Yarn Over vs Yarn Under for Amigurumi | Single Crochet - YO vs YU for Crocheting Toys

[@allyson5712]

Here’s a third option for a single crochet when making amigurumi: use yarn-under when pulling up the loop, but use yarn-over when pulling through both loops. This will still give you a denser, crossed-looking stitch without having to fight with pulling a yarn-under through both loops. Hope this helps, happy crocheting 💕

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thanks for sharing!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@allyson5712]

⁠​⁠@@EliseRoseCrochetHi! You’re welcome. I realize now that others had already said basically the same thing, didn’t see those comments at first 😳 anyhow, just wanted to share that variation because I also have wrist/joint pain (CTS and Lyme disease) and that method got the crossed-stitch look without the strain. I really like your channel, going to subscribe! Thanks for putting out great content! Blessings 💕😊

[@Loubuca]

I was doing this without knowing ;u; I'm very much a beginner, and I came to this video to figure out what I did wrong, and how to fix it. To see which kind I should use. I'm very happy that it's not "wrong" that I've mixed them!

[@karenmaddox1212]

What I do! I use this for amigurumi and slipper socks/booties.

[@xxSydneyFox]

Heh! I've been doing that too without knowing lol it's just most comfortable 😅

[@meghanspeed2480]

I’m team “I have no idea what you’re talking about” but I’m excited to learn!! 🙈🙈😂

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Lol! That's a good team to be on! Thanks, Meg! 🦞🦞🦞

[@ndianne88]

Hell yeah Meg!! Yees!! Im right there with you! Im just hearing about this just when i thought i knew most about crochet and amigurumi 😂 there is always something new to learn. Thank you @lepetitsaintcrochet

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

@@ndianne88 Haha! There is always something new to learn! That's what makes it interesting!

[@namevale8835]

Same!

[@patportran4683]

Meghan, that's probably because you didn't have a qualified instructor who understood these things!

[@rachelhansen2417]

Apparently I’m team blended. Yarn under for the initial grab, over for the loop that completes the stitch. I just completed a toy with the complete yarn under technique, and it looks pretty much the same. I think I’ll stick with my blend because the initial grab is much easier for me and the pull through is one of the harder parts with the yarn under technique.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thanks for sharing!! It seems like a lot of people do a blended stitch as well! ❤️❤️❤️

[@ramblr8161]

this is how i naturally ended up doing all my stitches too!!

[@Kiwimaille]

I am starting to be team blended as well.

[@doroteya11]

Can I get the quiz? 🙂

[@barbarah8532]

I didn’t even realize I was doing a blended stitch automatically. 🤯 I keep seeing posts from people talking about yarning under for amigurumi and stumbled upon your video to learn how to do yarn under. Come to find out I’m already partly doing it.

[@pooksdoodle2245]

When I learned to crochet I didn’t think it mattered if the yarn went under or over, so I did it under because that’s what came more naturally to me, now that I know the difference I’ll continue making little x shaped stitches

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's great! 🧶🧶🧶

[@TheOwlQueen]

I apparently have been crocheting yarn under this whole time. That actually explains a lot about my gauge issues

[@suzeenc186]

I switched to the yarn under method and found I had less pain. I would try to make the stitches tight with the yarn over and was wearing out my wrists. With the yarn under method I can relax my tension a bit and it helps my wrists. (Plus the furls hook you recommended!)

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's so interesting! Pulling to make stitches tighter always causes me pain too. Im glad you found a way that works best for you! 🦞🦞🦞

[@louiseparkes2103]

Like most of the comments on here, I’ve never heard yarn under. I self taught crocheting through reading techniques and watching tutorials, and would naturally go to yarn under then correct myself with yarn over, literally almost dropping my work to grab the yarn and guide/through it over my hook! 🙈 Interesting how we all find different techniques more natural. Love from the UK

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It really is interesting! Some people love YU and some people are Team YO all the way! We have to find what works for us as individuals! Happy New Year! 🎉

[@patportran4683]

When 'self-taught', check what kinds of credentials the teacher has!!

[@patportran4683]

@@EliseRoseCrochet It all depends on the type of yarn you are using, and what you want to achieve! Take a proper class!!

[@rachelhansen2417]

I apparently taught myself to do a blend stitch-yarn under for the initial grab, over when pulling the stitch through. It honestly looks the same as the yarn under technique, and just works for me.

[@debbiemac1950]

Well, I never knew there was another way. I learned yarn over 60years ago and will probably continue.

[@YarnSociety]

Ohhhh I'm definitely yarn over but I'll have to try the under! I didn't know it changed the size! Mind BLOWN!!😂

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Haha! Also, a lot of people have commented about a YU/YO technique. You begin the stitch with YU and then finish with YO. It seems to be a quite popular way to do it! Happy New Year!

[@patportran4683]

No, it affects the TWIST --- which may affect the size. Take a class from a qualified instructor that understands all this. Most knitters do not.

[@robinshemela2211]

I am so glad to hear you say yu is hard for you!! I’ve tried and can’t do it either!! I love your videos and think so highly of you and glad to see that it’s hard for you too!! Thank you for your helpful and encouraging videos!!

[@Hellototheworld987]

I'm glad I watched this video. I am a self taught crocheter and it took this video for me to realize I have always did the yarn under technique. I've been crocheting for years and didn't realize there was a difference.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It's so interesting when you find new ways of doing things!! Happy Stitching! ❤

[@patportran4683]

You know, of course, there is knitting yarn, and crochet yarn?? They are made differently... and need to be used in an appropriate manner. You need to take a class from a qualified instructor!!

