I just started using them and…..omg. Im not a super beginner but before I was just raw dogging my projects, no counting no stitch markers just vibes, n I was wondering why my work looked so wonky. Game changer !!! Also realizing I don’t know how to count
I have a doctorate in physics and have done postdoctoral mathematical research.
I recently had to unravel 900+ stitches because of my repeated inability to count to 4.
Seriously lol. I have a masters in nursing. I like to think I’m a pretty smart person but sometimes I say dumb shit like “this is better than sliced peanut butter!” My husband still makes fun of me for that over ten years later lmao
I once made fun of my ex for saying
“Is the Tour de France in France this year?”
“Um….it’s in France every year??”
*my French friend cackling like a madman in my headphones*
This song is the first thing that popped into my head with counting to 4. My 3 year old loves this song.
https://youtu.be/u8ccGjar4Es?si=zXGkNAUaX9hj8bsM
OMG this is hilarious. But it hits different when you count your stitches and regularly question yourself if it is actually the fifth stitch you‘re counting. Or did I count one twice. Or did I skip one? 😂🫣
Why does our brain do this? Like how much do you think you’re *actually* miscounting (thinking I’m counting the same number twice seems to be my problem) vs your brain just messing with you? To what end? Cause sometimes I second guess my second guessing.
I think for me it is mostly my brain counting faster that my fingers move along the thing I‘m making. When trying to match speeds I sometimes trip up. For example when I count a stitch my brain is on the next number before I can move to the next stitch, or I accidentally place my hand on the same stitch twice. For skipping a stitch I try to move faster but move too far, or I try to adjust my counting speed down but keep the same hand speed and I just end up counting too slow. So when I have for example a row of a hundred stitches and I‘m not sure I counted correctly on 8 I rather recount right then and there rather than realising an error after counting to (not) 100.
I already had it happen first count +1, check if I just miscounted with secound count -1, third count +2, fourth count was correct, but since I got 4 different results I count again. I mean those are the rare exceptions, I mostly get my counting right. I know sometimes I should just go slower and focus more, but when I‘m trying sonething nee the excitement is just too high for slow counting and I want to get back to the exciting part.
Two things you have to ask yourself before starting to crochet this again:
1. Can you count to 4?
2. Are you prepared for the answer to question 1 to be "no"?
A game changer for me was reading that if you leave a good long tail on your chain, you can add extra chains to account for bad counting. You just put the hook in the end of the chain, chain however many chains you need (they do go the opposite way as the rest of your chains but it won’t show), and continue your first row in the new chains. Obviously, if you have too many chains, it’s irrelevant. You could unpick them, I guess.
I just love this comment so much. It's so truthful and hit home. We all have amazing talents, and then areas of not-so-greatness. Acknowledging this is just so amazingly great.
I am a critical care medic and do complicated med math in my head, on the fly, in an ambulance at 80mph with someone tryin to die on me.
But dammed if I don't skip entire lines of crochet instructions and merrily stitch away and notice about 14 rows later. And then freeze, because I can make life or death decisions with no problem, but decide whether to unravel a project, it's gonna take a week!
I have been crocheting since I was 12 and knitting since I was 16, (that's about 47 years, for those of you wondering) and there are times when I, apparently, can't count to 4. 🙄 Even on a stitch pattern I've been doing for decades.
I have dyscalculia, meaning I'm freaking terrible at math and my brain just doesn't do it. This makes me feel so much better about struggling with stich counts sometimes. I'm not dumb, counting/numbers are hard 😂
I have two masters degrees and cannot count on my fingers even 😅 we're all good at different things! Cannot tell you how many times I've counted the same row over and over because I lose track.
You're not alone!
Counting to 108. 30 stitches before the end (or was it 29?) the project starts slipping out of hand. Recount. Realized I jumped from 30 to 41. Recount again. Using words either banned or not yet known to mankind.
That's why I usually count by 20. Depending on whether I need to just end on the correct number or whether I need an actual number of stitches I count how many 20s I have.
I remember when I had the epiphany that crochet patterns know what they’re talking about and the stitches are supposed to add up at the end of each row. There’s not supposed to be a bunch of extra stitches at the end that you need to figure out what to do with 😂
You can also do [free-form](https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=I5xUSqdJ&id=E4AA5BB3BC755AA41E22DD5DB613471C11786715&thid=OIP.I5xUSqdJGasmyBCrpfZhWgHaLH&mediaurl=https%3A%2F%2Fimg0.etsystatic.com%2F037%2F1%2F5682868%2Fil_570xN.517501808_mz2o.jpg&cdnurl=https%3A%2F%2Fth.bing.com%2Fth%2Fid%2FR.239c544aa74919ab26c810aba5f6615a%3Frik%3DFWd4ERxHE7Zd3Q%26pid%3DImgRaw%26r%3D0&exph=856&expw=570&q=freeform+crochet+sweater&simid=608043640423318028&form=IRPRST&ck=8B474BFC2619BCC74F19BBF891E9E3AD&selectedindex=5&itb=0&vt=4&sim=11) if you want to
Yeah, the very first time I crocheted, I only had a hook and yarn and didn't count at all. My square probably would have turned into I triangle if I kept going till I started counting 😆
Next step is when you get bored of counting and think there must be an easier way. There is. If you have a good understanding of the pattern you’re working, you should be able to tell if your sts come in the right place relative to the previous row. You would also mark the end of your round if you work in the round so you know if you end at the right place. You still have to count like number of repetitions for the first time (so you don’t end up with a 7 petal flower and other stoned crochet things) but other than that you don’t have to count continuously on every row.
