How do I adjust tension?
Change your hook size to change your tension…
If your tension matches the information in the pattern, give yourself a pat on the back! You can just follow the pattern as it is. If not, don’t worry, it’s simple to adjust your tension by using a different hook size.
If you have more stitches and rows than the tension guide in the pattern, your tension is too tight, so you need to switch to a hook one size larger. For example, you might have 22 dc and 24 rows, so try moving up from a 4mm to a 4.5mm hook and make another tension swatch. If your stitch and row tension is only a tiny bit too small (such as one stitch or row), try blocking your square to the stated tension and measure it again.
If you have fewer stitches and rows than the tension guide in the pattern, your tension is too loose so you need to switch to a hook one size smaller. For example, you might have 15 dc and 17 rows, so try moving down from a 4mm to a 3.5mm hook and make another tension swatch.
If your stitch tension matches but your row tension is slightly out, stick with that hook size. In most patterns, the stitch tension is more important than the row tension as you can adapt the length with more or fewer rows. So, if your row tension is only slightly out (such as half a row in treble crochet or one row in double crochet), it shouldn’t make too much difference to the final item.
The above rule doesn’t always apply, however. In patterns that are worked side to side the row tension is more critical, and this should be pointed out in the notes section. It’s always a good idea to check the construction information to understand the direction of working before you start.
To help you visualise tension differences, below are four swatches, each made with the same DK cotton yarn, 10 treble stitches and 5 rows, but each uses a different hook size.
You may need to make a couple of swatches using different hooks before you achieve the tension required for your project, but that’s much better than making an item that doesn’t fit properly! You might also like to try using a different hook of the same size – for example, I find that my tension has to be a little looser with a wooden hook and a little tighter with a metal hook.
Tip When making a tension-critical project, it’s a good idea to recheck the tension after working a few rows or rounds of the pattern.