[@WhimsicalCrochet]

I’ve been yearning under pretty much my entire time crocheting, & I didn’t even notice. I was taught yarn over but yarn under just felt more natural.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It's great for amigurumi! 🧶🧶🧶

[@terriswift1673]

Three years later finding this youtube, I'm going to try the blended method. I've been crocheting and knitting for over 50 years and am a left-handed crocheter AND a right-handed knitter. I am a left-handed person. It is going to be interesting if I can even remember the different stitches. I'm 67 soon to be 68. Wish me luck and prayers. Thank you.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Good luck!! ❤️

[@impunitythebagpuss]

Just like Me! 74 years old now! I had to teach myself to crochet left handed 30 years ago! Learned knitting at my mother's knee...right handed! I just read crochet books for right handed patterns and reversed everything! I can't even follow left handed videos on here! So funny! I throw darts right handed....but sketch with both hands together! Mixed up or what? 😂😂😂

[@megan5614]

Yarn over for me. I LOVE how yarn under looks. Tried doing it for a pattern in one of my Pica Pau books and felt like I was fighting with my yarn! It’s hard to change up once you have that muscle memory. It’s nice to see the two technicians side by side. Your amigurumi in the back are so adorable! Both the knitted and crocheted 😊

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's how I felt as well. I kept wanting to do yarn over!! It just didn't work for me, but I'm glad I tried it! ❤️❤️❤️

[@wnygrl585]

Didnt know what I was till this video. I guess I was doing the YO. Tried the YU and really need to concentrate on making the stitch. I see the difference in the stitch.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

The difference is really interesting! ❤

[@acraftyseason1007]

I am so glad you made this video. I felt the same way when I tried yarning under. I thought I was just weird for not liking the yarning under method. But I crochet tight and it hurt! So no yarning under for me. I love the look in the books, but I dont want to mess with my crochet technique, it took me over 20 years to get it how I want it😂. Thank you for making this video, I love all your videos and all your toys are so cute😁

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thank you so very much! Yarning under works so well for some people and the stitches look so nice, but it does not like me back!! 😅

[@susangibson9123]

For me personally, and I’m very new to crocheting. I’m going to go with what feels most natural which is yarn over to me. As I get more experienced I might try the yarn under.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's a great way to go! ❤️

[@milzdechnik846]

Omg, you weren’t kidding! I’ve been crocheting every day as normal for months quite happily. I’ve just done two days of yarning under, and the pain in my hand this morning is debilitating 🤢 Thank you for the warning.. wish I’d listened!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Ouch! I hope you feel better soon! 🧶🧶🧶

[@nelliebeans5]

Hi from Redfern/ Sydney Down Under I recently got back to Crochet having not done it for Years as my soon to be 10 yr old Granddaughter wanted to learn how to crochet as my hook’s etc are paced away due to recent move and will be moved again I bought us both the same set with the larger hook sizes and coloured handles steel yarn needles stitch holders etc. kits. I looked online for KZbin tutorials on how to teach kids to crochet. I n doing so naturally all Crochet KZbin came up in my feed … lol … So I started watching them to brush up on my technique and came across your site Elise and the dolls intrigued me and other how to sites for beginners. I did see this one about YO verses YU … and watched a beginner how to make Amigurumi ball … I followed along and made my first Amigurumi style ball and tried to YU and found I did it as a Blend and found easier to YO to pull through to finish the stitch … lol … It turned out about the size of your small doll’s head. As I don’t know where my fillers are atm I used cotton wool ball which I teased out to stuff it … lol … so I decided to give to my kitten to play with it and she Absolutely Luvs it … lol … She plays Soccer or Hockey pucks it thru the unit. Not bad for an 80 yr old Nana who hasn’t picked up an old type hook in years

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's wonderful!!! It's great that you're rediscovering crochet!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@catherinegage5597]

I have been crocheting a long time and was yarn over and gripped the hook which really started bothering my hands so I stopped crocheting. This year I switched to yarn under and hold my crochet hook like a pencil and I am not experiencing any pain. I am really loving all the new crochet patterns . Thank-you for such great tutorials.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's wonderful that you were able to continue crocheting! I think I'll try your method next time! ❤️❤️❤️

[@littlemonkeysandme3171]

For the little animals I am team “X” for the single crochet. Though, I go under the yarn for that first one and then the second time I grab the yarn like when you make a V stitch. I do it the same way Yan does hers! So, I guess there’s a third way hahaha. A combination of the two! haha

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Someone else mentioned that combination as well! That would be so confusing to my poor old brain! Lol! 😅

[@brixisomweber2987]

I discovered that third way and thats how i like it.

[@littlemonkeysandme3171]

@@brixisomweber2987 yes! It’s my favorite way of crocheting now! Especially the look at the end, I prefer it

[@mariamarcelaquintanar5036]

I also practice such a combination with very good results.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

@@mariamarcelaquintanar5036 that's so good to know!

[@voyager8148]

I've done YO all my life, as per the instructions in my beginners’ book. When I examine my crocheting-in-the-round closely, I find that each stitch lies between two stitches on the previous row. This is why I get a pronounced leaning to the right in my fabric (I’m right-handed). Sometimes this is quite nice. I made spiral-striped can cozies automatically, which I love. However, I just finished a plaid gnome, and I’m not all happy with the slanting of the plaid. How I wish I had first learned about YU. I find it easiest to do the YU/YO stitch. It appears the same as YU/YU, but it’s easier to do. Wow! The stitches line up beautifully vertically. Can’t wait to make something else in plaid! After all these years, I really have to concentrate on which way I’m grabbing the yarn, but it’s worth it. I'll probably continue to do YO on solid color projects, but it's very nice to have a new trick in my bag.

[@neonsvampen1]

Ive been doing a mix of the two it seems!!! Omg.. first yarn under then yarn over...

