Make a PERFECT Starting Chain and WHY it Matters 🧶

[@PlayHookywithMe]

In this video I share 3 ways you can improve the look of your starting chain dramatically and why this is SO IMPORTANT to the overall look of your projects. Which way is your favorite? Mine is #2

[@simplymadebyhand]

Thank you for sharing 😊 Everyone who isn’t subscribed needs to this woman is so talented ❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Oh my goodness, too kind of you, thank you 😀💕

[@jennierollins8789]

I totally agree ! 🌍☮️🌲

[@kat369-mine]

My mother is 83, I'm 62. She's been trying to teach me crochet for 50years. My main problem has always been to tight stitches. That first chain is Murder. We found your video and our minds are blown. I guess you can teach an old kat new tricks, and learn something new everyday.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Your message has made my day! Love it- so glad it helped 😀👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🧶❤️

[@OneTrueWord1988]

Wow, your Mom is a very determined person! Doesn't give up for 50 years! 😊 Please give her a hug for me. ❤💐♥️

[@decalpals8496]

Thanks SO much for these tips. This has been a real problem for me and I've been crocheting, off and on, for decades.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

It’s crazy what a difference it makes 👏🏻💕

[@decalpals8496]

@@PlayHookywithMe My latest foray into crochet has been to do Tunisian crochet. I like the physicality of crocheting but the fabric of knitting. Certain stitches of Tunisian crochet give me the best of both worlds. That's where I learned the technique of crocheting in the back hump of the starting chain. I will definitely do that even when I do classical crocheting. Do you do Tunisian?

[@jennierollins8789]

Again this is such good advice. I had this very problem crocheting. I could not figure out what I was doing wrong. One day I was watching a video that gave the same advice. Changed everything for me with crocheting. It made everything look better and took the frustration that I was feeling away. This is a great video and will help so many crocheters. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. 🌍☮️🌲

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Yay 😀 I’m so glad you can confirm this works … the stress reduction is massive, yes 🙌🏻🙌🏻🧶❤️

[@jennierollins8789]

Absolutely! 🍁🍁🍁

[@mardiread7155]

I have been having trouble with th chain as well

[@juditrotter5176]

Thanks for responding about how easy it is to create a d sign.

[@HobbiCROCHET]

Great advice! Thank you 👍

[@PlayHookywithMe]

🧶💕😀

[@tiahill832]

Thanks so much for sharing! Have a wonderful day! ❤😘😊🧶

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you , Tia, you do the same 😀💕

[@angelaharris1112]

Thank you. I always forget this! 😊

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Me too 😅💕

[@evag5041]

These tips are just what I need with a blanket I keep starting over because it curves just like your example. I have learned many helpful things from watching you. Thanks so much!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful! So glad it helped 😀💕🧶

[@user-st1ru6kc9k]

Hi Roz, Thank you so much for sharing these tips! They are all amazing…I’ll need to go rewatch your chainless stitch just before I start making a baby blanket that I’m making for my baby niece. I’m currently using the larger crochet hook for my chains for a blanket I’m making the pattern designer has written in the pattern. I like the look of going into the back bumps but can never remember to try it! I will put it on my to try list. I appreciate all you do for this community. Take care and stay safe and warm. God’s blessings 🙏🏽💗😻🧶🐶🦋

[@PlayHookywithMe]

So glad you found value from the video! I forget to use these too but when I do , it makes such a huge difference! 💕👏🏻 enjoy your baby blanket project 💕

[@user-st1ru6kc9k]

Thanks Roz 💜🙏🏽😻🧶

[@dorothymorris1680]

Thank you for the tips!

