Why Is My Crochet So Tight? How to Loosen Your Tension
If you can barely get the hook into your stitches, your loops are forming on the narrow throat of the hook or you're gripping the yarn too hard. Five ways to loosen your tension, from how you hold the yarn to choosing a hook.
Pattern at a glance
US terms- Skill level
- Beginner
- Time
- 15 minutes of practice
You'll need
- A hook one size larger
- Smooth worsted yarn
In this post
Tight crochet usually means your loops are forming on the narrow throat of the hook instead of the full-width shaft, or you're squeezing the yarn so it can't flow. The stitch is only as big as the part of the hook it was made on. Slide each new loop up onto the shaft before you yarn over, let the yarn run more freely through your fingers, and the next row will be easy to get into.
The rest of this post is just below — free, as always.
Signs your tension is too tight
- The hook won't go into the stitches of the previous row without forcing.
- Your hand or wrist aches after a short time (see crochet hand pain).
- The fabric is stiff and curls (why crochet curls).
- Your swatch has more stitches per inch than the pattern.
How to loosen up
- Use the shaft: After pulling up a loop, push the hook forward so the loop slides onto the wider shaft before the next yarn over.
- Relax the yarn hand: Wrap the yarn once around your little finger and over your index finger, and let it slide. If it's wrapped several times, unwrap one. See how to hold the hook and yarn.
- Lift your index finger less: A high, tense index finger pulls the yarn taut. Lower it slightly.
- Go up a hook size: The simplest fix if the fabric is good but too dense. Your gauge will change, so swatch again for garments.
- Try an ergonomic hook: A thick handle stops you gripping hard, which loosens your whole hand.
Tight on purpose
Amigurumi is worked tightly on purpose so stuffing doesn't show — there, go down a hook size. For blankets, garments and bags with drape, loose and even is better. If your tension is fine but inconsistent row to row, see why your crochet is uneven.
Common questions
Is it better to crochet tight or loose?
Even is better than either. Tight suits amigurumi and baskets; looser suits blankets and clothes. Change the hook size rather than forcing your tension.
Why can't I get my hook into my stitches?
The loops were formed on the hook's throat. Slide each loop onto the shaft before you yarn over, or use a bigger hook.
Does yarn affect tension?
Yes. Grippy cotton and splitty yarns feel tighter. Smooth acrylic or mercerised cotton flows more easily while you're learning.
Did you know about the throat vs. the shaft? 🪝
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