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I think that is a great way to do it! 🧶🧶🧶

[@KnittyKitty215]

I just tried this technique and I gotta say I'm a yarn over crocheter. I learned when I was 8 and that was 54 years ago. Yarn under just feels wrong and I just kept messing up. I actually got a more holey fabric with yarn under. The stitches themselves were tighter but there were holes between the stitches. I don't need that for amigurumi.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Interesting! Thanks for sharing your experience! 🧶🧶🧶

[@FarmhouseBC]

I get such delight watching you and your passion. You’re a born teacher. Always love your videos!!!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Awww! Thank you so much, Jersey! I hope you have a Happy New Year!! 🎉🎉🎉

[@patphares6258]

Love your “two cents” and heads up! Words from the wise. ❤❤Thank you Elise.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You are so welcome!🧶🧶🧶

[@allieangel1971]

I think you have me convinced. I will be a Yarn under person as soon as I finish the one anigurumi that I am working on.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's great!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@cherrycoke7328]

I'm so so glad you made this video! I really love the way the stitches look, so I started a practice swatch yesterday with 100% cotton using the yarn under technique. I'm naturally a tight crocheter too, and it was completely impossible for me to make more than a couple of rounds this way. My stitches were SO tight, I couldn't even get my hook in, and I thought my plastic hook was going to snap.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Lol! Right???? It's soooo tight! Will be going back to yarning over from now on! 😅

[@patportran4683]

It all depends on the direction of the original yarn twist. Sometimes this will ADD twist, and sometimes REMOVE it, so be aware. Get proper instruction, or keep your eyes open.

[@pattycrochets2559]

I hadn't made an amigurumi for some time but recently purchased a new pattern and it was suggested to make it using the yarn under method. Searching how to do it brought me to you! Thank you for the through review of the technique. Based on what you mentioned here, I'll stick to the way I've been crocheting. I do crochet tightly, have arthritis in my hands and don't mind the leaning stitches. Added to that we have a lot going on in our lives and I need my crochet time to be less stressful.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I still yarn over and I think it looks great! But it is nice to have an alternative for those who want to use it!❤️❤️❤️

[@playdohcolors]

Love you attitude! I have plates-pins-screws- all over my body including my hands fingers and wrists. I am a person who really dislikes gaps-holes in my crochet as my baby daughter got her fingers daughter and broke them, We have a rare brittle bone disease so this is NOT a typical happening BUT it scared me enough to either crochet tight which hurts like heck or try to find a different way. Hence I came here to you! I am going to try the yu-yo technique and see f that looks good and less gaps and has less pain to my screwed together frankenstein body. Thank you for the time you took in explaining and showing the difference.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I'm so impressed with you for persevering with crocheting! Another thing I've done is to go down in hook size. I've found that also reduces the gaps! Hope it helps! 🧶🧶🧶

[@tonimcguire8588]

I have been making this pumpkin pattern for over a year. It has always given me fits because the stitches left holes using the yarn over. Seeing this video and then trying yarn under for my next pumpkin is a game changer. Yarn under is giving me a nice tighter fabric, I can’t wait to see how this works up once I’m putting it together. Thank you for this video!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's awesome! So glad it was helpful! 🧶🧶🧶

[@neerum5004]

Where were you a couple years ago ? I made a toy and was looking at the other people’s fo and one of them stood out. It was very neat and had little crosses for the stitches. I immediately wrote to the user to find out her technique but never heard back. So sleauth that I am, with my cousin’s help (she is an excellent crafter) we poured over KZbin videos to see if there was another way and found a video exposing the stitch. We both practiced ( I am on east coast, she is on west) and we’re delighted to have finally found it. I made my next project with yarn under and it looked great ! It is slower for me since I have been crocheting with yarn over for over 50 years, however I do like it for Amigurumi.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Haha! I'm so glad you found the video! That's amazing that you have been crocheting that long! #goals! 🍄🍄🍄🐍

[@neerum5004]

@@EliseRoseCrochet not continuously. I learnt on my own from pamphlets and books in early 70s - no crocheting for years, then picked it up again when my first grandson was born.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

@@neerum5004 That's wonderful!

[@kflockhart7673]

Thanks for the great explanation! I naturally yarn over, but I need to make a toy with yarn under technique, and I'm dreading it! Fingers crossed, it will go pain-free.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I hope it works out for you! ❤️❤️❤️

[@ashleyburks4639]

Very very new beginner here, I put a lot of your book recommendations in my Amazon card and I am also shopping for crochet needles. I added the amour 10 set to my cart as well. Will most definitely start off with yarn under as a beginner to get the technique down then do yarn over. Thank you for the awesome videos and 1,000% helpful information you provide.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That is awesome! I think you're smart to start with yarn over first. And you will love the Clover Amour hooks! They are amazing! Good luck to you!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@moonbirdarts8623]

So interesting to read how everyone has their own method and I am so happy to hear that I am not alone with yarn under technique 💖💖💖 thank you for this video❤❤❤❤❤

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You're so welcome! The way we stitch is as unique as we are! ❤️❤️❤️

[@TinaEE103]

I have just finished the little wolf of the first Pika Pau book today and tried the gloves with the yarn under method. It worked well for me and I will use it for my next toy. I hope this eliminates a bit these tiny little holes that tend to come up from time to time in my work. Many thanks for your videos!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That was a great idea because those little gloves like to pop right off! The yarn under technique is so great for eliminating those holes! So glad you like the videos! 🦞🦞🦞

[@dianathorpe2280]

