Crochet for Beginners: Common Questions & Answers

Blossom Lady
Nov 06, 2020 07:32 AM
Crochet for Beginners: Common Questions & Answers

Hello, my dear crocheters! I keep answering some of the most common questions you have and to anticipate some questions you didn’t know you had. Today I invite you to learn more about specialty stitches, in particular, what is an extended stitch, what is a cluster, how to make a nice shell stitch and what to do if your shell stitch looks crowded, how to make the popcorn stitch look neater if it seems too loose and floppy, and more. I hope that this information will lead you down the road to gaining the confidence that makes for good crocheting.

What is an extended single crochet stitch?

Crochet for Beginners: Common Questions & Answers
Extended stitches, sometimes called Elmore stitches are taller, slightly looser versions of the standard stitches. Each of the customary stitches can be extended to create a stitch with an intermediate height. These transitional stitches may be used to create smooth curves or a looser fabric than is possible with the standard stitch patterns. Extended single crochet is also known as ESC or double single crochet. Create an extended stitch by adding an extra “yarnover, pull through loop” step to a basic stitch pattern. The extended sc is easy to do and it gives a better drape than standard sc, so its very useful in crochet garment making. ESC in the body of a cardigan or sweater gives a beautiful drape without being too bulky or having too many holes. To make it, simple follow these steps: Insert hook into stitch, yarnover and pull up a loop; yarnover and pull through one loop on hook. Yarnover and pull through two loops on hook.
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What is a cluster?

Crochet for Beginners: Common Questions & Answers
A cluster is a generic term used to refer to any group of stitches that have been worked together. A cluster is made by working several partial stitches in a row, then finishing them all together with one final “yarnover, pull through all loops.” The base of the cluster may be in one stitch or space, or it may range over several stitches, but when the stitch is complete and all the loops are finished off together, it counts as a single stitch on the next row or round.
One example of a 3-dc cluster might be: Yarnover, insert hook in next stitch and pull up a loop, yarnover and pull through two loops on hook; (yarnover, insert hook into same stitch and pull up a loop, yarnover and pull through two loops on hook) two times, yarnover and pull through all four loops on hook. The term cluster is used to denote many different stitch pattern variations. It could refer to decreased stitches as in dc3tog; a popcorn, bobble, or puff stitch; or another variation. Always check your pattern for instructions particular to that pattern.
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What should I do if my shell stitch looks crowded and I can’t really see the scalloped effects?

Crochet for Beginners: Common Questions & Answers
A shell, or fan, stitch is a group of stitches worked into the same base stitch. Crowding the base of the stitches into one spot forces the top of the stitches to spread out into a shell or fan shape. If you are working from a published pattern, be sure you are reading the instructions carefully. Because the top of the stitches need room to spread, it is necessary to leave space on either side of the shell. Be sure to skip enough stitches between shells to show off the pattern.

Here is my post about shell stitches for those who want to learn more: https://lifehack.craftorator.com/102-crochet-for-beginners-learning-the-shell-stitch.html
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My popcorn stitch seems too loose and floppy. Can I make it look neater?

Crochet for Beginners: Common Questions & Answers
Here are some ways to neaten your popcorn stitch.
Work the stitches on a slightly smaller hook than you have been using for the rest of the stitching.
Make your popcorn stitch with fewer stitches.
Make a bobble instead of a popcorn.

Here is my post about popcorn stitches for those who want to learn more:
https://lifehack.craftorator.com/112-crochet-basics-popcorn-stitch.html
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Can I use popcorns, puffs and bobbles interchangeably?

Crochet for Beginners: Common Questions & Answers
Although they don’t look exactly the same, you can usually substitute a bobble for a popcorn and vice versa, since both stitches, when completed, count as a single stitch. Puff is different and usually you can’t use it instead of bobbles or popcorns. However, be consistent: Don’t substitute bobbles and popcorns willy-nilly throughout your fabric.
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Can I make my popcorn stitch appear on either side of the fabric?

Crochet for Beginners: Common Questions & Answers
Yes! When you take the hook out of the stitch, reinsert it into the stitch from front to back, and the popcorn goes to the front of the work. If you insert it from back to front, the popcorn ends up on the back of the work. You may need to use your fingers to encourage the stitches to go to the side of the fabric you want them to.
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2 comments
Carol Coles
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Nov 06, 2020 09:59 AM

what did I do wrong what should I do when the end of my projects curl at the end like a scarf thank you

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Nov 10, 2020 06:50 AM

what did I do wrong what should I do when the end of my projects curl at the end like a scarf thank you

Hi, Carol! Usually, the reason is the tension. Try to be very aware of your tension as you’re working. Is your hand gripped over the yarn so tightly your fingers are cramping? Loosen your hold a little and see if this improves the tension.