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Written by Jordan Lemley
So, you’re working on a project that is done in the round and your crochet circle is getting wonky. Either it starts to curl up, or maybe you see some rippling, either way you know you’ve made a mistake. Unfortunately, at this point the best option is to frog it and start over.
The first thing I am going to say is… Did you count your stitches? You might be adding too many stitches at the end of the round, or not properly increasing as you go. It’s very important to use stitch markers. We have a few stitch markers in our shop that are insanely adorable! Using a stitch marker will help you recognize the beginning of your row, and are especially great for projects that are done in continuous rounds.
The next thing I would do is check to make sure your gauge is correct, if you crochet tightly you might force the fabric to curl. You could also be using the incorrect hook size for your yarn weight which could also cause curling. Keep in mind that some project may ask you to use a hook size that doesn’t match your yarn, and this is ok, but your project may still curl.
You may also find that choosing a yarn size that doesn’t work well with the pattern causes your crochet circle to get lumpy. For instance, if you’re using a bulky weight yarn in a project that calls for a fingerling weight you might find that your circle is getting a bit curvy. This is the same if you use a fingerling yarn in a pattern that calls for a bulky yarn, now your project is curling. It’s important to make sure you're using the right yarn size for your project.
It is very important to ensure that you are increasing and decreasing exactly as the pattern is suggesting. This will ensure that your crochet circle doesn’t become curly or wobbly. If you try to increase on one side instead of the other you will find that your circle is bowing on one side, and that can also create an issue.
In order to make sure your crochet circle lies flat you need to make sure you have all the right tools and materials. It is also important to make sure you're counting your stitches and following the pattern. If you’re a pro then you probably know that most circles start at a specific number like 12 double crochets, and each round increases by 12 evenly around. Just have solace in knowing that even the most skilled fiber artist still miscounts a round from time to time and has to frog it, so you’re not alone!
Enthusiastic Crocheter of Unique and Creative designs since 2017
