Things I NEVER Do In Crochet

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[@hodgeelmwood8677]

I can read patterns because I taught myself (from a book) how to do some basic crochet stitches, but now I prefer to watch video tutorials instead. It's so much easier to understand a pattern when you can see someone actually work on it. And yours are among the easier to follow!

[@elizabethfowler5767]

i soooooo agree with you

[@laurelgirard8475]

I’ve mixed different weight yarns together. It makes a very textural look. I don’t do videos for others, so it isn’t so important. I have never gushed or blocked anything. I,too,make things for myself so I try it on as I go. Dye lots. I never think about due lots. I have only had one item that I couldn’t use a skein. It was Red Heart Ombré Anemone. They changed the thickness,color, and texture from one season to the next.

[@AmandaWhite-gn5mf]

I also don’t gauge or block I also don’t like to see projects together.

[@n2creativity-ccladee640]

Great video! So interesting to see how we might make the same thing but do it different ways - using a gauge, blocking, even color matching! The main thing I never do is apologize for how I approach and make my crocheted items. I come from a family of fiber artists and we all do it differently - from holding the hook to blocking or not to dye lots, etc. I do not look exactly like anyone else and I do not crochet exactly like anyone else. 😊

[@pamelatheado6484]

I agree with you.

[@deborahwray8384]

Crystal, I admire you for being able to design things from your memory of stitches! I can read patterns and probably write patterns but I'd rather have your gift of creating from scratch!!

[@amydavis4945]

Things I never do: 1. I never do gauge either. Even when making wearables. 2. I have never blocked anything - even 30 years ago when I was making doilies and table runners. 3. I never "color control". I kind of like the randomness of colors when I'm using multi-color yarns. If I want exact stripes, I buy the colors I want in single-color skeins/cakes. 4. I don't make Granny Square anythings. Only exception is when I'm using up leftover yarns and making "rugs" (blankets) for a no-kill animal shelter I donate to. 5. I don't buy yarn "hanks" - there have been a FEW exceptions (like I have some "Steve" hanks and some other really specialty yarns). 6. I don't throw away yarn "bits" that are more than 2-3 yards. I'll use them for eyes, nose, mouth, tassles, pompoms, etc. 7. I don't hold my hook like a pencil; I hold it like a knife. 8. I don't make squares/motifs/panels if they aren't "join as you go". 9. I don't "chain 2" or "chain 3" when starting a row of Double Crochet. I use other methods depending on the project. 10. I don't use "chains" as my "foundation row" if the first row is single crochet or half-double crochet unless I have to, and never use "chains" when I'm crocheting in rounds (I use magic circles). That's all I can think of right now, but I'm sure there's more! LOL! It's always been a pet-peeve of mine when I see people telling others "you aren't crocheting right!". If their project comes out looking the way they want it to, and they are happy with it... so be it! It doesn't matter HOW you hold your hook, or how you apply tension to your yarn whether you just run it through your hand or wrap it around your ear, or if you crochet over your ends or sew them in later... none of that matters. All that matters is that you enjoy what you are doing and like the way it comes out.

[@InYarnWeTrust]

I love this. I love that there are so many different ways to do things in crochet. I would equate the not reading patterns thing to a musician who writes beautiful songs and doesn’t read music. It is totally fine. They write the song, record it, and can have someone else come in for the technical stuff of writing it down in musical notation. One of the things I NEVER do is do a chain 2 or 3 at the beginning of a row to count as a stitch. I loath trying to chain into the top of that chain at the end of the next row. I either just chain one and then do the first stitch or I start with a stacked single crochet. Thanks for the fun video. I’m curious to see everyone’s “never dos”

[@melissakilburn7395]

Yes.. so much Yes lol

[@sharoncarty5096]

I always chain 2 or 3 at the beginning. Patterns mostly from memory Thanks.

[@alicejameslovescrochet]

This video is awesome... There are so many crochet "karens" that will make you lose your crojo by telling you that you are doing everything wrong... it is a morale buster. That is why I love your tutorials! You are so very encouraging and a confidence builder by saying if you know this, this or this... you CAN do this! Give it a go! I love your encouragement!

[@NiNitosix]

Love this post!

[@silvershadow013]

Just do what makes you happy!

[@adrianaquintero7828]

Yes to everything you said here.

[@kerrycooper-dean4243]

You said it so well! Nothing worse than Crafting Karen’s. Just crochet, knit, sew, paint, quilt, *create beauty* and be happy.

