How to REALLY Crochet FASTER ⏱🧶

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Hi friends, I hope you enjoy this video and find something of value in it. 💕 Btw, if you have issues or concerns with using talcum powder here are some alternatives: CORNSTARCH Brands that use cornstarch blends include: Burt’s Bee’s Baby Dusting Powder The Honest Company Organic Baby Powder Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Pure BAKING SODA Brands that use baking soda blends include: Honeybee Gardens Deodorant Powder Avalon Organics Silky Cornstarch Baby Powder

[@lionsoulhomestead]

Where did you get that ball winder from your video, I feel that style would be less likely to break than others I've used.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

@@lionsoulhomestead this was just an inexpensive one that I got from Michaels . Loops & Threads brand

[@beverlydevriesburrows3097]

Great advice. Thanks.

[@poodlegirl55]

I don't know if I crochet faster but I started making way more when I started working on a few projects at once. I would get color fatigue, bored of stitches ir patterns so enjoy a switch. I found that easy, medium and hard projects are doable at different times of the day so I keep a variety going. I use index cards like you and also add the date started and I bought flat plastic baskets from the Dollar store and just stack my projects up. I have eight baskets so can't start more than that but a few are usually empty or some I might just be gathering things for a future one. The cards get taped to the front and when I want to crochet I just look at my stack and pull a couple out. Doing this has increased my enjoyment of crochet and I make about three times more than I used to. Right now I only have two projects but am looking forward to going through my stash and filling up my baskets for future projects.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Now, that is brilliant! Love that approach and I can see how that would keep you motivated and even faster as a result. Enjoyment is such a critical factor 🙌🏻💕

[@DaisyandPineCrochet]

Ooh. Thanks for the tip! I also usually have two or three WIPs going at the same time because I get bored. I like to always have one that I don't need to read a pattern for so I can just mindlessly crochet without thinking and I'll pick that up when my brain is tired lol. Keeping each one in its own container would be so helpful.

[@poodlegirl55]

@@DaisyandPineCrochet It's also useful if I am taking a trip or car ride I can quickly look through my baskets, find one and dump it in a bag for travel. I always have one basket with potholders or placemats or dish cloths in it for mindless crochet.

[@paulineking3541]

I agree, I always have several projects on the go. Especially large projects, it's nice to have something smaller to swap to even if it's only a flower! Makes a big difference!

[@Alientoy]

I'm the same way but I use gallon Ziploc bags. In theory, I would hang these or store them in a bin but in reality they're everywhere. I like them because I can travel and keep my yarn and items safe, plus I can use the bag itself as a very low-quality yarn bowl. I write essential info on the outside. Hook size, what it is, yarn...

[@Floralcrafts]

I used to stress over going faster when I crocheted, and then one day, I was just watching TV and crocheting mindlessly. And I looked down and started paying attention to how fast I was going. It blew my mind that I was going faster than I normally ever would. Definitely slow down, relax, get comfortable, put something on if you can multitask, or have ADHD like I do, and just speed up gradually without thinking about it. Because that’s how it happens, you don’t even realize you’re going faster until you look down and you’re going faster!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Exactly!! That’s it!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻❤️

[@Charlie-ib2ef]

For me personally it really helps to listen to some music with a rythym that matches my crochet speed. The stitches are done so much faster this way and it’s fun! 😊

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love it! 🙌🏻😀💕

[@caralinehowden2951]

I love true crime shows, and go to youtube and pop one on and off I go, I don't need to see the video but I can listen to the narrator, thereby doing two things at a time. Love what you do and do what you love, it also helps your calm your mind, where watching a crime show won't much.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

@@caralinehowden2951 I watch a lot of crime shows when I crochet as well 😆❤️ 🙌🏻

[@kkbird21]

😂 me too!!

[@Ciesiam]

One of my biggest tips to crochet quickly is to have the tv on a program that I can listen to but not necessarily watch. It really helps. 😊

[@Sam-pm9vy]

The number one thing that (accidentally) massively upped my crochet speed was re-learning with my non-dominant hand (to teach others). Being forced to evaluate my coordination and grip on the more difficult hand fixed how I hold my yarn and hook and keep my tension when doing it with my dominant hand

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love that, how interesting!

[@mollyjones1374]

im 13 years old and have been crocheting for 1.5 years. when i need to do something quickly this is really going to help. thanks you!!

[@Lili613b]

Holding the hook is such and important tip that people over look so much. I unconsciously changed the way I held my hook over time and realized it felt so much more comfortable. I also always saw people hold their hook like a pencil and I’ve tried sooo many times but I just can’t do it. I’m glad I figured out what works best for me :)

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Yeah🙌🏻😎

[@wanderingegg_]

Yeah, I first learned crochet very young, and i was taught the knife way. So ive always held my hook like that! I worked on one project, that was very ambitious for my age, and then gave up. I came back to crochet maybe 8-10 years later as a teen and fell in love with it, and I saw all the youtubers holding it the pencil way. I tried but just could never do it! It felt so uncomfortable and clunky, plus much slower. I almost felt like I was taught the wrong way, lol! But I'm glad its just a different way to do it, not right or wrong.

