keep in mind for the longrun. 😊 Thank you for all these tips!
Thanks! You're such a joyful person. I love listening to you!
these videos seem to make me feel warmth and relaxed and a lot of it has to do with how you seem to be a very pleasant and comforting soul to be around and somehow i feel inspired to start crocheting after this video
Thank you for showing & explaining the tail pulling through the loop part. This is the 3rd video I watched & getting frustrated because it seemed so simple and I JUST couldn't figure it out.
Wow! First, you look great on camera! Your choice in background color & your lovely sweater well together. I use almost every technique you demonstrated. I’ve been crocheting for 49 years & I only think of one thing you could have added. I now use only Furls Crochet Hooks that have the ergonomic bottom & the hook itself is chrome. Using chrome has made me a faster Crocheter.
Take care & keep putting out your high quality videos,
Denise. 😊
Thank you for this video! I agree about the Clover hooks, but in the larger sizes, they are plastic and create some drag on the yarn, so for that, I have to go back to the regular Susan Bates hooks, I just found some in sizes 9, 10 and 11. I completely agree with you about choosing simpler stitches - fancy, complicated patterns an d stitches take a lot longer! Thanks for all you do!
That's true - I really wish the larger Clovers were metal as well, but I also switch to the Susan Bates for the larger sizes. Just need a metal Q hook now,
This is a great video to get tips im a new crocheter my grandma used to be advanced crocheter so I am crocheting so I can become advanced crocheter.
You deserve all the appreciation and support in the world! I really enjoy your videos, (I am a self taught, crocheter)& I brought them to the attention of my wife who now watches also. Keep up the good work 👍
I changed mine to the knife hold while watching your video! I have thumb tendon issues from a prior surgery and so far it is more comfortable. Paying attention to my seating and posture and sitting in a gaming chair has been helpful. I take frequent breaks while crocheting. I think its due to me getting bored but it helps prevent burn out.
I am a "seasoned" crocheter. I frequently do marathon sessions and discovered years ago that a regular sized pillow in my lap does wonders for fatigue in my arms and shoulders. I also switch out with a lap desk. It gives me a slightly different posture. I do have 2 damaged hands that also have arthritis and I find that crocheting results in less pain; I've been told that joints are naturally lubricated with movement. Ive recently bought a neck light. I'm surprised how much a good light lessens stress!
Love your channel.
Great info. Love the crochet pillow one. I have back problems after surgeries & I believe the pillow will be a big benefit for me. Thanks for all the info.!
I started crocheting in 2014 when I quit smoking. I thought it would be great to help break the hand to mouth habit. I learned on you tube. I now crochet prayer shawls for a church, they must be at least 64x24 rectangular. I make at least 1 a week but have made up to 4 in a week. I have ppl tell me I crochet fast. I was on a night flight last week and the flight attendant stopped to tell me how fast I am. I have had ppl make jokes and say I crochet violently😂😂😂. I think I am fast because I am passionate about crocheting and 2 rows into a project I am already dreaming and planning the next one. Find what is comfortable for you. Love what you do. Happy hooking everyone 😎
Mt daughter bought me a peacock tensioner ring for Christmas last year. I hadn't knitted or crocheted in years but I was curious to try it. Love it (for crochet; it doesn't work for me for knitting because the ring goes on the left hand only and I yarn over with my right hand while knitting.) I've made two baby blankets, a sweater, and half another blanket since then.