[@gabrielleangelica1977]

Please don't use the term "Karen".

[@SylverFlyer]

OMG! You are hilarious, Crystal! I don't gauge either. I've blocked only one project and it was a pain! Afghans do get boring and I have found that I prefer making them out of granny squares. I still say you are amazing, coming up with patterns and designs. I think it's cool that you do all of that in your head! I appreciate all that you contribute, keep on doing you!!!

[@beverlyharward9631]

SilverFlyer, I concur with you. Afghans are pretty w/special designs but other than that, I don't like crocheting them I bore easily-I love crocheting clothing especially baby clothing but to each their own.

[@sonyasigler-by3ug]

I have mixed yarn a couple of times. Not just sizes but also texture. I made my mother a shawl, one of yours, but she is blind. I wanted her to be able to 'feel' the colors. It turned out very pretty...I think. Lol Anyway, she loved it because of the different feel. I did have to change it up a bit because some of the yarn, even if it was the same 'weight' worked up differently so I would also change the stitch. It took a while because of having to pull it out and start again so it would work out to the right size. 😊 I also did an afghan. It was interesting. It ended up being VERY large. 😂 I don't know how to attach pictures to this message but if anyone is interested in seeing them let me know. 😊😊

[@CLee-ts8mz]

That is a very clever idea for a shawl... I bet my sensory seeking fam would love it, too.

[@premieryarns]

Crystal, these six things that you never do are a testimony that you are an Artist creating with yarn. Impressive and Inspiring!

[@BAGODAYCROCHET]

Thank you ❤️

[@debbiecollum5346]

I have been watching your channel since 2016, and I have learned so much from you, Crystal. You are an amazing teacher. I never gauge, block, or match dye lots on anything I make. Thanks for all you do. 🥰

[@brendasowers5132]

My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was about 10. I have never learned to read. Pattern or do any of the things you talked about. I often change a project around and the one thing I would really like to learn more about is how to make a hat from a square swatch. You are terrific Crystal and don’ ever let anyone tell you you are not!

[@meljones9033]

Thanks Crystal for putting this out there! I don’t gauge my work, never have! I used to match dye lots, 40 years ago. But I agree, technology makes it so you don’t need to worry about it, so I don’t! I also don’t work on one project at a time. I seriously have 5 going at the minimum. I have ADD and find multiple projects keeps me from getting bored. I also don’t repeat patterns. Once I’ve done one, I go looking for something new. Keeps my mind young! 😅 Fun to see how we are all a bit different! 🥰🥰

[@rene7865]

I got into KZbin because I couldn’t read patterns. By watching your videos and writing the pattern the way I could read it opened a whole new world of crochet for me. I’ve learned so much from you Crystal, I’ll be forever grateful!! 😉

[@adeleb7753]

I love your personality and sense of humor :)) "if you're gonna hate on me... leave it in the comments below, so I can delete it" LOL! Keep Up The Great Work You Do!

[@marladevous7383]

Good to hear all of your don’ts! I’m less than a year into crochet and I don’t do those things either. Your tutorials are just right for me!!

[@wendyvandenbergh1134]

I too am 1 year into crochet and never do any of these. But I have learned to crochet from Bag O Day KZbin tutorials!! Thank you Crystal. ♥️

[@janetkillian9810]

You are so brave to put yourself out there like this! Little do you know that there are millions of us crocheting just like you in one way or another!!! Why not...like you say, "It would be a very boring world if all of us were exactly the same." Keep at it, Crystal. You are by far my favorite person to watch and B.O.D. is my all-time favorite crochet & yarn channel. ❤❤❤

[@judylee3589]

Hey girl, I LOVE your honesty. You are a very interesting woman and very intelligent as well. You just keep on doing what you do, the way you do it and we'll continue to watch, learn and love all you teach us.. You are amazing!!!

[@spiceladyes]

My apologies, my "auto correct" is taking an attitude this morning, I meant I know most of the chart stitches & what they mean, but I cannot follow a pattern chart unless it's like a graphgan, but then it's more about counting & not really about the sts.

[@arielmyers4028]

I love this video so much you cracked me up. I personally try to avoid projects with repeating segments … like an octopus... it has 8 legs I get bored after 4 and never finish lol. I never block or gauge either because I fit it as I go and then it gets worn which blocks it in its own way! Also I tend to not use the suggested hook size... I just use what makes it look how I want it too.