[@creamcheese6609]

Interesting, I find the opposite for me. The "knife" way hurts my shoulder while the "pencil" way helps me relax.

[@rdp3holm]

I remember my mum and Oma (grandmother) sometimes scratching their heads with knitting needles. The natural oils in our hair/scalp help to glide the needles through the work smoothly. :-) Thanks for the memory as they have long since passed now.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Awe ❤️ That’s lovely ❤️

[@mjperfume1523]

I do that with my crochet hooks rubbing through my hair

[@noeliaortiz2974]

I learned crochet as a kid. When I grew up I studied music in college and my fingers used to get very dry from playing. Reading through an article from a professional bass player I learned to rub the tip of my fingers on my nose to use the oil as a lubricant. 😂 Suddenly my oily skin became a blessing! How cheap and convenient! I hardly play anymore (I am a trained singer) but the nose oil trick has stayed with me while I crochet. 😊

[@PlayHookywithMe]

@@noeliaortiz2974 😆🙌🏻love it

[@noeliaortiz2974]

@@PlayHookywithMe 🤭

[@gaoasaurusg2159]

I rest my yarn ball in a high sided candy dish. The balls rolls around easily and smoothly. Candy dishes used to be a big thing in homes. I have inherited a great number of them and find this a nice way to put them to use and enjoy them, whereas they used to sit stacked up in the china cabinet. If I am taking a project with me somewhere, I pack a ballcap. I can slide the brim under my leg while sitting in a chair waiting and the yarn ball rolls around in the cap as I work.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wow! Both brilliant ideas, thank you for sharing 👏🏻❤️

[@annemiekcortjens2424]

Just one side note on the 'working with dry hands': your hands can also be too dry and snag the yarn. In that case: please do bust out the moisturiser, but try to find one that absorbs quickly into the skin. 😊

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Absolutely 👍🏻 no need to take this to the extreme. Thanks for your feedback 💕

[@thepickledpixie9052]

I can't cope with dry hands, it's sensory hell for me! I have to moisturise before I start. 😆

[@PlayHookywithMe]

@@thepickledpixie9052 haha I get it 😂 I knew I’d get pushback on that one . 🙌🏻💕

[@jennycohl8401]

You are absolutely right. Sometimes simple is more enjoyable. I also love crocheting mandalas and doilies. There’s something about crocheting in a circle; going round and round! ❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Agreed 🧶😍

[@Mrs.Silversmith]

Also, when it comes to notes, definitely write down any changes you made to the pattern so that you don't have to reinvent the wheel if you decided to go back and use that pattern again at a later date. If you don't like writing in your books, just make sure there is a post-it there with the changes you made on it.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Absolutely! Such a fan of notes! ❤️

[@luciewager7359]

Boy, did you ever nail it with the need to sometimes slow down! I’m guilty of skipping along only to find I’m making a mess, and you’re absolutely right about the right hook! So important. I loved this video🤗

[@PlayHookywithMe]

😂😂🙌🏻🙌🏻 yesss ❤️ so glad you enjoyed it 💕

[@gracejohnston2692]

I stick my fingers into each end of a skein n push the yarn back against itself. Then I stick my hook inside that hole n pull out the center clump of yarn. Most of the time I can feel around for the end.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Awesome - pulling from the center makes such a difference, doesn’t it 👏🏻💕

[@gracejohnston2692]

@@PlayHookywithMe yes! I can put 3 skeins in a container standing up n knit a big afghan with size 17 needles! Works up quicker

[@lauriemyers3]

Omg…I love doing that and it’s so satisfying!

[@RosileeJe]

I don't know how I've never thought to put a stitch marker every so often to help keep count instead of only using them for the end of the row! I don't make large projects much but I'll definitely have to use that tip in the future A thing that I think has helped me get faster is that when I have yarn that I can't pull from the center on (or that starts getting unravelled and tangled), I reroll it into a dense yarn ball. I don't have a winder so I just do them by hand, which takes a bit of time but is so worth it. Not only does the yarn take up less space (both while working and to store!), but it unrolls so much easier and I can put it into just about any normal bowl I have lying around to keep it in place! As long as the bowl has enough weight to keep from being pulled around. The yarn unrolls easy enough that I never have to stop to unroll it myself and the ball is usually heavy enough to keep itself from being pulled out of the bowl as long as the bowl is smooth. Though if your yarn still tries to come out of the bowl, taping a keyring or something similar that you can run the yarn through to the side of a heavier bowl would probably help

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Such great tips, thank you for sharing ! I will definitely try your tight ball approach. I think that will be my solution for the collapsing center pull. Excellent! 🙌🏻🧶❤️❤️