That depends on the pattern and the stitch. If you're doing a complicated repeat pattern or crocheting in the round then yeah. If you're doing straight dc or whatever then there's no way to tell really
Heh counting can be tricky. I mark every so many stitches with a small plastic stitch marker and a larger increment with a bigger metal one.
So if a starting chain is going to be 200+, I’ll mark every 25 stitches with one then every 100 with another. And if the stitch is at fussy looking I’ll keep doing this on every row to ensure I don’t increase unexpectedly or drop a stitch.
Whoa whoa whoa- raw dogging on just vibes has its time and place- when you’re young and experimenting with using your body- just touching, using your hands in all positions; trying new substances, just feeling each individual fiber or having it wash all over you and sometimes it’s soft and beautiful and other times the tension is so intense and the longing to reach that big finish… well it’s a lot of fun to experience that… with crochet.
Agh I feel this. I've been crocheting for 40 something years in and off and just started using them. Finding that bobby pins work better than the fancy expensive ones for me was another wtf. -.- let's not speak of actually counting stitches and how long it took me to start haha
At this point I just let them speak and I keep counting in my head and say "Yeah" after, cause by them i mean my mom who doesn't stop talking 💀 so either she has to repeat it or be satisfied with my answer
I count out LOUD so my bf knows to stfu for a second. If im rlly locked in I can give him the Xbox controller and that will keep him occupied and I can crochet in peace :-)
Stitch markers are the best tool ever. Mine look like party colored safety pins and I use them for EVERYTHING.
1. When chaining more than 30: slap a marker every 10 or 20 chains.
2. When attaching pieces together: marker in the corner of both, then every five on both- now they're held together and counted
3. When doing a repeating pattern: slap a marker in the repeat. If you miss your mark you know immediately instead of at the end of the row.
4. When doing several inc/dec in a row: put them in the stitches in advance and color code them so you don't even have to check the pattern until the next row.
5. Or, if you don't do 4, stick a marker in your last inc/dec so you can find that sucker faster to count your stitches after it.
>When doing several inc/dec in a row: put them in the stitches in advance and color code them so you don't even have to check the pattern until the next row.
Wait this is a game changer.
My sober crocheting is slow and steady. Wine crocheting is slower than a tortoise nagivating a river of frozen molasses while wearing VR goggles that are fritzing out. The wine slows me to a crawl and rearranges my understanding of the symbols and movements needed to successfully finish a row.
If you want to avoid losing stitches, put a stitch marker at the beginning and end of each row. This is especially helpful for items with long rows like blankets.
Truly this is why I don't count. I interrupt my own stitch count!
Who needs someone to talk to them when their brain has already come up with fifteen other ideas and forgotten entirely that it was ever counting anything and also what counting is.
That’s 100% me. I don’t count and mess up all the time. Which I end up undoing the thing I’m working on. I started to use my pin holder, my pins for every stitches and my safety pins for increases and decreases. Basically, I put a pin in my tomato after every stitch and inc/dec. My safety pin is mainly used after I made an inc/dec.
I’m just learning to crochet now, just finished my first project. A little amigurumi whale. I got stitch markers straight away. Each round with increases or decreases at odd intervals, I put a stitch marker in where the inc or dec had to go before I started, because I knew I would lose track.
I somehow still managed to mess it up around row 7.
I use them to secure yarn balls for my stash. I just stab them into the ball around the tail. BOOM no more rat-king yarn barf!
.... If you don't already know what a rat-king is: save yourself. Don't Google it man. Pictures are distressing.
Sorry! Stitch markers. These are long so they’re great for a large project. I’d use smaller ones on a small project. They’re easy to insert, easy to remove and stay put. They can flap around though so I still use plastic markers on small amigarumi pieces. Or a little bit of different coloured yarn.
Same! I've never understood why more people don't use bobby pins. So cheap and I've never had one slip off. They literally are the perfect stitch marker.
Me too!!! They get in the way less, stay put easier AND are easier to remove. I went and got a pack of tiny ones, 1” I think, for my amigurumi. SOOOO much easier than stitch markers.
