You are here because you want to know “Why is my crochet getting smaller” and how to fix it.
I am here to help with the main reason and solution to this crochet problem. If you are a beginner, this is probably the most common mistake you can make. And if you’re anything like me, you want to learn to get better.
I put together the main reasons why your crochet is getting smaller/going inward.
Skipping stitches
This is the main reason your crochet is getting smaller. This is not a bad technique when done intentionally. But done unintentionally, can cause frustration and waste time.
The technique I’m referring to is called decreasing where you are intentionally skipping “x” amount of stitches to create a shape or design.
This may be a surprise if you are not doing this intentionally. These are common mistakes beginners make and are crucial to fix.
Skipping can be caused in a few places in your crochet project. It can occur within the stitches from beginning to end, or the first or last stitch itself.
Let’s talk math
Now we know what technique we are doing (unintentionally) this is where we fix it.
We know that counting is important in crochet projects. If you are off by a few stitches it can change the outcome of your project.
If we start with 14 stitches of double crochet in one row, in the next row we should still have 14 stitches of double crochet. If the next row only has 12-13 stitches, this shows a stitch was skipped (the math is off)
Counting your stitches/rows in your project will help save time, maintain consistency, and produce the outcome you like.
Most skipped stitch
Normally those who are beginners skip the turning chain found at the end of every row. A way to remember this turning chain needs a stitch is by placing a stitch marker inside of it.
As seen in the picture above, without placing a stitch in that turning chain, can turn this project inward.
Should I frog it?
In most cases, you will have to undo a section of your crochet project to correct this error.
If you don’t know this crochet term, frogging is the process of unraveling or undoing stitches in a crochet project. We call it “frogging” because you “rip it, rip it, rip it” which sounds like a frog’s croak.
There are different techniques for adding crochet stitches but it’s very advanced and normally looks abnormal in the final look. This includes adding stitches to its border.
If you are looking for a seamless and polished look, it’s best to frog your work.
What to do next time (Conclusion)
There are simple ways to avoid this issue of your work getting smaller. We want to count our stitches, place a stitch marker at the ends of our work, and keep practicing until it becomes 2nd nature.
This post answers your question “Why is my crochet getting smaller”
P.S I go over this common mistake in another post along with other tips/tricks that can help you
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