[@autumneleaves]

i use a binder clip on the side of a plastic mixing bowl and just thread it through the clips before crocheting 😂 i store the project in the bowl if the yarn is still going. although i would need multiple clips if i’m doing multiple projects… 😅

[@janeybeasley9525]

On the knitting front, I have been an English knitter for 60 years and I was really fast, I didn’t need to watch every stitch and my tension was even but I had started to get severe neck and shoulder pain, which stopped me knitting and crocheting. I had tried continental knitting before but couldn’t match my ‘English’ finish, then I learnt that continental is less stressful on the neck, so I have retaught myself to knit, in the continental way. It is slow and has taken a while to get the tension even but I can knit and crochet again without any pain, yay🎉. This is huge for me as I spend some time each day with yarn, needles or hooks and not doing any was truly depressing. I share this because I want to encourage people that going faster is great and I have loved that in the past but going slower and not having tension in your neck can actually mean you can work longer and so get your project done faster! Thanks for your channel, I find it really informative and helpful and your tutorials are always really clear. ❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful feedback , thank you so much for sharing 🧶❤️

[@evemito]

I absolutely love that granny blanket and would love to see it finished!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

You and me both! I need to get cracking on this one. It's a wip that has been hidden away... I started it right before I started this channel! lol

[@luisethomas-herr892]

Your tips on awesome like I’ve said before. Hi this is Betty I’ve been really sick so I haven’t been here but my daughter card for her birthday and two days after we had a horrific hail storm having to wait for the appraiser was terrible but $9000 worth of damage to days later we were here to hit on by another car, I had to have concussion therapy which was really no fun but this is all beside the point thank you for those tips. They were really wonderful and I like the fact that I see that I’m doing somethings really right when I crochet fast I’m a huge European crocheter so I bring my thread through my little finger and then over my pointing finger but I have to have the right needles and I have finally found them. I love looking at everything and listening to everything you have to say it is wonderful to have someone like you hear.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I’m sorry youve been through so much, glad you are here ❤️

[@cherylshepherd5602]

I just love how you use such bright & different colors for a vibrant look! Beautiful!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you , I’m a color addict I think 😆

[@x.andrea.x3387]

As a beginner you way of explaining gripping the knife has already maid me so much faster! And less hand cramps

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I’m so glad 😀🧶❤️

[@jenniferhuff2566]

Agree completely on the expensive hooks, I was so in love with the looks of a few and bought them. I still use my less expensive hooks more often

[@PlayHookywithMe]

It’s worth a try but it’s surprising, right?

[@alisongeorge3089]

You just saved my fingers on my leading hand. I wrap it around my index finger, but I tried holding it between my index and middle. Oh my gosh it's so much better 😊

[@PlayHookywithMe]

That’s awesome, I’m so glad 😀🧶💕

[@deborahm4484]

Hi Roz thanks for all the tips the colours in the blanket your working on are so gorgeous.i agree with you about the smaller balls the larger ones are harder to work with.ive been crocheting since I was 19 I am now 74 years young and still love it.i love your channel..💟💟💟

[@PlayHookywithMe]

That’s wonderful! Thank you 😀💕

[@knottheendcrochet]

Sometimes on certain projects, I can't speed up. For me, it really depends on several variables: The yarn, the hook, the project and my mood. Having a more expensive hook doesn't guarantee anything... except less money in your wallet. :D I have domestic to luxury hooks. However, I would put my most basic hook against my most expensive hook any day because it's not about that. It just depends on what you are use to. As for speeding up... I've found that less turning of the hook helps tremendously. Also, how you hold your work. But, that's just me. :)

[@PlayHookywithMe]

ooh, good point on how you hold your work. That does make a difference for me too 🙌🏻

[@inahoney78]

Love your little helper🐈 at the end😂😂

[@PlayHookywithMe]

😻😂❤️

[@shiningempress]

PFFT the way I needed this video and someone to tell me not to rush crocheting is crazyyy i love watching yt/a movie, grinding on a video game and listening to music while crocheting on step at a time :) (but rushing all parts so theres a million tails and stuff poking out

[@caralinehowden2951]

YAY someone who actually properly tensions their wool/thread. It really does make you faster to do things right, wrapping your forefinger will not make you faster. I was taught the way you show how you tension your wool, I also knit with my wool tensioned the same way, just the other hand. I use a large baking bowl that I no longer use for baking and no issues, and always from the centre of the ball. I did have one brand that I had a lot of trouble trying to get it from the centre, knots and all, but I was determined and finally got it to work. A little tip is that sometimes you will find your row will become smaller or larger than the previous ones, undo and reduce the amount of stitches, I say this because I have been working on a pattern which no English, well except a number at the side of the screen, sometimes this is too much or too little, it will mean adjusting as you go. I have crocheted for over 55 years, and yes there is still plenty to learn.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful tip, thank you 😀💕

[@peggyharwell3674]

Your kitty and my kitty look like twins. Your granny squares are very pretty

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Awe 😻 thank you !