[@katbyrd7983]

I don’t do a lot of the things you don’t do, such as blocking and creating a gauge. I never leave a mistake in my work, if I see one! I just can’t do it! Ha! I’ll frog that sucker in a heartbeat to fix a mistake! Love watching both of your channels!❤️

[@Swtnovember29]

Same here!!

[@sherril3195]

Ditto

[@dcb32159]

Both channels??

[@katbyrd7983]

@@dcb32159 Yes, Bag O Day and BOD Life

[@jarrettd74]

Me too! I’ll frog for days to make it right

[@rosiosalas5792]

I don’t read patterns either!!! I don’t know how! 😅 I’m a visual learner! I love your channel because you make learning a new stitch so easy! I’ve been crocheting since the age of 7! I’ve never gaged anything or blocked anything as well! I feel like blocking is a waste of time since it comes undone when you wash it!

[@taniamichelle306]

❤ it! Every crocheter has there own unique way of creating, same with how they hold the hook. Kudos to all us creative beings. Hook on! 💖🤗💯🤗💖

[@PeggyF]

I'm with you on all those things. I do like to make baby blankets tho. I've been trying to read patterns but find it's easier to learn from online tutorials.

[@1inYeshuaFlock]

One thing I don’t do in crochet is: “I never not tie a knot” When I first started crocheting someone I was watching on KZbin doing a blanket tutorial said “never tie a knot when joining yarn. Just weave in the yarn or crochet over the yarn”. Well I learned a very hard lesson from that tutorial. I made the blanket with Caron Simply Soft Yarn and did exactly as they said on how to join the yarn and crochet over the top and weave in the rest of the yarn. The first time I washed the blanket it came undone at every place where I joined yarn together. I was told by a more experienced crocheter, that it was probably because the soft shiny yarn I used did not grip together like regular yarn. And to avoid that problem I should always tie a knot when joining two different colors! So now no matter what type or size of yarn I am using when I join yarn either of a different color or just adding a new skein I ALWAYS TIE A KNOT 🧶🪢

[@JaneSmith0709]

I agree. I feel like only crochet snobs have an aversion to knots. Most people would never notice them if you didn't tell them they were in there.

[@lisapeek1]

I do too. I do one knot, then weave in the rest.

[@lisac5844]

THANK YOU CRYSTAL! My aunt taught me to crochet 45 years ago, no patterns, no gauging, no blocking. I thoroughly enjoy and appreciate your tutorials and teaching method. You are down to earth, very easy to follow and understand. Keep it up!

[@jennifergridley8111]

We're 4 out of 6. I love afghans and blankets and I can read and write patterns. I prefer following your tutorials, but I can use a pattern if I had to. One thing I will never do is give up on a project. I have struggled with some of them for a long time. I'll work on it and put it aside again, but I keep going. I absolutely love crochet. I love this community and you! Thank you so much for all you do to put kindness into the world ❤

[@zoilarivera8866]

That’s so cool because all the things you say you don’t do I don’t either with the exception of reading patterns. I’m learning how to ready patterns even though I don’t stick to them😂. Thanks for your honesty and sharing🤗

[@oakstrong1]

I don't stick to patterns either.

[@DianEnglish56]

I love watching your videos. How Cool that your DH crochets. I can’t read a pattern. I only knew three stitches that I taught myself to do before I started watching your videos. I’ve only ever made afghans or baby blankets. I just so appreciate your talent and the fact that you share your knowledge and creativity with all of us.

[@user-sq2yu5zj8g]

I love to watch your tutorials about crocheting because others don't speak English very good or they speak to fast til I can't understand them. Thanks for doing slow and easy.

[@neenathatsews1085]

I like that you commission other crocheters and crafters in your designs. Spreading the love!

[@judysangregorio2787]

OH!!!! So glad to hear you don’t gauge! I don’t like it either! Totally love hearing all of the different things you “don’t” do. I never block anything either…I just let it dry flat. 💜💕❤️🧶

[@Craft-Serenity]

Love this video! I don't do anything you mentioned except I will make a blanket sometimes, but they are hand killers! & I did try to mix yarn sizes *once (= disaster!) Haha! I think that's why people love you as a teacher: no lectures, just encouragement & acceptance :)

[@nancylbn7854]

I only do a gauge swatch if it's for somebody else, or needing to be a specific size. I never limit myself to using only crochet or only knit on an item I am designing. I love combining the two art forms into a unique and special item. I can follow patterns for both knit and crochet, but most of the time I grab some yarn, a hook or needles, and let my hands tell me what I'm making. I also write a pattern in my shorthand when I'm creating things like that. I rarely make anything to sell, it's usually for gifting or donating or sometimes for myself. I block my work rarely. I find that because I've been doing this for so long, I'm pretty consistent with my tension and so far that works for me. My dream is to write patterns that combine knit and crochet and show people the beauty you can create by being flexible.

