Crochet World – August 2019

AUGUST 2019 CROCHET-WORLD.COM Crochet World 45

using the eye as a guide so that they end up with
beautiful stitches. For example, one might loosen
up when working post stitches since they need
to extend over a longer span, or tighten up when
working a series of chains so that they look neat.
Depending on the stitch pattern, a skilled cro-
cheter is constantly adjusting tension to achieve
the most attractive results. I call this skill, which is
often overlooked, flexible tension.

If you are ready to get more serious about
gauge and control of tension, here is an exercise
I recommend: Pick a yarn from your stash and
your favorite hook. Work up a small swatch and
measure gauge. Now, see if you can get two or
three different gauges with the same yarn and
hook. If you tend to work tightly, challenge your-
self to achieve a larger gauge. If you’re loose, aim
for a smaller gauge than what is normal for you.
Please be nice and don’t judge yourself harshly;
if you’ve been crocheting for a while, your hands
are accustomed to certain muscle patterns, and all
ingrained habits take a while to change. If you can
stick with this exercise, I’m quite sure your skill will
improve, and you will not be fearful when you see
a project where gauge does matter. CW

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