[@pjsebby3194]

Thank you. This video has so many ideas and tips for crocheting. I think many people will find at least 1 tip that they will take away from your video.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I hope so, thank you ! 😀🧶💕

[@bloodf-o-x4832]

Having a good posture help me a lot (I‘m sitting on my desk chair and I put my yarn ball on a little bag 😋

[@Hippieatheartxsoul]

I’ve crocheted for years and those are amazing tips. Thank you

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you so much 😀💕

[@claudiar6713]

Great video! Apart from the helpful tips, I really loved seeing the knitted badger and your cat calmly watching you rewind your yarn. ❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Appreciate it, thank you 😀😻❤️

[@lisamcanespy3645]

I absolutely love the blanket you were working on!! Your little "helpers" are adorable....I have a crochet buddy too. I am an amigurumi freak and stitch markers can be my best friends during my project. I have learned to read the pattern through before starting...and read each step carefully.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you ! ❤️

[@cassie2236]

At least with simple projects, where counting isn't really needed, I enjoy watching KZbin. Specifically longer videos I find to be better, since I'm not stopping every 15 minutes to find a new video. Podcasts and true crime videos are the most entertaining to me. Podcasts are great because I need to look at my work a lot when crocheting.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I’m a true crime fan too 😍 🙌🏻

[@jodyf.5732]

Instead of a yarn bowl I tend to use a Tupperware bowl or a popcorn bucket that I got from the dollar store. this still allows for the yarn to roll without it being caught up in the cute out in an actual yard bowl. The only downside to using bowls from my cupboard is that we tend to run out of bowls quickly because they are filled with yarn.

[@txsunshinecowgirl]

really good video, thank you for this,, i am one very blessed crocheter in i get to do this full time and crochet 7-9 hours a day and very blessed my hands dont bother me,, the note idea i highly recommend, i keep a notebook by me at all time, the stitch marker is another recommend, i have a small container sitting by me with bobby pins i got from dollar tree (i got a crap ton lol) and whenever i am unsure i will just pop one of those in

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love it, thank you ! 🙌🏻💕

[@pauletteteta7089]

Good idea to add stitch markers as you go to help with counting - thanks

[@deannesmith4979]

Love the tips. I see your buddies were there. Cute.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you ! Yes, they are fascinated by the winder 😂

[@jeromemunchel5583]

I never knew about the powder… i will be trying that tip out tonight!

[@angelabirkett9671]

Hello Roz . You know what they say knowledge is power . You are the best and i agree that one must find one's comfort zone , needles that works for you etc , etc . When i was teaching Seniors and Students to crochet i would always say take time to become familiar with what they are doing , but like you said some would want to get to the finish line before they got to the starting line and end up making lots of mistakes . And i always pull my yarn from yhe inside . Not only does it not tangled but it stays neet while working . Great tutorial . Have a great day.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

That’s really interesting, Angela, thank you. Valuable feedback . Have a great week 😀💕

[@mog-gyveroneill2500]

I crochet pencil style, but instead of raising my index finger to hold/gauge the wool, I run it through a curled index finger so my finger doesn't ache holding it up, and it provides a consistent tension. I also have to have shortish nails so the wool doesn't snag on any rough bits. I have to rewind balls of wool, as I've bashed myself in the face too many times! I use clasp earring wires as stitch markets with either small number or letter beads threaded on..saves soooo much time recounting!!

[@olgaszlapka8421]

I cannot recommend enough the Yarn Genie as a yarn holder. Nothing beats it. I don’t think about my ball of yarn until it’s gone and I need to go for another one. Brilliant product in my opinion. My absolute favourite.

[@Sassy_T]

The Wool Jenie was a complete GAME CHANGER for me. I use it for both crochet and knitting and it's something I won't go without now

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Good to know, I’ve been tempted to get one myself!! 🙌🏻💕

[@triciamcghee9037]

Im a new crocheter & am also a big fan in the index card! Keeps me off my phone but on track with the pattern.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Yeah! 🙌🏻💕

[@sallyb8919]

You are so right about learning new techniques slowly. I’m currently unable to crochet thanks to tennis elbow (which is soooo painful) ‘cos I learned mosaic crochet and got totally immersed without enough time to rest. 7 months later … I’m still “resting” … 😢. Learnt my lesson and am hoping to be able to crochet again soon. I miss it so much. Thanks for all your tutes. ❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Ohhh no , poor you 🥹 I’m sorry to read this on your tennis elbow ❤️

[@nicodianime]

Mosaic really sucks you in 😅

[@PlayHookywithMe]

@@nicodianime I’m sure 😍😅

[@jmontoya6661]

Wonderful tips, I always look forward to your videos. Over the years you learn to adjust your fingers and grip if you experience a sore thumb or finger. I’ve practiced a few different ways because of arthritis. I love Clover hooks personally. Thanks for the tip on the powder, that makes sense. I’ve had to stop knitting because for some reason that hurts my hands so much more. Many thanks!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Oooh- same - Clover hooks are a dream 🥰 Great point on adapting to pain. I often have to switch back and forth between knife/ pencil hold when I’m working with thick yarn to give my wrist a break . 👍🏻💕

[@LaceJellyfish]

Economy Value brand yarn is super cohesive and I've never had it split on me. An absolute joy to work with because of this (works and builds fast compared to many others I've used) but it is a slightly thicker weight 4 yarn than the usual so keep that in mind with your guage. Its also cheaper than many.