[@libbylandscape3560]

Thank you for these tips! I use #3 which I discovered from another KZbin channel that I don’t think is here anymore. My understanding is that it’s a Tunisian stitch, tho I could be wrong. What I love about it is its elasticity, and never having to fight with the tightness of the single chain beginning which I could never get right. 😅

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Yes! It very well could have Tunisian origin, makes sense. It’s a game changer once you get the hang of it ! 😀💕

[@ShettikkaWoods-jl8iq]

I have to agree 👍🏾, doing in the back bump improves the overall outcome 😊 and the chain less foundation ❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I’ve only recently started going into the back bump and I absolutely love the finish it gives 💕

[@impunitythebagpuss]

I only recently started using the back bumps and it's a great tip!

[@jennierollins8789]

🌍☮️🌲

[@LUCKEY11202.]

This is so helpful, thank you,for this information and for sharing your time.❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you 💕

[@gsdmom1194]

I ❤ Love that you gave choices for different skill levels !!!! I learned to crochet 48-49 yrs ago in 4-H. I was taught to keep my chain loose, but I have had projects when I was younger that came out funky anyway because maybe my brain continued to crochet more loose than it should have. Years ago, I tried using a larger hook, and that worked pretty well. I am going to try the other 2 methods because they make the esde look so clean!!! Thank you for the tips.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

That is awesome! Thank you so much for your feedback 😀👏🏻💕

[@ShettikkaWoods-jl8iq]

Good morning 🌄🌞 blessings ☕

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Have a wonderful week, Shettikka ! ☕️ ❤️

[@kristenfay5083]

Great tips. Thanks so much

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you 😀🧶

[@CeeceeWhip]

Always love to crochet in those back bumps. So much easier than trying to poke at 2 loops. I just learned that technique you mentioned in making the initial chain with 2 rows...It makes that first chain look nice and MARVELOUS 🎉❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Yes! It solves so many issues at once! 👏🏻💕🧶

[@martinezveralucia1582]

Thank you ❤

[@maryb6872]

I have tried just chaining more loosely with the original size hook but after a while I see I am reverting to chaining too tightly again! I will try all of these techniques to see which one works for me. Thank you for your advice.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

It’s so hard (for me anyway) to try and work loosely with the hook. They aren’t consistent and like you , mine just end up tight again 😂😅💕

[@ScarlettBuchholz]

Ty this is so helpful 😊

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Oh, good 😀👏🏻💕

[@heatherjohnson6722]

Helpful!

[@dianne8929]

Great info 👍👍

[@Jenny-qj3qo]

Thank you so much for more amazing tips and tricks. I have used all the ones that you have posted and it’s changed my crochet so much - for the better!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

That’s wonderful, I’m so glad you are getting use out of the videos 😀👏🏻💕

[@sharonopstbaum1023]

Larger hook is an easy enough fix. Will try that tip first! Thanks for all you teach me.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Yes , easiest and solves so much ! 🙌🏻💕

[@angelabirkett9671]

Spot on

[@itsmelaura1533]

I definitely like the look of #2 best. So I need to use a larger hook for the chain and then use back bumps for my first row, got it! Thank you very much! This video popped up just in the nick of time as I want to make a queen size bedspread. My largest project to date! I kept ripping out my first attempts because I wasn't happy with the results. I hit notification bell (already a subscriber) so that I don't miss any videos. Wish me luck!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Ah, I’m so glad it came at the right time for you. You’re going to love that combo for #2. That’s right , larger hook for the chain , then regular hook for the rest , starting row 1 in the back bump 🙌🏻. Best of luck with your big project ! 😀🧶💕

[@maryt2887]

Brilliant ideas! I have recently started to use the back bump of the chain for my first row, but it will be easier to see if I make the chain with a larger hook. I will also check out your video on the chainless foundation. Many thanks for all your tips!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

That bigger hook works a treat for this for sure. Definitely my new favorite combo to get that edge straight 😍

[@happyhome41]

Watching this for the fourth time - repetition Mother of Learning ? I mentioned before the ‘chainless’ [not true, you speak truth], that I could not readily identify the insertion points for the next stitch. Now I will try the “back bump” - and I’m sure you’re right about the yarn - this Wool Ease is extra fuzzy, with little fibers that get caught in the wrong places, and easily parted when one doesn’t place the hook just so. Thank you for sticking with us !