[@renaeschuchard9824]

Like You, I do not crochet Afghans , I was àlso told ,"You have to finish what you started before you start anything else". You have a wonderful memory of stitches. Thank You Very Much For Being There To Add Sunshine To Our Lives. Renae

[@rosehunter9758]

I watch tutorials, I can read simple patterns. I don't block,don't pay attention to the dye lot numbers,no swatches, I do loads of blankets and afghans.right now I'm doing your open oyster stitch! Making wraps for cancer patients, for when they get tiger treatments, nursing homes and even baby blankets for the mothers that don't have anything. I was taught by my Grandmother, the old way! Thankyou for all you do!

[@AmyWitschger]

Crystal, you're hilarious! I love that you share what you do and don't do. As far as patterns, your tutorials are amazing! I have made so many of your beautiful designs and I just write it down as I follow your tutorials. I LOVE your full tutorials! I do gauge, block, follow and read patterns! I can't imagine being a designer, but I do love making beautiful things with yarn and I'm thankful for people like you who share your gorgeous designs! 🧶 💕

[@terribunner1034]

I don’t even know how to do half the stuff you mentioned. Self taught, been slowly learning since 2014. Have come a long way. I crochet every day. Thanks for your tutorials!

[@sharonfowler2059]

i dont gauge or block things .i love making Afgans and blankets i even do bed spreads sometimes and love making shawls.i dont like things that are complicated i am 66 been crocheting 50 years .love your videos i have learned so many new patterns thanks to you

[@sharoncrabb5977]

I also can't read or write patterns, and I actually was taught to crochet with both the hook and yarn in my right hand and holding the thing I am crocheting in my left hand. People I know tell me that's not crocheting it knitting with one crochet hook. I make queen-size blankets, starting to do cardigans, hats, and other things. I love your channel, you are easy to listen to and make me smile. I am slowly going through you unboxing videos, which I love. I am a recent widow after 44 years of marriage, and watching your utube makes me smile as I also get my words muddled up, but I will be 63 this year, so I'm not doing too bad. I live in Mandurah Western Australia and am so glad I found your channel. Thanks 😊

[@cheryldean7680]

Thank you Crystal!!!! Love this video!!! I never gauge my crochet project, only block doilies and snowflakes because of laziness also and never mix yarn weights. Kudos to you for your honesty!!! You’re such a joy to watch on KZbin!!!!

[@barbjarvi6543]

Girl your great and have taught me more then I ever have known how to do in crochet

[@PegsHomeCooking]

Since I got back into crochet after watching your channel, I've seen some items I'd like to try. However, they are written, with no videos. Written patterns make my eyes roll. No patience. Just show me! That's why I love watching this channel with patient step-by-step videos. I'm tickled to hear that Mr BOD finishes your afghans! I agree they can be tedious to finish, but the few I've done in the past year since my renewal of crocheting has given me joy after that last tail has been woven in. :) I should mention, one of the first projects I started was one of your shawls. I screwed up and combined different weights. Obviously puckered in the middle. But, still works as a warm cover when I'm working in my office. :D

[@katywilkins1778]

I fell in love with you even MORE when I heard you say you “never gauged anything” I hear the angels sing and Leonard Cohen started singing “Hallelujah” in my head. Thank God somebody had the balls to say eff gauges

[@cherylsmith5307]

So nice of you to share this! Your work always looks perfect. If at all possible, i avoid counting stitches (except the beginning chain) as I go; only count if something isn't working out or looking correct. I'll block if the item is for someone else or a lacy stitch.

[@RamblingofaBabyDino]

I'm with you on these. I can read patterns but I struggle with most of them, so videos like yours are my go-to!