[@LaceJellyfish]

Thank you for the video and help!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Excellent, thank you !

[@evag5041]

Great video! Thank you for all the wonderful tips. I can absolutely improve my speed with them. I learned how to knit and crochet when I was a child and have picked it up over the years now and then. I’ve been crocheting now as much as I can for the relaxation and therapeutic benefits. Of course, the joy I feel when my project is completed is a thing too. I so appreciate your channel and being able to learn many new things. 😊

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you so much - I agree - the therapeutic benefits are the best 🤗❤️

[@craftychrystal7913]

Over the years i have found a few different sizes of steep sided bowls. Regular bowls have sides that can't keep the yarn inside. For pull skeins, (even if i have to spend ten minutes finding the center and turning it into one), i still have trouble with the yarn walking. i spread a mat (crocheted of course) on the desk and lay my skeins on it. The mat keep the slkins in place and I have no trouble. Also, I can pull a great amount of yarn out at first and pile it back on the skein. I don't spend the first few minutes trying to free the yarn from a tighter hole. For a stress free enjoyable session of crochet, i pick or change or make up a pattern that allows me to use only holes and chain spaces. i can practically watch TV while crocheting because my fingers, not my eyes are finding the next stitch placement. This also speeds up the process and allows me to spend more time crocheting because i am totally relaxed while I am working.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love these thoughts, thank you for sharing 💕

[@summerrayne42]

Thank you so much for these tips, and your cats are adorable😃!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you so much 😀😻🐈‍⬛ ❤️

[@cynthiafeldberg4782]

I use a stainless steel kitchen bowl to keep my yarn off the floor and close by. It tucks into a bag easily when I want to bring my project with me.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love it!

[@ulkuyaldaz4272]

Thank you for share this video. Your cats are beautiful.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you ❤️😽😽

[@CameronRenfrow]

I’m new to crochet but I have had to find tips due to chronic injury on my wrist that ended up making me realx/crochet faster. My hands are also quick to cramp up. My favorite things so far are using foam stress balls as crochet grips. I just stab the crochet hook through foam and it helps while also being pretty cheap and light. The other thing is a crocheted tension regulator, which takes the stress of maintaining tension off my hand.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful 💕

[@asassynation9955]

I find stitch markers to be so cute, I don;t know why! Lol! I actually make my own cute little stitch markers by using those round metal earrings clips and they’re so much easier and quicker to clip onto the stitches - I’ve considered selling them, but I don’t know if it’d be worth it because: 1) I can’t exactly sell them for much money and the materials are expensive, especially if anyone wanted real silver, etc. 2) I wouldn’t want to be stuck with loads of stitch markers that I couldn’t sell or do anything with. They’re cute though! You can be so creative with them! Also, another tip: toilet roll holders are great for putting your yarn on whilst you;re crocheting, if you get a large one you can put a couple of balls of yarn on it too and be able to work a couple of different colours together.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Both are such great ideas! Thank you for sharing ❤️

[@lindaszortyka6084]

I enjoy your videos,you are so clear with instructions and straightforward . There is no unnecessary gobbledygook to filter through. You can also use a threader from dental floss to put your yarn through a needle to work your ends in.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Great tip! 😀👏🏻 thank you ! 💕

[@ruthdaisy1036]

I always love your videos, thanks Ros! That’s such a pretty blanket you’re working on. I love hearing that you knit, too. Those knitted toys are awesome. I keep thinking about trying continental style but it feels so awkward. I’m thinking about just doing a little bit of slow practice every day and hopefully one day it will “click “.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

That's what I should have done too...just slowly practiced each time I sat down to knit. It's a good idea! You would think it would feel familiar since we use our left hand for crochet but it feels very awkward for me too. I am going to try again, though. Would be really helpful with stranded knitting, right? 💕

[@ruthdaisy1036]

@@PlayHookywithMe 🩷

[@shethra77]

​@@PlayHookywithMeI started knitting six years ago after crocheting since childhood. I always held the yarn in my left hand, so naturally knit that way too! Don't know that it's faster, but I definitely get much slower trying to do American style.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

