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Everybody makes mistakes. When you’re new to crocheting, you’ll realize this pretty quickly. And even when you think you know everything about crocheting, you’ll find that you’re far from perfect. Here are some common crochet mistakes and tips for avoiding and/or correcting them.

• Using the wrong yarn – Most crochet patterns call for a specific gauge of yarn. They do this because using a different gauge will create an end product of a different size. If you use too large of a gauge, your project will turn out larger than expected. If you use too small of a gauge, it will turn out smaller. Some patterns also call for yarn of a specific texture or material, so make sure you read the instructions and know the implications of deviating from them.
• Uneven tension – Maintaining an even tension is important if you want your finished product to look like it should. Beginners often have trouble with this, but it becomes easier once you’ve gained some experience.
• Miscounting stitches – Making the correct number of stitches is important for every project. Even the most experienced crocheter can make a counting mistake, so don’t be afraid to double check if you’re not sure. You can also use stitch markers to help.
• Crocheting in the wrong loop – In most cases, you should insert your crochet hook through the front and back loops for each stitch. Some crocheters make the mistake of only going through the front loop, and that throws the whole project off. Unless the instructions tell you otherwise, it’s important to go through both loops. Going through only the front loop makes the work thinner, and going through only the back loop makes a ridge pattern.
• Turning chain mistakes – When using a single crochet stitch, you should not skip a space after the turning chain. For all other stitches, you should skip a space after the turning chain. This mistake is quite common for beginners, so don’t get discouraged if you make it. Just go back and fix it and remember what to do next time.
• Misunderstanding crochet terms – Crochet terminology for the United States and the United Kingdom is quite different. A single crochet stitch in the U.S. is a double crochet stitch in the United Kingdom, and each progressive stitch is different as well. If you’re not sure about where your pattern originated, be sure to double check. It could save you a lot of headaches once the project is complete!

When you’re learning to crochet, you’re bound to make a mistake or two. Don’t let it discourage you. The good thing about crochet is that it’s usually easy to go back and fix any mistakes you’ve made. And once you’ve done so, it will be easier to avoid making them again.