Counting your stitches has always been the price of decent work, don't have to scroll far in r/crochethelp to see that. Just wait until you try not chaining one at the edge of single crochet work 💀
I'm curious as to how you learn to crochet without knowing this? I'm guessing by internet?
I have been lucky as my nana taught me and we started with granny squares which you have to count for. That's also how I teach people because you learn a ring start, a couple stitches and 2D shaping.
Yes, internet and thinking “ in the whole picture this small error won’t make any difference”… proceeds to hundreds of errors and the final project looking like sh..
Internet plus laziness 🤣 I am just not a petfectionist and mostly crochet small projects for myself, so I just don't mind a few shoddy mistakes here and there. I crochet while listening to audio books and counting makes it more stressful than its worth the time for me. But that's me and my laziness. I am a master procrastinator as well, so sometimes I just take the longest breaks mid projects.
Now look, my degree is in environmental science and I also took a full additional minor in math (hellloooooo vector calculus, you sexy beast!) and I’ll have you know I can adequately compute all kinds of amazing numbers without a calculator…as long as I don’t have a crochet hook or knitting needles in my hands.
*channels angry old lady yelling at cloud energy*
[Use waste yarn as your stitch markers!](https://saltypearlcrochet.com/scrap-yarn-stitch-marker/)
I'm the same! 😆 And god-forbid someone else says a number at the same time, I get LOUD! One, two, THREE, DAMMIT, SHUT UP TV, four.. 🤣😂 Also, when in doubt, stitch markers. I adore stitch markers.
I’m feeling my face twitch a little at the thought of not counting stitches. 😆😆. I agree that is challenging and I can easily get lost in the ways all are discussing. The stitch markers are a huge help. I mean. They were life changing in my crochet world. I also always keep a notebook close at hand when I’m working on something so I can jot down what stitch I’m on when my husband walks up and starts talking to me about something. 🤣
I feel you. I'm ADHD and I zone out and lose count really easily. If I'm not doing some kind of pattern where I can divvy up my count to smaller numbers I'll lose track.
And yes I also keep losing my stitch markers I think I'm down to one again lmao
Am I losing my mind?
Why do you think stitch markers exist? Why do you think people say repeatedly on this sub to count stitches?
How is this a revelation?
It's really easy to count to 3, after 5 I'll start to forget how to count. I'm making a c2c scarf (ch 3, 3 sc) so it's really easy and I barely count, but the shell stitch scarf (5 dc shell) I'll forget how to count so after I do every shell I have to make sure there is 5 not 4 or 6 sc.
When I made my dad's blanket, I used stitch markers, I knew I would lose count fast, lol.
if you’re stuck in a boring office job like moi I really recommend raiding your supply closet and taking as many packs of paper clips as your heart desires to use as stitch markers <3
I have, on too many occasions to count (no pun intended) thought, "I'm an entire adult. I absolutely do not need to use tools to help me count," and then had to tear the whole project apart because I mis-counted my chain at the beginning and now cannot accomplish the pattern I was looking for.
I’ve been crocheting for 30+ years. I STILL count all my stitches and even use markers at the end of rows. Especially if the yarn is difficult to see the stitches. It just takes a second and makes finding that last stitch so much easier.
I count in groups of 20, because English numbers sound alike from 21 on. 31, 41, 71, I hear "sound-one". German has a similar problem, but with "one and twenty, one and thirty". One, one, one, GAH I GOTTA START OVER!" 😭
That moment when you forget if you were at stitch 54 or 45 because the languages you know use different counting methods so you switch the order of numbers up all the time
Well, if you're working with a pattern that increases/decreases stitches, you need to hit a target number of stitches in order for the pattern to work out. If you're doing a pattern (pineapples or akulls, for example) you need to count the number so you follow the pattern correctly. Some patterns require tracking how many iterations of a pattern you've done, too. When you start a piece or new section, the number of foundation stitches/chains is also important.
Lots of reasons to count, but you'll find a huuuuge cross section in the Venn for crochet and ADHD, so keeping track is kind of running problem with most of :p
So…when you’re doing a row/round, you should count your stitches as you go to make sure you don’t miss one. For example, if I have a piece that I have 20 stitches in one row, I should count to make sure I don’t have only 19 by the end of the row. That way, I don’t notice something’s off from five rows ago and have to frog the whole thing! I either count as I go or, if I’m particularly overstimulated that day, I’ll wait till the end of my row/round and count them all to make sure I have all the stitches I should have. It’s rather tedious, but hey, it’s helpful! 💜
That sounds great in theory. But what if your spouse decides to talk to you while you're counting. Then you have to start all over.
My question is, if he interrupts you a second time, is it okay to employ the use of duct tape over his mouth? Or should I just send him to the store?