Thanks so much Elise. I have tried the under method and it was just so awkward that I couldn't do it. This old crocheter has been doing it the same way for over 50 years and it was not relaxing for me. I knit and crochet for fun and the under wasn't fun so I pitched it. I didn't give it long enough to see if it would bother my hands. Hahah. Love your videos. I always learn something new. Love the Pica Pau creations you've made. I tried the lion in the new book but I left off the mane and made her a girl and dressed her in the cheetah dress from book 1. Such lovely patterns. I also can't use cotton. I find the acrylic yarn I Love This Yarn from Hobby Lobby to work well for me and it comes in so many colors and a great price especially when it is on sale. Thanks again so much fun to watch your videos. :) :)

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thanks so much, Diana! Yarn under is one of those techniques that you either love it or hate it! It's definitely not for me either. Oh your little lioness sounds adorable! I haven't tried that yarn, but I would like to! Thanks for the recommendation! 💓

[@carolinesimon8538]

Very good content, thank you! I also felt a lot of pain when I started to yarn under, but then I changed the hook size (3 mm instead of 2.5 mm) and that really helped me!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Now that's a good idea! I had never thought to go up a hook size! Thank you for that!! 🦞🦞🦞

[@carolinesimon8538]

Sure! I hope it can help you! 🥰

[@Bradamantermengarda]

Like a few people commented, I use the combination of YU the first time and YO to close the single stitch. I actually find it to be less work for my wrist and my fingers, and I got used to it pretty quickly. Before I started doing that, my problem was that I was overworking my right index finger trying to tighten up the stitches: that was partly due to the crochet hook itself (I had a lot more problems crocheting with a 2 mm than a 3/3.5 hook), but also the "wrapping" movement typical of the YO technique. Now I use the YO just for some garments/accessories because the final look and feeling is a little softer and when you work DK/sport yarn there isn't that much of a difference in the final size, just enough to be sure that the garment won't look too tight on the main piece (I'm thinking jackets, hats but especially jumpsuits). Love your channel, I always end up learning something new!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Oh interesting! I'm fascinated by the YU/YO method, but it makes so much sense. And a 2 mm hook!!! Whoa! I can imagine how hard on your finger that must have been. Makes total sense to do the YO/YO method for garments though. And thank you so much for the kind comments! ❤

[@andreeab84]

I never could yarn over. My wrist can't handle it. The first time I saw someone yarn over it was a bit confused to be honest. Thank you for the video ☺️

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's exactly how I feel about yarn under! My wrist hurts too much! I think it's so interesting that each person finds what works best for them! Thanks for sharing! ❤

[@jennyfersolisb.8355]

When I was in high school I remember being crocheting with a friend and she said "oh, you knit to the other side!". I could see we did crochet different, but I thought it was bc I'm left-handed, and now I learn I've been knitting with my yarn under the entire time! Reading comments it seems that it's not popular haha Thank you for your video!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It really is interesting how we all crochet so differently!! And two of my kids are left handed so I can see why you thought that was the only difference at first! Thanks for sharing! 💖💖💖

[@shannonoliver5414]

I've been doing the yarn under technique ever since i bought the book, Animal Friends of Pica Pau and never looked back. Love your videos. Thank you. 😊

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It really is a pretty stitch! Thank you so much! I'm so glad you like them! 🍄

[@medjinepaul1658]

I’m team “no idea” . thanks for the info . I don’t do much amigurumi because I end up with wrists pain but I love watching others doing it .

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Haha!! Love it!! I always get pain in my wrists if I'm using cotton yarn since it doesn't have a lot of stretch. If I use acrylic or wool blends I'm ok. 🧶🧶🧶

[@claudiamerkel8347]

I’ve tried to yarn under but it was very hard for me to do. I also struggled with really tight stitches that way. I’m glad you mentioned the pain as I thought that was just me doing something wrong!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You definitely weren't doing anything wrong! I think it's a pretty common complaint with YU! Happy New Year! 🎉

[@NinaKeilin]

I have tried it. It seems harder to pull the yarn through. Difficult to align.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

@@NinaKeilin yeah, that's kind of how I felt. It just never felt natural.

[@rachelhansen2417]

Try a blended technique (YU, YO). It looks the same as yarn under, but I feel like it gives a little more room. Also, it’s a bit more natural than a double YO because you don’t have to twist the hook to get the initial part of the stitch in and it doesn’t catch when you pull through on the second loop of the stitch.

[@alanissalcedo7623]

Omg, thank you so much for talking about this! I’ve heard about both techniques, but since I’m fairly new to amigurumi I’m still in doubt about this!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Since you're new, try both and see what you think. Both have their pros and cons! Good luck! 🦞🦞🦞

[@DawnsDays]

Somebody recently asked me about this and my response was...huh? 🤣 I've seen people YU on KZbin tutorials and just assumed they'd been taught differently like with knitting continental etc. HAPPY NEW YEAR ❤

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It feels totally unnatural for me, but it works very well for some people! The stitches are very neat and clean! ❤

[@yarngoblyn]

And there are also mixed variants. A single crochet stitch has two phases, so you can mix both: YO+YU or YU+YO. There was one tutorial that used YU+YO. But it was more of a mental challenge and I switched back to YO+YO after two rounds.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Now that is interesting! I'm not smart enough to combine methods! This old brain gets confused easily! Lol! 😅

[@maggiem.5904]

Yes, when I first tried YU the instructions I used were to YO with the second pull through.