I've watched hundreds of crochet tip videos. Yours was by far the best! So practical and presented so well. And I've taken notes. Thank you!! ❤❤❤
Great. Idea. I’ve been crocheting for over 60 years and I always learn something new. TY
Hello, just found you, in UK, thank you for all your tips, definitely buying a yarn ball winder. Hubby made me a stand (like your mug tree) on which I push an empty kitchen paper towel roll, as they are tough, through the center of my yarn ball, insert on the stand and is so easy to use as it turns freely while doing crochet. Also he has turned a few bowls so I fastened one of those spring paper clips to the edge, turned down one side to thread my yarn through the othe wire wing, which is great for cotton yarn balls. Best wishes from England and will be watching often. Hugs 💖
Self taught crocheter here & so glad for these tips! I’m so glad to see someone with a knife grip. It seems a majority of TH-camrs I watch are pencil grip. And im also a lefty! 😬
i just did a bunch of your sunrise coasters, and i found myself getting faster and faster! definitely a fantastic easy pattern, especially since i have no coasters! lol
I just started watching your videos after coming back from Rheinbeck. The friend that went there with me has been knitting for decades, and crocheting, spinning, weaving, tatting, etc. I'm an artist, but I've always wanted to explore the craft side. I was a disaster at knitting. So I took two crocheting classes there and seem to have caught on. At the class I learned how to make granny squares, and I'm still working on them. My biggest issue in going forward is that I bought a granny square kit and it doesn't have a diagram, just a written pattern. I'm very visual and there isn't a close up of the granny square that the woman on the picture is modeling.. I'm still struggling with how to read patterns. Your videos are wonderful and have been very helpful. I'm not giving up!!! The friend that I went up to Rheinbeck with doesn't live nearby, She's in NJ, I'm in NY. I don't drive, lol.
I'm the same way - super visual learner! Took me YEARS to be able to parse written patterns! Here's my advice - look up some granny square tutorials on youtube! There's crochet tutorials for pretty much everything you can think of on here, and you get a visual demonstration along with an explanation! That's how I learned primarily. Hope this helps!
Keep at it! I've been planning a pattern reading video. Hopefully that would be helpful. Welcome to the channel - so happy to have you :-)
You are using the impressive mindsets of both an engineer and a physical therapist. Great video! ❤
I've been using the pillow crochet forever and it's the best! I mean it's just a normal pillow but it's the way that I was more confortable.
While most of your tips are fantastic, I strongly disagree with one of them. Holding your work in your lap will not decrease the strain on your neck, it actually increases it because you are compressing the disc between the two vertebrae to look downward while creating a constant prolonged stretch to the muscles and tendons in the back of your neck and across your shoulders. I once did a graphgan that took 9 months and the constant compression on one edge of the disc caused it to herniate out one side of the vertebra putting me in the hospital for 19 days needing surgery and physical therapy. According to orthopedic doctors the best posture for anyone who does crafts regardless of what kind is to have your work either on a table or propped up by pillows to a level where you can see what your doing but basically holding your head level as if to look straight forward. This takes pressure off both the neck and the shoulders. If you need to put pillows on your armrests to raise your arms so that they are at your side with your elbow bent at 45 degree angle do so (this is the same posture they always taught in typing classes to avoid upper back strain.) After I recovered from my surgery my husband made me a table on wheels that is wide enough to roll over the top of recliner so that I can hold my work up and look forward and it has not only reduced shoulder and neck pain but made me faster.
Great advice ❤
@KayVCornett
Thank you for sharing this. I noticed some pain in my shoulders and neck and I certainly don't need another herniated disc. I'm a 'lap crocheter'.
@@Southamericangirl42 your welcome if the pain persists or gets stronger I would see a doctor.
Highly recommend the redirection glasses. It will have you facing forward but see the project in your lap
I use an adjustable lap tray in bed bc I’m bed bound most days.
I was crocheting up close now I'm more relaxed and can feel how tense my shoulders were. Thank you! Started in Feb this year. 10 months on loving it more than anything. 😊
I bought a boppy pillow, and it's amazing! Not only is knitting and crocheting more comfortable, but it's also a great pillow for a very chonky kitty to sit on my lap. ❤
New to crochet?❤ Toni is inspiring! You picked a great instructor. I will add this, tho; keep crocheting. Nothing will move you forward like practice does. Use cheaper brands of yarn at first and make, make, make to give away those projects (goodwill it or give to a pet shelter). I started in March, and now it is November. It has taken me this long to feel like I can make a gift with nice yarn and give it to family. Prior to my holiday list, I cranked out small pet blankets, weird hats, and even small bowls. Not once did I try to use a pattern. I am working my way to that before year's end. Learn from your mistakes. They will show you the way to getting it right next time. Always make it fun!