[@PlayHookywithMe]

It can be a bit tricky sometimes, I know! 🧶💕

[@adriennewest7712]

Thank you! I am always having trouble with the first chain too tight and I'm so pleased to see someone else crochet the same way I do!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

So glad ! 🧶❤️

[@cherylherrera6917]

Thanks so much, beautiful.❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you ❤️

[@jenreeves7684]

Thanks, I've actually tried all these methods. It makes a difference in what I'm making to which method i use.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Great point! 🙌🏻💕

[@jennierollins8789]

I agree with you on this. Such powerful info for the beginner. It took me years to learn it. Makes such a huge difference in your work. ☮️🌎🌲

[@BobbieJeanM]

Simple but genius especially for a beginner! 👍

[@jeanbean9797]

I’ve used going up shook size and the chain less foundation , which I really like. I may try the back bump just to see if I like it. Thanks for the tips!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I’ve fallen in love with the back bump combined with the larger hook. It works that bottom edge beautifully 😍 I’ve never bothered with the back bump either but definitely will with the appropriate projects 💕

[@madmommy]

Fantastic! I have started using the larger hook size for my chain method and it works very well. The only thing I struggle with is that first chain/stitch being a larger hole after working my first row back into the chain (the one closest to the slip knot).

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I know what you mean … here is a way you can fix that … you can retighten the slip knot to close that gap. Here is a video that shows what I mean : Foundation Row Hack kzbin.info/www/bejne/pmnZYqt7e9KXa68

[@impunitythebagpuss]

Thanks for this info!

[@cynthiajones1461]

I've crocheted for almost 50 years and never have heard any of these tips, except for using the back bump (but they failed to mention how to count the bumps). Your tutorial was short (thank you!) But you covered everything so well. I have subscribed and hit the bell and can't wait to watch more.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I’m so happy you found the video useful! Thank you for subscribing 💕

[@lorraine392]

Thank you for this very informative video!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you 😀💕🧶

[@juditrotter5176]

I had troubles with this too. Trying to create the chain needed to create the final design. Happy knitting!

[@gracegoodenough5895]

HA! I have been doing this for ages! Little did I think it was the right way!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

GURLLL, you are doing it the right way and the smart way! 😀🙌🏻🧶❤️

[@jgraef919]

Excellent explanations, Roz. I have always liked the clean edge look. The Bump!!!!!🐪It looks so much neater and tidier. What I really need is to find a way to remind myself to start a project one hook size larger. That's a toughy!! 🤣 Great video. 💖, Joan

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I know what you mean! 😆🙌🏻💕

[@ElizabethJonesEliza]

I love the chainless foundation and use it whenever I can. Recently, I was adding a sash to the front panel of a top, and it was important that I finish the sash in three rows, ending against the front panel. This forced me to make, and then work into the front side of a 160-link chain. I struggle to work into a chain, even on the back bars, which is my preferred method. Next time this situation presents itself, I'll try your larger hook trick!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

The bigger hook makes such a difference 💕

[@bolynn9668]

Love this! Thanks so much from 🇨🇦 .

[@maryt2887]

Thanks for your excellent videos!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

MARY, thank you so much 🥰 too kind 😘😘😘 I will enjoy Starbucks this week and think of you ☕️🥰

[@angelabirkett9671]

Good morning Roz... I really appreciate this video because I realised a long time ago that when crocheting a blanket or lap rug the beginning row always looked tight , so I started making the beginning chain a bit loose to even out ; but your technique is spit on and I will definately flow your lead next time . TFS and have a great week .