[@nonopog4681]

I naturally did this… idk what the benefits of this one would be but yeah that’s how I crochet and feel comfortable 🤷‍♀️😆

[@nonopog4681]

I do YU + YO

[@tabytastick]

I had major injury to my dominant hand and could not crochet for 2 years, even after PT. What helped me surprisingly was a $12 hand strengthener and a finger exerciser from Amazon. After just 3 months I was back to hooking with little to no pain.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That is awesome!!! Thank you so much for sharing that! I'm so glad you're able to crochet again!!! 🙌🙌🙌

[@millicentmattoon2019]

I was team what in the world is this. I came to KZbin because there has been a lot of chatter on reels lately about yo vs yu...I hadn't tried it yet and wanted to see how people were doing it. I've almost been crocheting for 50 years, my grandma taught me when I was 5. I hadn't even gotten a half a row done before my left hand started to cramp! Badly, it happens sometimes when I knit if I let my tension get too tight... my middle finger locks down into my palm and I can't move my pinky, it is very painful. Once I got the cramp to subside I went back to yo, which is how I was taught and no more pain!! Even though I love the look of the yu...I won't be able to crochet that way. Thank you for your video! I liked and subscribed!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's how I am. I cannot yarn under! ❤️❤️❤️

[@sarahferguson0]

A few months back a friend of mine was telling me about this. I've tried amigurumi several times over the course of the past 5 years and while cute, I am never really satisfied. My friend thinks I should try the yarn under style and see if i'm not happier with the results. Unfortunately you're not the first crocheter to experience pain. I'm gonna give it a go but i want nothing to do with any joint pain so we shall see. Thanks for posting this.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You're so very welcome. It was really uncomfortable for me so I will not be doing it again. Although there are some amigurumi designers that love it and have no issues with it at all! Hope it works out for you! 🦞🦞🦞

[@sarahferguson0]

@@EliseRoseCrochet after trying for a few hours i've decided it's not for me. Maybe if i would have learned that direction from the beginning but it's a bit cumbersome and i found it hard to relax and get into that zen, if you know what i mean. 😊

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

@@sarahferguson0 I know exactly what you mean! That's exactly how I felt too!

[@solitarelee6200]

Yarn under is quite easier on the hands! (Team arthritis here lol.) I tried doing a round of it on my current project just to see. Totally fascinating! I think yarn over works better for my current projects, but I think I'm going to experiment with this for some of the accessories and what have you.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I think a lot of people do a combo of yarn under and then yarn under! ❤️❤️❤️

[@Zocura]

this is wild, i didnt even know there was a difference. going over the first ball i made, i can actually see now where i did yarn over at points and switched back to yarn under. i learned to crochet as a child and only ever did it on and off when the mood hit me. i guess i have always done yarn under as it came more naturally to me. which i also guess this explains why i gave always had pretty tight stitches and actually had to train myself to use less tension. i guess now that im trying my hand at amigurumi, it's kinda nice that i actually don't have to relearn anything and that my normal tendencies are working in my favor.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I'm so glad you found the information interesting! ❤️❤️❤️

[@MelissaGrimes9371]

I've never heard of yarning under. One of the things I never liked about my Amigurumi projects is the little hole gaps and being able to sometimes see the stuffing. Thank you for sharing this video, I'll definitely try the yarning under technique.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I hope it works for you! It really is a good technique for those who end up with holes and gaps from yarning over! 😊

[@patportran4683]

Oh, there is SOOOO much you need to learn!!

[@dianaschwartz8673]

With practice you will figure out how to not have those holes. It could be your hook size is to big and not tight enough. Don’t give up I love amigurumi so rewarding. :)

[@GemzCrochetingCorner]

Thank you for the info. I love to yarn under because I like how neat it looks with the little x’s.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

They are such pretty stitches!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@gaylelazarus2394]

I never heard of yarning under! I was taught to yarn over from when I was a teen and that’s the way I have always done it. However I was much younger when I did crochet and had no issues with pain or arthritis. I will give a try just for giggles. I have a feeling I will probably stick to the way I originally crocheted. This was quite an informative video. Thank you once again for sharing. I’m learning so much before I even pick up my hooks again. ❤gayle

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's wonderful!! It's so much fun to experiment and try new crochet techniques! 🧶🧶🧶

[@kathylucas9086]

I did a cross stitch effect. You insert the hook, yu and pull through, yo and pull through.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Several people have also said they do a combination of YU and YO! So interesting! 🦞🦞🦞

[@tammymcdanielrowland1581]

this is what I do as well. I really like it this way.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's wonderful!

[@CoffeeandCrochet]

Yeah I prefer this method so much more because it's always the 2nd you that was the hard part and my amigurumi still looks easy better 😄 yu/yo it's the best of both worlds 😁

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

@@CoffeeandCrochet you're right, the second part is the one that is so difficult! I will definitely have to try that method!

[@debwaines3407]

I also do the under then over! Wanted to suggest baoding balls for the hand-wrist-elbow issues. Bit tricky to get going, but really loosens all the bunched up bits. Also poking about on the back of the arm, above the elbow, where it might feel tender can trigger some release

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thanks for sharing! ❤

[@shadowlandsfarmandcreamery5400]

My 8 yr old son wanted me to teach him to crochet, but he was struggling with the hand coordination of yarning over at the time, I think we might give it another try with yarn under and see if that helps... Thanks for the info! Love from Maine, Deb

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That is so wonderful that your son wants to learn. And I hope yarn under helps!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@shadowlandsfarmandcreamery5400]

@@EliseRoseCrochet it has! He's gotten two rows on a cotton washcloth done by himself and he's over the moon! I'd never heard of the yarn under, thank you SO much!❤❤🤸‍♀️🥳

[@karyncleavely850]

I tried the yarn under on some swatches and found that the first part of the stitch - insert, yarn under, pull up a loop - felt awkward in the yarn under method - felt like I was twisting my wrist weird to move the hook to the correct side of the yarn. So I tried a hybrid method. I insert the hook, yarn OVER, pull up a loop, yarn UNDER, and pull through! It feels like a much more natural flow and I like the finished product.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's great! I love experimenting to see what works best!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@DawnRosenlund-cd7sf]

Good morning, I just wanted to thank you for all your help, advice, and sharing your experience, especially with the pain with different stitches, I thought I was going crazy. I have fibromyalgia and have started to crochet to help keep me grounded. Your channel is always AMAZING!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You are so welcome! And you're definitely not crazy! I have to take a lot of breaks from crocheting to keep from having pain! ❤️❤️❤️

[@ATurtle24]

I recently tried a combo on a toy. YU then YO. I liked it and didn't at the same time. It was easy to get in the flow but I have tight tension to start, I really don't need it tighter. I might try it again someday, maybe with plush yarn, but I'm good with YO for the most part.

