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Master Tension, Fix Gauge & Ring in the Season šŸŽ„

Tips for smoother stitches, clearer gauge, smarter stash use—and a festive bell pattern to finish your week.

Hey there! Here’s your snack-size newsletter with crochet patterns, tips, tools and inspo 🧶

This week, in keeping with some of the feedback I got on what readers wanted more info on, I’ve found a few helpful pieces on tension and consistency which I’ve included here!

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It’s no good being too easily swayed by people’s opinions. You have to believe in yourself.

Donatella Versace

What We’re Hooked On

If your stitches sometimes look a little wobbly or uneven, you’re not alone! I’ve been there…sometimes it happens when I do a new project. Consistency is one of the trickiest skills to master. This clear, helpful article shares 7 practical tips for improving stitch tension, holding your yarn comfortably, and keeping your rows looking clean. It also has a pretty good comment section too which had some helpful tips from peers. Check it out →

When I first started crocheting, I found ā€˜gauge’ this mysterious, abstract thing that kept coming up in pattern instructions. I still feel that way now at times…That is, until someone broke it down simply and this guide is what I hope can clear things up for you! Learn why your stitches might come out too big or too small, how hook size actually affects your fabric, and the small tweaks that help you match any pattern’s gauge without stress. Check it out →

Before buying more yarn (we’ve all been there…Black Friday sales got me!), this article shows you how to ā€œshopā€ your own stash first. From sorting fibers and weights to planning projects around what you already own, it’s a gentle, practical approach to saving money, reducing clutter, and finally using those forgotten skeins. Ideal for anyone trying to stash-bust creatively. Check it out →

Try This!

Wouldn’t be a newsletter of mine without some patterns or little project for you to try! This sweet little bell ornament works up fast and adds handmade warmth to any tree, gift tag, or garland. Personalize it with colors, yarn scraps, or tiny embellishments to create your own festive twist. Check it out →

Hope you found something that inspired or helped your crochet today!

I’ll be back next week with more info and inspo soon,
Jess

P.S. Need a little extra help keeping your projects organized and frustration-free? My Crochet Planning Toolkit has everything I wish I’d known when I started - from crochet abbreviations, row counter, to project and gift planners. Get it here →