Many people are tempted to skip the crochet test - because they wonder if it all fits just right? Believe me, I've been there many times. Once you fall in love with a design, you just want to get started! Unfortunately, this can result in your finished project not being the right size - and that's just one of the worst things. Although it may seem both boring and unnecessary, a crochet test is an incredibly important part of following a crochet pattern.
But what does that actually mean?
The purpose of making a crochet sample is to ensure that you crochet with the correct crochet tension. The crochet tension is typically stated in 10x10cm and indicates how many rows and stitches you get per 10x10cm. It is thus a help to you to ensure that you do not end up with a result that is too big or too small. Crochet samples are particularly important to make when you are going to crochet clothing, because otherwise you risk ending up with a completely wrong size that does not fit you or the person you are crocheting for.
A crochet sample is your assurance that your finished result will be as you want it - both in terms of size and texture. If you are trying out a new type of stitch, the crochet sample is also a good place to get familiar with the stitches.
Below are my best tips for making crochet samples ♡
1. Make the sample larger
When you make a crochet sample, you should always make it a few centimeters higher and wider than the specified crochet tension in the pattern. This way you can measure in the middle of the sample rather than from edge to edge. The sides may give slightly different measurements. You will therefore get the most accurate overview by making your crochet sample larger, so that you can measure your 10x10cm without including the sides. You do this by simply adding a few extra stitches and rows than stated.
2. Use the crochet tension specified in the pattern
Although many yarns actually only have a knitting tension stated on the label, you will also occasionally find a crochet tension stated. However, this is never the one you should go by when making your crochet test. When testing the crochet tension, you should always use the measurements and stitches that are stated in the pattern you want to follow. This way you ensure that your result will be as intended in the pattern.
3. Adjust your crochet speed
If your crochet sample turns out to be too big or too small, you should adjust your crochet tension. This is easiest to do by changing the size of your crochet hook. If your sample is a little too small, change to a larger hook, and if your sample is a little too big, change to a smaller one. If the size of your sample is far from what it should be, you may have chosen the wrong yarn compared to what is recommended in the pattern. In that case, you should choose a different yarn.
Enjoy! ♡