[@madmommy]

I’m SO glad you talked about the difficulty of getting into the tighter stitches. I’m already a tight crocheter, so knowing this I’ll stick to yarn over!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Good plan! 🧶🧶🧶

[@DollfieMew]

Thank you for teaching me about this. I didn't know about yarn under. I struggle with amigurumi. I try so hard to make tight stitches that I feel like I'm in a fight with my amigurumi. I'm not good at holding my tension. I hope this yarn under will do the work of tight stitching for me. Let's hope it doesn't cause me pain and this can improve my experience. Thanks again!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You're so welcome! I hope the yarn under technique works for you!! ❤❤❤

[@Loosgroov10]

just discovered your channel so of course i'm going through and soaking it all in. This is so interesting to me! I was just making a costume squid hat for my son, and i can see the stuffing through the squid tentacles even though i followed the pattern. i'm just going with it. but re: yarning under, i had the same thing happen to me when i tried relentlessly to teach myself continental knitting. i used to be so frustrated watching people knit a million miles an hour continental while i flick. not only could i never get the hang of it, it actually physically hurt! So i finally told myself to just give up. My way of knitting is actually pretty quick, for the style i knit, and it doesnt frustrate me and hurt. now i am a proud flicker. haha! Thanks for the lesson on yarn under, i definitely never knew about it before.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thanks so much for sharing!! I totally agree, you've got to find what works best for you. And experimenting is the best way to find that out!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@kaybishop3317]

I too suffer with wrist, elbow and shoulder problems and have associated it with crochet. My tension is also really tight. I think I would be team yarn over, but will definitely try yarn under. Love all your work. Kay :)

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I bet you'll be team yarn over as well! Thanks so much and Happy Stitching! 🍄

[@elishasinger6021]

Thank you so much for this video and the presentation. I have been hearing a lot about the YO/YU conversation and have been curious as to the difference. I know that for garments and more wearable crochet I had heard that YU was incorrect stitching but your explanation was very clear and factual. I too have a naturally tight tension and have struggled with carpel tunnel, so knowing your experiences it sounds like the way I’ve been doing it with YO is still the best way for me to go. I appreciate this very much.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thank you! I'm so glad you liked the video! Yes, sounds like YO is the way for you to go! Happy Stitching! 💓🌻🍄

[@nryane]

I already have ulnar nerve challenges on my left elbow, so I likely won’t do YU. (I may see how it looks and feels, but I’m not sure that I will work on my amigurumi consistently with YU. Thanks for your discussion of YO vs YU.

[@debabrams8438]

Hello Elise 👋 I'm a over.but sometimes do both.. when I'm really rushing.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶

[@samantharuebel8932]

Omg I hate the holes! I'm so glad you're talking about the differences, I'm going to keep practicing the yarn under technique. It's harder for me because it's a fairly new concept for me, but practice makes perfect, right?! Lol Thank you so much for all this info.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

That's great!!! Practice definitely makes perfect!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@user-st1ru6kc9k]

Hi Elise Thank you for sharing. I’ve seen both ways written in patterns I just didn’t know it created a difference in the stitches. I’ll try it on the next pattern I see it on - I just hope it doesn’t aggravate the pain in my thumb joints 😢 Take care and stay safe 🙏🏽💗🧶😻

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You're so welcome! It's fun to experiment! ❤️❤️❤️

[@CraftyDragonflyCrochet]

Hi Elise. I used to use the yarn under technique when crocheting Octopus for a Preemie toys, as the stitches had to be very tight so that no fibres could escape. It was hard work though. I do use yarn over now for toys 😊 xx

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Oh, that would be perfect for those toys! It really does make the toy safer so that the stuffing cannot come out! But I can see why you switched back to YO. Happy New Year! 🎉

[@CraftyDragonflyCrochet]

@@EliseRoseCrochet Happy New Year Elise 🥰💜

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

🎉🎉🎉

[@sandrarhule5354]

Wow! This was so interesting! But you could just go down a size. I'm like you , I tried it , but I kept on forgetting to do it !

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Yes! Much easier to just go down a size in crochet hook! 🧶🧶🧶

[@SavyCheeks]

Team yarn under 👋👋👋 I yarn under even when im not doing amigurumi because i think it looks better. I love your channel im so glad i found it!!! 😊😊

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thanks for sharing! 🧶🧶🧶

[@TheMlkMan]

This is an older video but I was interested and watch and I realized I do something a little funny. When I first go through the stitch I yarn under but to finish the stitch I yarn over. I’m self thought so I find it interesting that I ended up crocheting this way but it comes out with a beautiful stitch that’s in between both kinds and I do mostly amigurumi. So strange but interesting 😅

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thanks for sharing! Sounds like you have found what works for you! I think a lot of amigurumi makers do that as well! 🧶🧶🧶

[@jenniveveliverpool8559]