First time viewer and I absolutely love you. Now english is far from my native language so forgive me. Some people talk talk talk and have very long intros. But not you. You are informative and right to the point I really appriciate that - thank you and Godd bles you.
I love using a Yarn Genie for when I need to work from the outside of the ball, like needing to follow a colour change in a certain direction
Love your tips and I have to say I already use them all. A sweet fellow h00ker in our social media crochet group suggested the Boppy style pillow because I was having shoulder pain. Instead of buying one (way overpriced!) you can make one. I did and I’ve never looked back. I had no idea what a difference it would make. Thank you for all of your lovely videos. You are a sweetheart.
Toni, first I want to say this is a much needed crochetor. I've been crocheting since I was a young child decades ago and everthing you recommended is good. I developed tendonitis, crocheting to many large blankets. LOL😊 For me I believe the hook make the difference with the yarn. I switch hooks manufacturers depending on yarn and pattern. But in the end you have to find your happy place in crocheting. Thank you. 🤗
My speed-up tip: I've noticed (as with exercize), listening to uptempo music can speed up my crochet because my motions tend to sync with the rhythm. Think Pointer Sisters "I'm So Excited" and The Weather Girls "It's Raining Men" 🙂
I am new to crochet, and I just tried holding the hook further down and I find it so much easier to get smooth stitches now! Thank you!!
We can all use tips! I finally got myself a yarn bowl & it helps me so much. My next buy will be a Valeri pillow. I have neck problems (have had 2 neck fusions) & I think this will help out a lot! Ty Toni! ❤
Having crocheted for over forty years I dont notice many of the issues with necks and shoulders. The irony is I've been told many many many times that I dont hold the hook correctly nor do I handle tension correctly. - as if there's one method???? Despite that my tension is spot on. My favorite stitch is SC DC in same chain, then skip one.repeat. It goes fast and without the gaps like a granny square. I've used this for blankets and sweaters and it looks amazing. Appreciate the tips. Love the channel.
My wife ADORES you ! She has been charmed by the colors you put together. Liked & subscribed!
I have been crocheting for over 40 years and I have figured out how to get faster. You hit all of the tips. Toni God Bless You
I have found it's the type of yarn ! use that determines how fast I crochet as well as the size of the hook. I crochet faster with worsted weight and lighter weight yarns than I do with bulky and super bulky no matter the tension I put on the yarn. The larger hook sizes are a little more cumbersome for me as well. Yet, I love how fast the projects with bulky and super bulky weight yarn make up. It all depends on what project I'm working on as I customize a lot of the patterns I work with.
Love your channel, Toni!! It has helped me improve my crocheting and given me the confidence I need to up my game.
This is so true. For me, metal erganomic hooks make it smoother
Toni, you're a queen! I lovee love love your tips, patterns, reviews, content, and simply the way you bring me joy!! Would you share a gift list or suggestions for gifts for the crocheting friends in your life?
I have back problems and have found it so much better to sit at my desk or table where i can have my arms on the hard surface it helps to relieve the pain a lot and easier to get up when I need to stretch out my muscles . I do this about every 45 minutes to give everything a break .
I’m a beginner and this video was full of tips I will use to help me become more efficient when crocheting. Thank you for including the types of stitches that work up faster too!
Thank you so much for these tips. They really helped and I shared your video with a friend who after crocheting for long periods of time has shoulder pain. Hopefully she will follow along and it will help her also. God Bless and happy crocheting! ❤
Great video- you are a such a good presenter! You do not waste time and get right to business, which is why I love your videos.
Hey I just found your channel and wanted to say I love your personality and charm you got me completely drawn into the video right form the begging which says a lot considering I find it really hard to watch videos about crochet stuff as most people just talk too much but you were super fun to watch as well as super helpful!