[@dianneacton1522]

Crystal, I love you!! In all the videos (and I’ve watched a lot) you make you are so real and kind and non judgmental and encouraging and entertaining. When I want to make something I look for a tutorial from you first. ❤️ I am 72 😳 years old, with 3 grown children. I have made each of them afghans (same pattern different colors) and I made my husband and sister one. What I like about making blankets is I can do it in the Fall/Winter while I’m watching TV and it keeps me warm. My hands are busy but my brain doesn’t have to work hard. Thank you for all the excellent videos and entertainment. You are a gem and don’t change a thing!!

[@georgia93210]

With 5 of your 6 "don'ts" I am exactly the same. I on the other hand crochet many afghans. I have been crocheting for over 40 years and love creating.

[@tmaffeo]

Hi Crystal’ love the questions and answers . I knew most of them . I guess watching you over the years I’m a good listener lol I’d love for you to do a video about who taught you crochet and your experiences along the way . The only thing I can think of was one time I made a gorgeous long cardigan granny squares and because I wasn’t sure how to hide the tails I would make knots and cut I will never ever do that again . Lol ty for all you do xoxo 🌻🌻🌻

[@ozimi3176]

I've never gauged anything, don't know how to write patterns. I do read patterns, and enjoy crocheting afghans, along with everything else. I just love to crochet! I used to have a really hard time with regulating my tension, but I switched crochet hooks and now use a crochet ring on my finger to control yarn, which helps me tremendously.

[@DrivinAndSingin]

I'm 58 and I've only been crocheting for about 6 years. I love it! I don't know how to read a pattern. I was just shown how to do it and then started watching tutorials on KZbin.

[@cherryapplebottom5006]

I’m self taught, I also never blocked, or gauged, I haven’t made an afghan, nor I have ever mixed yarn weight in any projects I’ve made, I do check dye lots-and that’s because I purchased most of my yarn at hobby lobby, I did learn how to read patterns, but I have found that sometimes I’ve had to repeat a new stitch or two to get it just right! As someone said earlier, I have learn much more from watching your tutorials than trying to interpret written patterns. I’ve watched several different tutorials from others and have found that your tutorials are easier to follow, & understand the stitches better. You are very talented as an instructor and I do enjoy learning from you!!!

[@loribyrne7354]

I have mostly the same list. Occasionally, I will do a swatch to see how a new yarn works up or feels on my fingers, but only once in a blue moon. I love that you're honest about why you do what you do. Although I can read patterns, I love tutorials better. I'm a visual learner. Keep on with what you do. You're awesome! ❤

[@shelleymccrory-martines9906]

Hi. I TOO Never do the Exact same things as you. I crochet square throws. I have crocheted quite a few baby clothes before. I like to crochet large beach bags or bags you can carry around to the grocery store. Don’t ever get rid of your channel Crystal because you’re the only one that I use for my crocheting. You’re a great teacher and once I learn your stitches I’m good. I have bought books and shows you how to read patterns but I am a hands-on girl. I have to See it actually done then I’ve got it. Thank you Crystal….my Teacher for these last 8 years or more

[@user-zm9cb7zr3i]

I don't Guage or block my work either. I make up my own stitch patterns for blankets. When I don't follow your tutorials. I love your realness.

[@karenherndon1811]

I don’t use different yarn weights. I don’t gauge any of my works. I don’t block any of my work. I used to match dye lots, since one of my projects looked bad because I hadn’t bought enough yarn to finish it. I have crocheted many afghans…I love the repetition…most of the time !! I can read and follow easy patterns, but have come across a couple in kits that threw me for a loop, and I had to design my own pattern for the yarn. I usually turn to your tutorials for inspiration on patterns to use for certain yarn weights. I have learned more from you and your tutorials since I started watching you, than I had in the last 40+ years that I have crocheted! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help!

[@cathyrandolph7135]

I’m the same for the first five of these. But I can read a pattern if it’s written well. The easiest patterns I’ve ever used are the ones I got from your flash drive I bought on Etsy. So whoever writes your patterns for you does an excellent job of keeping it simple.

[@ramonac6426]

I bought the flash drive too ! The patterns are great and easy to understand.

[@rededitss]

One thing I don't do is gauge. I don't even do clothes so I don't really need to😂

[@cristinatoscano9723]

I simply refuse to do gauge 😂

[@dianesmart368]

That is why I love your channel. I don't so any of the things you don't do. Love it.