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you so much , Angela… it has been mandatory for me because I’m generally a tight crocheter even on my loosest day 😂😂 Have a great week 💕

[@MaryCochrane]

Roz, Thank You. Love from Ontario, Canada ❤❤❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Thank you so much , Mary ! ❤️❤️

[@caroleunderwood953]

Very helpful!

[@OneTrueWord1988]

Hi Roz - Thanks so much! I've always made my beginning chains looser, and that does help so much to keep everything nice and straight. I did not, however, know about the back bump method - that is SO GREAT! I love how it looks, and will be using it on various projects. Also want to try the chainless foundations. 😊 Thanks again!! ❤💐♥️

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wonderful! 😀👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻💕

[@merrymuriel]

Thank you for these simple but essential tricks ! 🤗🌈💐😉🇫🇷

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Merci beaucoup 🧶💕💕😀

[@susanreusser4374]

Thx!!

[@misselanys1219]

I have been crocheting since 1968 age 12 and learn something new every darn day! Thank you for these tips. I have wanted to try that back bump thing for a while now. You made it less stressful. Also the chainless foundation which I should use more. I have had projects turn out with that curvature but luckily I have been able to correct it after the fact with blocking which I find to be a pain in the neck and lately have been doing lined eyeglass cases and notions bags for friends and family as gifts so sewing two sides together usually hides the curvatures. I love your channel, your ideas and your creativity. How are those Tulips. I was torn between them and the Clover Amour and settled on the Amours which are a dream to work with but have heard accolades about those Tulips. I learned how to crochet on the original Susan Bates USA Silvalumes and never could get used to those tapereds. Anyhoo, thanks for these tips!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

I’m so glad you are finding the videos useful! I love the tulip hooks …I’ve never had any issues with them. But I’m a huge fan of clover amour too . I’d suggest buying one tulip in your favorite size and see what you think. 💕

[@misselanys1219]

@@PlayHookywithMe I will! The inlines are so fast and smooth vs the tapered. Have a great day!

[@susinok]

Great Tips! I struggle with the first row being too tight.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Same 🙋🏼‍♀️💕

[@trigomargarida]

Thank you ! ❤

[@OneTrueWord1988]

So many great comments! Wish we could all get together to crochet. 😊 ❤❤❤

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Wouldn’t that be so much fun 🤩 💕

[@tessi6886]

Why are the stitches and the back bumps so easy to see on your sample and so hard to see on my own chain 😂 I know practice, practice

[@Bunchaletters]

I do this when knitting. A looser cast on makes a big difference.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Absolutely 🙌🏻❤️ I cast on with both needles together and it has made such a difference. Game changer!

[@imsunnybaby]

in tunisian you have the opposite problem, your stitches shrink! to prevent and treat this, in tunisian crochet i personally go DOWN a hook size for my chain, and chain to the intended length. which means more stitches then you think, but it turns out correct. this helps curling and improves the over all consistency.

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Excellent point, thanks for sharing , that’s good to know 😀👏🏻💕

[@ShettikkaWoods-jl8iq]

#2 and #3😊

[@lisakirk9686]

If I do end up using a chainless foundation row, should I still move up one hook size then the rest of the project?

[@PlayHookywithMe]

No, in my experience, it hasn’t been necessary since you’re taking care of that first row at the same time. 👍🏻💕

[@tracyspencer1960]

My new crochet "COACH"!!

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Awe 😍🧶❤️

[@akorn95]

💖🚀💫✨

[@PlayHookywithMe]

😆💕

[@debrawolleycrochet]

My problem is making like slippers vest etc. Are two large.i need to downsize in the hook world. Blanket and scarfs and other fun stuff don't have a problem

[@PlayHookywithMe]

Yes , the the simplest tweak and most powerful is the hook size. It can be used in multiple ways. Solves so many issues! 🙌🏻🧶

[@tessi6886]

Why are the stitches and the back bumps so easy to see on your sample and so hard to see on my own chain 😂 I know practice, practice

[@PlayHookywithMe]

😆💕