@@shethra77 I really thought it would come naturally to me too since I’m so used to having the yarn in my left hand. I wish I could nails it-it’s the purling that I can’t seem to master. 😣

[@caralinehowden2951]

I am one of those people who would rather see what I have that will work as in gadgets and saved myself heaps of money by doing it so. Just now, today I needed something to keep me in check with rows (or row counter), just a little tip for those who are in a similar situation, most of us have these in our homes is curtain hooks the plastic ones, that look like a number 6 or 9 and it locks in so your curtain hook wont slip off over time, anyway this works perfectly for the end of the rows, no weight to them so not adding bulk in larger projects and they are made so they 'lock' the thread in and wont fall out. (there are some that actually don't have that little piece of plastic (that lock) on them that will have the curtain hook slip off and they are a total waste of money even for their intended use, therefore they are useless for row counters and the like. I hope this little tip is helpful to others too.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Excellent tip, thank you !

[@rachelhansen2417]

I initially learned English knitting, but didn’t particularly like it. Continental helped me to truly begin to enjoy knitting, and I’m glad I learned it!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful! 😀💕

[@juliewilborn-barth7]

A crochet ring is fun to try for speed😊

[@imani134]

So smart My notes never make sense to others but to me it makes it really easy to read I already make short mental notes or write better techniques or details on the instructions I already have

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love it 🙌🏻

[@alissagonzales735]

I am ambidextrous so when I crochet or knit I also include on my information card if I was doing it right or left handed. I also include hook size, yarn size and color and brand, stitch pattern and quick reference to making it and muliple used, and project I used it on. I also take a photo and develope it when project is completed and staple to card and file for the future.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love it, brilliant! 👏🏻👏🏻🧶💕

[@moirahansen1955]

Thank you for these very helpful hints and tips. I will be sharing this with my sister who has just started with crocheting. 👏😊💕

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Please do! I hope she falls in love with crocheting 😀💕

[@terryriley7490]

Great tips that I've incorporated into my crocheting over the years but don't always utilize!!! Thanks for reminding me!!!! Have a blessed and relaxing weekend 😊

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you , Terry ! Hope you have a great week 😀🤗💕

[@terryriley7490]

@@PlayHookywithMe Thank you 😊

[@michellewasson277]

Good ideas. Hello kitties, it nice to see you help out ur mommy. 😊🐾❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

👏🏻🧶💕🐈‍⬛😺

[@RameyRocks]

Every person I’ve ever watched (including my mom)who crochets holding the hook like a pencil has always crocheted faster than anyone I’ve watched (including myself) who crochets holding their hook like a knife. It just looks like they glide along so smoothly and quickly. I’ve tried reteaching myself but just can’t do it quite like I’ve seen it done. I’ve been crocheting for 32 years. You would think I would have the hang of it by now lol.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I feel like you but the other way round of trying the knife hold. 😆🧶❤️

[@jennifermary2350]

Great tips many thanks - lovely voice 😀👍

[@PlayHookywithMe]

So kind, thank you ❤️

[@Charm769]

Thank you for all the great tips! I love the blanket you are making! Such pretty colors and design!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you ! The colors make me happy 👏🏻💕🧶

[@isahannah2680]

Thank you for the tips and tricks these work so well for me since there was a chance I was about to get carpel tunnel I stopped for one week before trying to use the tricks thank you

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful! Yes please take care of yourself, it’s an easy trap to fall into 😅😅❤️

[@isahannah2680]

@@PlayHookywithMe I try my best to always be safe every single Moment im in 😅

[@courtneytrent9259]

I like working with the cakes but they do collapse toward the end, won't go to the dollar store and get a small bucket or bin for those projects to keep the yarn in while working it. I put the skein in the bottom and the worked yarn on top when not working it. Keeps it together and I don't have to move the unstable cake around too much. If I move rooms I take the whole bucket or bin. Also keeps the project together for me. If there is room I will keep an extra skein in there

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Great idea!

[@asaldanapr]

I definitely agree that a yarn wider is the best thing for me at least.

[@kayceegreer4418]

