Introduction

You followed the pattern. You counted your stitches. You even watched the tutorial twice.
So why does your finished project look… off?

If your crochet projects keep turning out wonky, stiff, or just not like the pictures, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with a few projects under your belt, small mistakes can make a big difference. Luckily, most of these issues are totally fixable with a few simple adjustments.

Let’s dive into the top five reasons your crochet project doesn’t match the pattern—and how to fix each one like a pro.

✋ Your Tension Is Too Tight or Too Loose

The Problem:
Your project feels stiff and curls up—or it's floppy and has holes where it shouldn’t.

The Fix:
Crochet tension takes time to develop. If your stitches are too tight, try consciously relaxing your grip and loosening your yarn feed. If they’re too loose, try using a smaller hook or adjusting how you hold the yarn.

Pro Tip:
Make a quick swatch (about 10x10 cm / 4x4 in) before starting your project. It’s boring, but it’ll save you a ton of heartache later.

🧶 You Used a Different Yarn (and Didn’t Adjust)

The Problem:
The color is perfect, but the shape and size are all wrong.

The Fix:
Different yarns—even if labeled the same weight—can behave differently. Cotton, wool, and acrylic stretch and drape differently. If you’re substituting yarn, always check the gauge and consider how the yarn behaves when worked up.

Pro Tip:
Use YarnSub.com to compare yarns before swapping. And always buy a little extra when substituting—just in case!

📏 You Picked the Wrong Hook Size

The Problem:
Your finished item is much bigger/smaller than expected.

The Fix:
Patterns usually recommend a hook size, but that’s based on the designer’s tension. If your project is way off-size, try using a smaller or larger hook until your gauge matches the pattern’s.

Pro Tip:
Don’t be afraid to go up or down a full millimeter. A 4.5mm hook versus a 5mm hook can make a big difference in drape and size.

🚫 You’re Skipping (or Adding) Stitches

The Problem:
Your square is turning into a triangle. Or a wonky blob.

The Fix:
It’s surprisingly easy to miss the first or last stitch in a row—especially in turning chains. Use stitch markers at the ends of rows to stay consistent.

Pro Tip:
Count your stitches every couple of rows. A quick check-in can prevent an hour of frogging later.

🧼 You Didn’t Block or Finish Your Project

The Problem:
The project looks messy, even if the stitches are technically right.

The Fix:
Blocking helps your work lie flat and hold its shape. Especially for lace, squares, or garments, a good block can elevate your project from “homemade” to “handmade masterpiece.”

Pro Tip:
For most yarns, gently wet the finished piece, pin it to shape, and let it dry. For acrylic yarn, you can try steam blocking for better results.

🌟 Bonus Tip: Don’t Compare Your First Draft to Someone’s Final Photo

Pattern photos are usually made by pros—great lighting, perfect styling, and possibly a few edits. Your version is real. It’s handmade. It has heart.

If it didn’t turn out exactly right this time, don’t sweat it. That’s how you learn.

🙋Q&A

Q: Why do my crochet squares keep curling?
A: You might be using tight stitches or the wrong stitch count. Try blocking or adjusting your hook size.

Q: Can I fix bad tension after finishing a project?
A: Somewhat! Blocking can help even out minor tension issues, but it won’t completely fix large inconsistencies.

Q: Is it okay to change the yarn or hook in a pattern?
A: Yes—but always swatch and adjust your gauge to match the pattern’s recommendations.

🧶 Final Thoughts

Crochet is part skill, part art—and like anything creative, it takes patience and practice. If your project didn’t come out picture-perfect, that’s okay. You’re learning, you’re improving, and most importantly—you’re creating something with your hands.

Keep going. The next one will be better. And the one after that? Might just look exactly like the photo.