[@christinacompton3560]

YOU ARE MY PEOPLE! I have never made a gauge swatch, I rarely worry about dye lots, I've not ever blocked anything, and I get very board making big human blankets ( I love making small human blankets aka baby blankets). I also can't ready patterns. My grandma taught me the basics of crochet when I was very young but I didn't keep up with it. Then a couple of years or so ago, my son taught himself to knit watching KZbin. I had no idea that learning all of this wonderfulness was here, so I went out, bought some yarn and hooks and "re-learned" how to crochet. Now I almost always have a hook and yarn in my hands when I'm not working. I enjoy your videos very much. Thank you for sharing your talents. PS: I saw your Michael's road trip video the other day....color me so jellyl...the closest Michael's to me is 120 mile round trip and the yarn selection stinks. I am going to have to find somewhere else to buy yarn, probably going to have to start searching on-line. Have a wonderful weekend!

[@happykrocheters]

Love it! I do some of your do nots. I do read patterns and actually starting crochet tech editing with my daughter too!!!! Super excited to start working with designers! I never blocked till I’m working on my crochet instructor certification. Unless it’s a granny square project, I don’t foresee doing a large blanket again. 1 took me over 15 years to pick back up and finish.

[@hildamarquez3558]

Hello Crystal, I love to watch your videos. I’ve learned to crochet when I was a child during summer school. So some of the things I don’t do in crocheting are similar to yours. One thing I don’t know is to follow pattern. I usually make my own garments to fit me. I watch tutorials and based on what I’ve learned from the tutorials I design my own garments.

[@jackiegrant410]

Thanks so much for your honesty. I’m a beginner, aged 62, you’re the only teacher that I can relate to on KZbin, you think out of the box, I can’t follow patterns, in fact patterns or instructions of most kind are difficult for me, show me a diagram and I’ve got it. I have to watch and the pattern eventually sticks in my head. I love your teaching method, I’m obsessed with your hats at the moment, I know that I’ll be onto the next thing soon, but hats are circles, for some reason I cope better with circles and the many changes, but blankets seem notorious. Really appreciate your time and teachings. ❤

[@jackiemiller4126]

My grandmother taught me to crochet…around the same age as you were…and i think, we are around the same age…I never ever have blocked a project…and I’ll avoid a pattern with picós😂HATE THEM! I have to be honest, my gram taught me the basics…I’m learning to master my craft with you and a few other channels as my guide. I appreciate that you provide a gauge for your clothing, as I’m extremely tiny and find it hard to find items I like that fit. There is so much to what you do, you truly are a gem… ❤❤

[@yarnmotivated-joyceswensso9744]

This was super fun. About the only thing I never do is worry about others opinions of my crafting 😂

[@ramonac6426]

Amen !

[@donnaphilpott7638]

I enjoy your channel, Crystal. .I taught myself to crochet 50 years ago, using a booklet I got at Big K.

[@devong1414]

I love story videos like this. I could listen all day. I also wish I had been taught the way you were. Thank you for sharing both your stories and your knowledge. ❤

[@brendaharness3793]

I absolutely love that you tell us if the turning chain counts as a stitch or not, and where to place the first stitch.

[@kathyboswell9850]

I’ve tried to read a pattern too! I can’t make heads or tails out of it so I love your way of teaching! Thanks Crystal.

[@rosesmith6925]

To each her own! Love your work and honesty ❤️😂 I don't do Hobby Lobby either but only because the owners had too much to do with sneaky anti-abortion stuff with SCOTUS

[@debraleonard2440]

I agree I don’t mix weights. Gauge. Block or write patterns. Or worry about dye lots. . I can read patterns a little bit. You are a joy to watch glad there are people like you out there.

[@cathywarren9331]

I feel so much better after watching this!! I don’t do these either! Except afghans! I love doing those!

[@jsschnc]

My major "don't" is that I don't wear anything I knit or crochet! My dirty little secret is that I hate wool. It's itchy and makes me hot. I love to make things with my hands and I've learned to give away my finished pieces only to people that understand what effort went into the time and workmanship. Other than that I keep most of what I make and periodically pull it out to look at it. That gives me pleasure.