I didn't see this happening and maybe I wasn't paying total attention but my way of going faster is to use my left, yarn holding hand an awful lot to basically fold my project over my hook and that pretty much puts the yarn right where it needs to be to be grabbed by the hook coming back through I hope that makes sense I don't know if I can say it any better. Okay here goes, I'll try saying it this way: I call my left hand my "thread thrower" whenever I'm teaching people to crochet and with a little flick of the wrist I "throw" the yarn, placing the yarn over the hook where it needs to be, because I had broken my right elbow before. Twisting it hurt for years, So this is an adaptation. Likewise ,while holding my index finger up [as opposed to using my first finger to hold my work, as so many others do in videos, I hold it with my middle finger, like you and as many instructional booklets do] , with thread coming across it, I began use the same flick of the wrist to place the space my hook is supposed to go in next, over the hook and the yarn is divinely in place for the hook to grab it and pull back through. I had the misfortune to break my left elbow too, So I use different techniques, either holding the hook in an modified, upright pencil grip ~ it's really not exactly like a pencil, it's more like you're trying to use a teeny tiny screwdriver on something that is laying on a table. I don't necessarily keep my work absolutely straight in front of me, it could be hanging cockeyed like when you're trying to put stitches in your chain for that first row because you don't know how to use that magic trick yet, I think it's called foundational row, that will put chains + stitches in together like you're paving your own yellow brick road to the magical city. I might actually be working my stitches sideways. And maybe pulling them straight up . I don't have to have my work oriented straight up and squared in my vision [when teaching my mother I had to keep the work absolutely oriented a very precise way or she would get lost if the work was sideways or tilted a little]. I know the stitches and I know what I have in my mind to do and I know that my tension is going to be right on point because I've practiced stitches too many years of frogged works for them not to be. My stitches are so straight i dont even have to block my work ~ stitches will be straight up and down and squared through every wash. Nanoeconds saved over time, become minutes, and hours.

[@demrelli]

❤ i crochet same as i knit😮.. left hand thrower and squisher tooo❤

[@barbaraward9601]

I try to make myself slow down! I find as I work on an easy pattern, I tend to speed up more and more. Then my fingers ache. I’ve decided there aren’t any “crochet police” and I can basically do what I want!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Haha there you go 👍🏻 💕

[@demrelli]

I crochet like a knitter, cos thats where i started my journey, some weird pencil/knife hold hybrid.. and as for crochet your stitches over or under.. geez well i do both !!! Don't stick my finger up for tension etc etc, either way everything turns out fine😊 so yes i too do not believe in the crochet police.lyou do you.❤❤❤❤

[@sammylincroft]

If your finger starts getting sore from yarn burn wrapping some tape around the finger can speed things up a lot! It does mess with your tension a bit so pay attention. Also very good hack for grippy yarns. If the yarn is too slippery a fabric bandaid will provide better grip.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Great tips!

[@chelseaalexander2731]

I put my yarn ball in a box, currently using shoe box. It can roll around as much as it wants... in the box :P Never thought about how dry my hands were though, very helpful!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

That's a great idea! 😀🙌🏻🧶

[@ImTheSeagull]

I tend to do the knife hold for my hook, and I use my index a lot to just hold the loop on my hook, I find it easy and still gives me flow with less mess ups of the loops falling off. I can be just as efficient without holding that loop but it’s now because muscle memory and comfort. I haven’t found it giving me any stress or pain either but I also don’t crochet all too often.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love it !

[@MangoJet408]

A lot of these tips I have had to learn the hard way! My favorite hooks to use are the furls ergonomic acrylic hooks. I hold my hook like a knife and I prefer the long neck of those hooks. I love this video, you gave very good advise that I wish I had when I was first starting!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you so much 😀💕🧶

[@juancena1259]

Instead of a yarn bowl i use a rectangular plastic bin much larger than my yarn ball, it is sturdy and smooth with no snag spots, and since its larger the ball can flop around freely. It works really well. I generally can never find the center tail pull so i almost always use the outer one. Lol

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful 👏🏻💕

[@juancena1259]

@@PlayHookywithMe thank you for sharing all these good tips. I have not experimented with holding my hook in different holds, i think i'll try. One thing I sometimes have a bit of trouble with that slows me down is snagging on the yarn overs in half double, double and treble crochetes. Slowing down sorta works there lol but i watch vids of people who can do those smoother and faster than butter on a hot skillet with a touch of envy 😅

[@coloursinnature5484]

Thank you so much.

[@gaylegordon5797]

My share in "yarn wrangling": I do re-wind, used to by hand but got a ball winder and it is great but watch how fast you try to wind up those balls...you can end up with a cone shape instead of a ball and the cone will quickly collapse into a string of spaghetti. No yarn bowls for me. They didn't work and slowed me, plus sometimes with speed the ball would sail right out of the bowl. MORE EFFICIENT: I bought several of those LARGE BULK SNACK PLASTIC "BOTTLES" (usually corn puffs or pretzel-I think you've seen them) Once the contents are gone I give it a GOOD WASH and then may skein or ball goes right in there. Balls don't roll away, skein feed a little better even as they get down to the last yards. AND bonus...because they are mostly enclosed it keeps pet hair and other stuff from mixing in. I DO NOT cut a hole in the lids to be a feed. For one thing it will create drag and it will fray fibers. the best thing is to keep the lid to use when stopping for awhile and storing. It will hold your yarn and your hook (or needles) small trim scissors, markers, blunt needles, and even your instructions. Best little trick I know and happy to share. Hooray for HAPPY HOOKERS. ;-)😏

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Love that idea! I know exactly what you’re talking about … I’ll definitely get that and give it a try … I can see how the height of the sides would make up for the bouncing around the ball makes as you unwind. 👍🏻 awesome !