Thanks for sharing I will try , I just start to make amigurumi , here making a little lion for my grandson 👍🏽🌹

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Awww! How sweet! Happy New Year! 🎉

[@jenniveveliverpool8559]

@@EliseRoseCrochet happy new year to you and your family 🙏🏽🌹

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

🎉🎉🎉

[@glendapantley2894]

I have Yan's books. I never knew these stitch differences were a thing until I saw her write about how her sc made an 'X' because she made her stitches yarn under. Lo and behold...my creations have the 'X'...but my second pull through is like the 'V' stitch. It still makes the 'X' though. Pretty interesting! Love your channel! 💗

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Very interesting! So many people have shared the different ways they make a single crochet! I'm so glad you like the channel! ❤

[@andreaschlickbernd4481]

I REALLY appreciate your detailed explanation WITH visual examples!! I just started to learn Amigurumi and this will be SO HELPFUL!! I also shared your video in a beginners crochet group I'm in here on FB. Thank you!!!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You're so welcome! I'm so glad you enjoyed it and thank you for sharing it! ❤

[@melindamassey14]

The KT tape is amazing for pain! Put a patch on the back of your hand it reduces or eliminates pain, depending on the severity. Worth a try!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Oh thank you for that!! Will check it out!

[@flaggov6949]

Facts. Kinesiology tape is the best.

[@julierocketqueen6257]

How interesting!!! I never heard of yarning under before! I can’t wait to try it now 💜💜💜

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It takes some getting used to, but it does look different, which is fun! 🦞🦞🦞

[@encouraginghope7657]

I really enjoy your videos!! Thank you!!! I got both books for Christmas based on your videos! I really appreciate you explaining the differences in the technique because I wasn’t sure when I read it in the book. I’ve always wanted my entire life to be a toy maker!! You’ve inspired me that I can. I am just a simple woman from Tennessee with a grown family also and I relate so much to what you share as a southern lady! Also your videos are beautiful!!! Your videography and presentation skills- you are a natural!!! Thanks again and Happy New Year!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Being a toy maker is the best!! And yes, you can do it!! Where in Tennessee are you from? My husband's family lives just outside of Nashville! And he and I met while we were attending UT in Knoxville! 🍊🍊🍊

[@encouraginghope7657]

@@EliseRoseCrochet Go Vols! I graduated from UTK a long time ago! I’m from the Knoxville area. Thank you!

[@paintnknitter]

I was surprised by the difference in the size between the two. The yarn under is stiffer. I'm working on the frog from the Pica Pau book using Drops Paris yarn. With the cotton and yarn under, it is quite rigid. I like it, but know to get a comfy toy, I may want to use the Berrocco yarn you use.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Yes!! The Pica Pau toys are adorable with YU or YO! I bet it would be pretty stiff with YU and cotton yarn!! ❤

[@deirdrenel2]

Thank you so much for such a brilliant explanation! I'm left handed, but I love your videos; they're so so helpful. Interestingly, I find it a bit easier on my shoulder and elbow (long term injury!) to yarn under, maybe because I'm left handed and my tension is looser- it's that whole back to front thing we lefties have going on.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thank you for sharing!! I actually have two left handed kids!! I find your experience super interesting!! Wonder if other lefties have had the same issues!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@darcypalmer7783]

Wow! This was really eye opening. I'm going to try yarn under because I crochet loose. But I also have pain in my elbows, so we'll see! Thanks.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Be very careful with the yarning under. It is a common complaint for those who experience any kind of pain. 😊😊😊

[@mostlyghostie]

I started crocheting this in January this year and I dropped it off around February or March and picked it back up in the past month. I’ve had carpal tunnel in both hands before, as well as tendonitis, and learning yarn under was actually much easier for me than yarn over. My wrists hurt at first as i was figuring out how to hold my hook and ways to prevent wrist pain, but yarn under has actually been beneficial for my wrists. I can make chains with my off-hand and relieve some temporary repetitive motion from my main crocheting hand. Yarn over also sounds like how yarn under looks so I feel like I have that excuse for learning the “wrong” way lol Plus yarn under saving yarn is the best news of my life since learning knitting uses less than crochet

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I'm so glad it's helping you!! Take care of yourself! 🧶🧶🧶

[@Bromhildy]

Very interesting. Never heard of yarn under. I might do a trial of YU as I have a loose tension. I love watching your videos.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thank you so very much! And yes, if you have loose tension, definitely try it and see which one you like better! 🦞🦞🦞

[@sockerplinga]

I will have to try yarn under. Saw a video about it yesterday, so Im glad I watched yours too, for both the positive and negative aspects of either technique! Thanks for that! :)

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

You're so welcome! It really is a pretty stitch and so many amigurumi makers really like it! ❤❤❤

[@shethasimon3441]

I am yarn over but last project i did yarn under, absolutely loved how the fabric looks very tight, BUT, 😭🥺 make an old injury on my back 16 years ago come back with revenge! Soooo i don't know what to do, i really love the way it look and feel, maybe need more practice! Or do what you suggested do a bit for short time🤔, thank you for lovely videos and Happy New Year 💐🎊

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I personally don't think it's worth causing yourself pain. I actually just tried the combo method that others mentioned (YU for the first part of the stitch and YO for the second part) but it is causing my wrist so much pain. It's just not worth it to me. YO still looks beautiful too! Good luck to you and I hope your back feels better! 🦞🦞🦞

[@shethasimon3441]

@@EliseRoseCrochet thank you, you are right actually, yo is nice too, and nothing worth the pain! Because it will stop me doing other knitting and crochet, thank you for you advice (that i am going to follow) have a lovely and creative 2021 🧶💐♥️

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Happy New Year!! 🎉🎉🎉

[@lyshlysh9970]

Oh! I've tried yarning under before. I thought the smaller size was due to a tighter tension. I didn't think they'd be about a smaller yardage. Like you, I experienced a LOT of pain in my right wrist. I normally don't even feel pain there, plus I wasn't using my ergonomic hooks yet, so it hurt a lot more. If ever I'm going to try it again, it's certainly not in the near future, and certainly with a larger, economic hook.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Yes, I doubt I will try it again. I already have a pretty tight tension, but I know it works for some people! 🦞🦞🦞

[@michelletheron2988]

Never new that.. Great learned something new.... Trying that out with my next toy... Thank you...