[@kerrieheinz1972]

I give away everything I make too. The only things I make for myself are hats, scarves & fingerless gloves. Everything else I crochet are gifts for other people 💗

[@kathykupanoff6023]

Makes perfect sense to me! I'm pretty much the same except i do wish i had your vast library of stitches in MY head. Keep doing amazingly creative & talented you!! ❤️

[@conniewagner4234]

I’m lazy, too. I totally understand and agree with you on not gauging, blocking, matching dye lots! Patterns are hard for me to follow. I’d rather have fun crocheting. 😊

[@judylake8464]

I don't do gauges, blocking, or mix yarn weights. I've made only one big afghan ( your cat pattern one, that I still need to edge) I do match dye lots and I can read patterns. I have made items using the stitches in a pattern for an accessory. Such as I made one of your baby dresses, then used the same stitches to make a hat, diaper cover, pacifier clip booties etc., but that is the extent of my "designing". You have been gifted with a very impressive talent of being able to design items without a pattern. You also can read and write a pattern to a certain extent, in that when you are showing us a tutorial, you are actually reading us the pattern. I'm so amazed by you, Crystal! You are more incredible than you give yourself credit for. Keep designing and doing your tutorials. I, as well as your fan base appreciate you.

[@sarahmahoney7786]

Thank your for your tips! I'm learning more and more everyday from you! Thank you!

[@sherylveliz2568]

I feel so much better now. I’ve never gauged, I try to match dye lots but sometimes I can’t. I’ve only blocked a couple of things. I’ll do smaller sized easy afghans but I get bored and I put it down so it takes my forever! The only designing I do is when I make a mistake and I just learning to read patterns. I have learned so much from watching your tutorials. You are an awesome teacher! On a side note you say wash just like my mom did with an “r” She’s been gone for almost 30 years now. It warm my heart when you say “warsh”. ❤❤❤

[@annetteolson2428]

I love your comments on what works for you! I agree with most of them. I have downloaded many of your tutorials and use them to make Prayer shawls for my church group. Making a shawl takes about long enough to not get too bored, and I have at least three projects going, with different styles and patterns, at a time for variety

[@susankautzman4791]

I love hearing your "don't do" list and the reason is, I don't do those things either. I usually make blankets that I donate to the local cancer center. (I'm also a little lazy). Sometime I start out to make an afghan and end up getting bored with it. I have to put the project away for awhile or just end it. I did do a full size blanket with the granny stripe and all of my scraps once. Keep on keeping on girl. LOVE what you do!!!

[@sandraouaguena3292]

I have a vast amount of stitches in my head!! Love it! Pure Genius!!!

[@deborahlemonis7745]

I am very similar to you. Except- I am Self taught. I started when I was a teen. I am now a young 73. Lol. I don’t gauge,block,match dye lots,never mix yarn weights,have never read a pattern. I make blankets and toys for my family. I did my first sweater vest following your video. Thank you so much! I write everything down in my terms for later use. Been following you for probably 3 years now. Thank you again ! - you stirred my love of crochet and I am enjoying the craft. Debbie 😊

[@daniellesoucy5269]

I'm right there with you Crystal. I don't read patterns, never really learned how. I don't gauge or care about dye lots and I've only blocked one item, which was a present to my Nana. You rock lady! Thanks for putting yourself out there!❤

[@depcat4629]

💖✨🧶☕😂🫂✨💖 You're Hilarious and Honest! I don't gauge, I love patterns and am so surprised how much fun it is to crochet along with a video instead! You are a wonderful teacher, Thank You for devoting so much energy and time to this incredible channel. I agree that Hobby Lobby dye lots matter more than others. 😊

[@TangledNana]

I don’t gauge, block, nor do I care about dye lots. I do however read/go by patterns and I do crochet afghans, but only as gifts for others. I may look up several different ways if making the same item (ie. a Spider-man doll I’m making) and if I can’t find an exact pattern I like, I’ll cobble together elements of different patterns and make my own version on the fly, kind of eyeballing it as I go while looking at pictures and never writing anything down. I agree with you that afghans can be boring but I’m so determined to finish that I’ll work on it every spare moment I get until I get that sucker done! I really enjoy your tutorials, thank you😊

[@breagharose1857]

Omg... Sister at heart... I never do any of that except dye lots as I crocheted a brown sweater and it was very noticeable! Thank God you're human after all!

[@rebecagarcia0326]

I’m right there with ya Crystal! Although I can read a pattern, that’s how I taught myself to crochet, like from a 1950’s how to crochet book and the instructions were very well written and drawn, no pics on how to do stitches. I’ve done several of your projects and have learned so much. Thank you! Blessings to you and your family!