[@tondilayohardnet8593]

I like idea relaxing relief stress take time always

[@Nessasaurousrex]

Great tips, also shout out to the H💿l💿 Tac💿 hand cream!! 💿

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Always! Love it !

[@Loridye3605]

All great advice. This helped me out a lot! Thank you for sharing!❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

So glad 😀❤️

[@catherinemelnyk]

Really good information and well presented. Thank you.😊

[@gatorkitty76]

Great video! I started using stitch markers every 10th stitch on bigger projects. I was making a potholder that had 90+ stitches in the last round. I'd go to count at the end and find i had too many or not enough stitches, frog the round, and start over. After that i started putting a stitch marker every 10 or so stitches!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Awesome! 😀🙌🏻

[@eliotb.1219]

Omg this is such a good idea, thank you for sharing!! I shy away from making projects that require longer chains simply because of the count issue

[@Iamlynie1]

Thank you for sharing this, I love the way your cats help out 😁❤️

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you , they love crocheting as much as I do, I think 😆🧶💕

[@Iamlynie1]

@@PlayHookywithMe you are probably spot on there 😁❤️

[@quinnmunc396]

This was a great video thank you!

[@delreroberts5121]

I also make notes for myself. Almost exactly like yours 😮

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Hahaha that’s great!! 🙌🏻💕

[@shelly_lolz]

for me the way i hold my yarn is the bunny ears way i clip it in between my pointer and middle finger and it works nicely on me!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Excellent ✌🏻🤗👏🏻💕

[@jjenkins6074]

i use the knife hold but I hold with my pinky and ring to keep my index and thumb free to adjust my yarn, I also crochet with my left hand lol

[@karenduncan1222]

Love the blanket you are working on, please could you share the yarn and colours? Thank you for all your videos, you have really helped me as a beginner

[@PlayHookywithMe]

This is StyeCraft Special DK yarn and you can find it online at Lovecrafts.com www.lovecrafts.com/en-gb/p/stylecraft-special-dk?a_aid=8b0940e3 Colors: Pistachio Meadow Cypress Violet Lavender Wisteria Clematis Cream Soft Peach Candyfloss Blush Pomegranate Fuschia Purple Magenta Plum

[@karenduncan1222]

Thank you so much!

[@kirynmarquez9847]

The holo toco lotion was great, I love Christine 💀

[@PlayHookywithMe]

🙌🏻💕

[@lilabrownexo4691]

Instead of a yarn bowl, I've found using an almost closed backpack works well! I weigh the bag down with some random heavy things, usually some rocks, and then the yarn ball can moved around in the bag freely. Then I just leave a little opening in the zipper for the yarn, and because I'm pulling it from the top, it doesn't get stuck like with a yarn bowl. Gravity just pulls the yarn ball down away from the opening

[@PlayHookywithMe]

What a great idea! Love it! 😀🙌🏻💕

[@NomadDepths]

I put my yarn in my backpack and fed it thru the hole they tend to put now for headphones

[@RosaMaria-ti3ql]

Tank you for your video I love your blanket ❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you !

[@lindamercer1736]

Hi Roz, LOVE this blanket. A question please, could you do or have you done a video showing how to put a cluster border around your blanket once all squares are joined? I am trying to look at the blanket in this video. Thank you. Linda x

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Can you add a timestamp on the blanket you’re referring to? When in the video do you see it?

[@lindamercer1736]

@@PlayHookywithMe if you go to 7.39 timestamp you can see the lovely border around the blanket. I have a feeling they are just clusters on every row, until you reach the size blanket you require?

[@PlayHookywithMe]

@lindamercer1736 ok I see . Yes, it’s just the same clusters as the body of the blanket. 👍🏻💕 I worked it in rounds - just going around and around and around . After some rounds I joined some small granny squares and then started going around and around with clusters.

[@kathybaker6798]

Thank you for sharing

[@gramcracker2023]

Super helpful video and advice!! Thank you!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thanks so much 😀💕

[@gramcracker2023]

@@PlayHookywithMe Yw🌻

[@Phillia_crochet]

I was taught to hold the hook in the pencil style. When I switched to the knife style, I found my right hand got less strained as the movements are deposited to the left hand and more on the entire arms which are stronger than just my right hand and its fingers. I could crochet more frequently as I use my right hand a lot to write and do other work. For controlling the yarn, I put it in my crochet drawer, backpack or just put it in a hanged bag.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful! 😀💕

[@TheBadArtChannel]

This is excellent stuff, even for a beginner like me

[@PlayHookywithMe]

So glad! 😀

[@healingsprings11]

Your work is so beautiful and consistent. 💃🌺❤🌺

[@healingsprings11]

Your cat is handsome. I have 3 blk. Polydactyls 😺

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you so much on both - how lovely ! 🐈‍⬛ ❤️🐈‍⬛❤️🐈‍⬛