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It's fun to experiment which way works best for you! ❤️

[@geyj1]

Goodness me!! I go under and then over!!!! I'm going to try a way that doesn't cause pain in my right hand as I suffer from RA. Thank you for this video, as I had no idea what my way was?! Means a lot

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I think you're the first I've heard doing it that way! I would love to see what those stitches look like!! I have a good friend with RA and my heart goes out to you! 🍄🌻💓

[@sarainava6893]

Ive been crocheting for 8 years and I’ve never heard of YU+YU. I’ve always done YU+YO. I thought everyone did my way. It’s crazy I’ve gone so long without knowing this lol. I tried yarn over, yarn under, and my method to see the difference and my method (YU+YO) looks exactly the same as yarn under. I’ve been x single crocheting my whole life lol.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I love leaning something new about crochet!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@rachelhansen2417]

I do the same!!! I honestly find it the easiest. Glad I’m not the only one with a natural blended technique!

[@phillipbagshaw340]

As a knitter, the YU motion is a LOT more natural for me! It made picking up amigurumi/crochet a lot easier, especially since I'm weird and hold the yarn with my right hand when crocheting, as well. It feels essentially the same as knitting for me because of that, so it has been a lifesaver for learning how to crochet.

[@tjmimi56]

When I first tried the yarn under stitches it was really hard for me to do the second part of the stitches. I corcheted really tight and pulling that second yarn under part was what caused me the pain. My knuckles swelled. I finally got the hang of it and rarely use the yarn over single crochet for amigurumi anymore. However...I recently have seen the combination of the stitch where you yarn under for the first part of the stitch and yarn over for the second part. It is a lot easier and is supposed to make the single crochet look even more like an x. And since that second part is the hard part that can cause the most struggle and pain if you crochet really tight, it is a good solution for that.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I am so glad to know about the YO/YU combo! That makes so much sense! Thank you for sharing!! 😘

[@tjmimi56]

@@EliseRoseCrochet I also discovered that with yu/yu or yu/yo there is less need to crochet amigurumi as tight because it takes care of the hole problem, which was what I was trying to avoid with yarn over by crocheting as tight as possible.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I'm definitely going to try that!! Thank you! 💓

[@SewCool-Ideas]

My gosh it is really relaxing watch your videos ! You are amazing! I bought my Picapau book when I was in Argentina because YOU!! LOL thanks for the inspiration!!!!!

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Awww! Thank you so very much! I'm so glad you like the videos!! The Pica Pau books are amazing!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@diannebarmonde5602]

Love the tips…I do a loose stitch…so perhaps I’ll try the under technique for my amagurumi

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

It's a great thing to experiment with! Happy Stitching! 🧶🧶🧶

[@chiffenok]

You could have tried maybe a bit bigger hook😉 I just really love how YU looks relearned couple of years ago, and never had a problem. of course health is more important! But I was just wondering if maybe not YU itself causing a pain but rather that you got used for YO and it's more natural trained wrist movement for you. Maybe if the person who got used to YU will have similar issues with YO

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I think you're right. I'm so used to yarning over that yarning under feels so foreign! And the next time (if there is a next time) I will definitely use a bigger hook! 😘😘😘

[@AJames1106]

My first thought on this is …. That’s the wrong way to crochet. Only because when I first start crocheting I was doing the yarn under. Someone saw me doing it and said I was doing it wrong and I corrected to the yarn over. Fast forward. I am never happy with my Stuffed animals because the holes are too big no matter how much I size down with the hook or how much I tighten my stitch. Who knew the fix was crocheting “wrong.” Which is how I began my crochet journey. 😂 My overall thought is that this crochet technique would be good for somethings but not all things. I’ll most likely use it in my stuffed animals and dolls but not in other things. Thanks you for explaining this!!!

[@janapennington7567]

Oh, thank you so much! You have the best information. Best learning experience ever from your videos! I had watched you before and now I’m back-Best info- period! :)

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Awww! Thank you so very much!! 🧶🧶🧶

[@tanyarooney3427]

Thank you for this video ! I absolutely agree with you for the stitches being more tight ! I have been crocheting the picapau toys with YU and got so use to it that I did Louise the Bunny from zoomigurumi 2 using YU and it became so much more nicer ! Thank you !Your videos have been such a help for me in absolutely everything to do with crocheting toys :) Happy New Year :)

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

I'm so glad you like the videos! The yarn under stitches do look so neat and clean! ❤ 👠

[@stayathomecichlidmom3579]

Yarn under is a GAME CHANGER with amigurumi. I use Yarn over for almost everything else besides some Home decor projects that need more stiffness. What I've found The hook type is crucial. Inline hooks are a must and holding the Crotchet hook in the "knife Hold" and not moving the working yarn hand, instead reaching and grabbing with the hook, makes it fast and comfortable. IME holding in pencil hold, made it almost impossible. Also working straight out instead of Parallel to your body,keeps them as straight as possible and the hand a wrist movement less stressful.

[@EliseRoseCrochet]

Thank you so much for sharing that information!! So very helpful!! ❤️❤️❤️