[@lisamerriman255]

I found this so interesting! Thank you for sharing your “secrets”! 😃

[@cindynevels2053]

Amen to everything you said … except for blocking, haha! 🤣 Me, I love to block shawls - but only if they have wool fiber (because only wool seems to hold the blocked shape after drying). It’s amazing to see the stitch pattern open up, and how much the shawl texture and drape improves with blocking. But that’s strictly a personal preference, like you said! Thanks, Crystal, for another interesting video. You always speak from your heart, and I love that. You’re the best! ❤

[@dolliegurl4607]

Except for designing patterns, same here. I love to crochet to relax, not worried about blocking and matching colors, gauging is not necessary. Made 3 baby blankets and found it barely tolerable, can't imagine an entire afghan! I enjoy watching and learning from you and a few others, but I really want to keep crochet as an activity I go to for stress relief, like meditation. Sometimes I "free range" crochet and just make whatever I need at the moment, or make swatches of new patterns I'm learning. Sometimes they're silly little items like pan handle covers for my cast iron, or a soap saver for the shower, a dish drying mat, things that are practical and useful. Or I crochet Barbie clothes just for fun. Whatever it is, I want to enjoy the process. It's really nice to grab my coffee and a few hooks and watch Crystal teach a new stitch pattern (new to me). Thank you for sharing, right now I'm feeling my crojo creepin' in...

[@user-bk4po9kk3g]

Love you and your honesty. I would rather watch a tutorial than read instructions. I learn by watching. I might write the rows down in my style so I can remember the stitches, but I’m a visual person. I was happily surprised about your comments because the same here. Thanks for sharing.

[@tfabrizio4039]

Omg!!!!! Thank you for this! You're my people! So glad to hear someone else that doesn't do these things. Only thing I've dabbled in is writing patterns of things I've made to reproduce them. And because it's so boring for me to read others I always end up just doing my own thing when trying to follow a pattern. I was taught the basics and have expanded my craft because of people like you! I love your tutorials! You are amazing. So happy to hear that I'm validated as a crochet artist just the way I am crocheting. Thank you!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@annette92269]

You are my soul sister!!! I have only been crocheting about a year and a half. Only just now can I even understand basic basic basic patterns (reading). Can’t gauge! Don’t block! Afghans are fewer by the months! You’re the best!

[@marianeculek3261]

Love to hear that you don't gauge❤️❤️❤️❤️ I can't read a pattern either. This is why I love these videos! Thank you!!!!!

[@judithbrown4229]

I just recently learned to read patterns, I mix different brands together of the same size. I enjoy doing baby blankets, not so much afghans, but I enjoy doing amigurumis. Never used stitch markers, love using 3 and 4 ply yarns. This was a joy to watch.

[@jeannettewisnewski7854]

You’re awesome. Who could hate you??? The more I see of your work the more impressed I am. You’re the best teacher. Thank you. So glad I found you. ❤

[@gr8estgrl]

I love this! I never ever gauge or block either. I never make myself finish a project before I start another one because crochet is my fun, not my punishment! I do love to crochet afghans - I have a couple in progress - but I like to have small quick projects too. I love your hat designs so much Crystal!

[@brendacarter1574]

I don’t gauge either! I taught myself to read patterns and to crochet and knit! I make afghans and baby blankets, but I am amazed at how you can make such beautiful patterns just in your head! 😮

[@sharonkelley9791]

I don’t gauge or block either. I do read patterns. I have made afghans in the past. I enjoy making scarves with nice yarn. This enables me to purchase a small amount of expensive yarn and complete a project in a short time. I knit and crochet. I love your videos and watch them all.

[@bobbiallison1117]

Because I really had no one to teach me how to crochet, I learned from a book. At age 12 I even went so far as to learn broomstick lace from the instructions that came with the tool. I guess being an avid reader has come in handy, lol. You have taught me so so much, and given me the confidence to crochet sweaters, and things I never thought I had the skills for. I cannot thank you enough!

[@cathydixon5218]

Love this video. I never gauge or match dye lots. But I do read patterns. But love falling your wonderful tutorials. Thanks Crystal for all your wonderful videos.

[@leticiasalas8061]

Crystal, I like how honest and genuine you are in this video about the things you don't do as a crocheted. I have to agree, I am the same way with most things, because some tasks are a waste a time. Last but not least, I enjoy your tutorials.

[@teresahershberger6912]

I love your tutorials. I usually never gauge anything, and i have never blocked any work that i have done. I do read and write patterns. I used to sit with grammy and she taught me the basic stitches before she passed. I learned the rest by reading patterns.

[@dorothymorris1680]

To each their own. Thanks for sharing