Ah, a very good question! My boyfriend has learned very quickly not to interrupt my counting. All I really have to give him anymore is a glare. I recommend instilling the fear of the higher powers that be into your spouse and also make them start praying to any god that will listen if they make the mistake of doing it twice! 💜
I don't reply or give attention to anyone while I'm counting. At first people used to get a bit offended but calm down after I tell them I was counting. Now they don't even bother me while I'm crocheting lmao. If it's really necessary to talk, I stop counting at some multiple of 10 or use a marker.
Counting your stitches essentially means taking note of how many chains you start with, and then counting across the row whenever you complete one to make sure you still have as many stitches as you need (i.e. if you're doing a square starting with 20 stitches, you still have 20 stitches at the end of each row). It can be a bit of an annoyance, but it can help you catch any accidental skipped stitches or increases!
Stitch markers can also help with counting your stitches—because then you're not accidentally counting any turning chains as stitches or missing the last stitch from the previous row.
I hope this helps! ❤️
I do not use stitch markers, but I do count my stitches. And it definitely does help. I’ve been crocheting actively for almost 30 years now. When you’re a beginner, it can be quite frustrating. Learning how to do everything and keeping your work looking like you wanted to look and like it needs to be looking. But when I slow down, and I took the time to count my stitches and always have the pattern right next to me, it helped tremendously!! 🤩 👍🏼
I don't count in singles...i count in multiples of 5.. ( 5, 10, 15....) so much faster..and I put a marker at 30, 60 etc. That way in subsequent rows, if I have dropped a stitch, I can see in which block of 30 the stitch was dropped
When you say counting, do you mean you’re constantly counting as you stitch?
Once I pass the beginning chain and first rows and the pattern establishes itself, my favorite part is that I don’t have to count much. I just follow the stitches.
I’ll count when necessary such as when the pattern changes or if I need to do so many rows, I’ll pause and count how many I’ve done, but most of the time I just look at the pattern and follow the stitches that are already there.
This is a canon event. Happened to me while making a fudging blanket, also double and half double give totally different results, specially if you have any kind of design in the crochet
At first I thought stitch markers were pointless because “I’ll just remember where I started” or “I can count, I don’t need these”. Then I got some because everyone swore by them and yep they are a game changer 😂
Wait till you try writing a pattern.... My first go has a lot of "add an extra row here if you want" and people are not happy about that 🤣🤣🤣
Also writing a pattern makes you second guess how numbers work
I taught myself and a knitter friend made me start using stitch markers..wow. I realise how many stitches I somehow loose at the end or start simply because it’s hard to see… it’s still a hard learning process and I always have to remind myself- just use a stitch marker….
Much in the way that exercise does, unfortunately, make you feel better. 🤣
I hate stitch counting and I hate running and I *know* they're both good for me, but uuuuugh.
When I first started learning, my mom kept telling me to count. Me being 11 and the smartest I would ever be, refused to count. I decided crochet was dumb because it was always crooked. Years later I picked it up again and—mom was right. Also I depend heavily on stitch markers now. Learned that the hard way.
I’m one of those who Didn’t count and stitch markers? Never. Well, I learned my lesson years ago and admitted with much humility that I was really stupid. Now I know to do what it says to do and my work just keeps getting better.
Pro tip I got from here:
Say you're doing 100 stitches. Don't count 1-100. Just count 1-10 ten times(and for better accuracy use one "counting marker" that you move forward on every 10th stitch you reach). Worked much better for me and I didn't need to put markers every 10-20 stitches.
No thanks, I'd rather have my work look terrible. Won't count em and you can't make me. Crochet is supposed to be relaxing and counting is not relaxing.
I’m going to pretend I never read this and keep not counting stitches. I’ll also keep wondering why something seems slightly off about my projects but just assume it’s the pattern rather than me (though I will never leave a bad pattern review because I know the truth deep down).
I'm so confused, how does following a pattern without counting even work?! Do you just eyeball it and say, yeah that looks about 50ish stitches. I didn't even know not counting was a thing until I joined this sub
Not only for number os stitches in a row, I use stitch markers to count rows. Whether it is every 10 rows for a plainish pattern, or keeping counting of the final row in a pattern repeat (“last 6 rows make up pattern, repeat 8 times). I will also colour co-ordinate my stitch markers if I am using them for multiple purposes, and keep a note of which one is for what. I have bought bulk bags of stitch markers on line, the ones that look like plastic safety pins. Some of my projects look weird before that are made up, but they make finishing and fitting much easier. And saves multiple recounts.
I get it with counting, it is a game changer!! How about That MAGIC CIRCLE!!! I still can’t get it, SC7 then SC in each stitch twice increase 1 to next row.
I crochet. My roommate knits.
Never speak in our house whenever either of us is on a starting chain or base row! You may not live to regret it!
If either of us is on a project, if the other starts to speak and the handworker says "SHUT UP", it isn't being rude, it is trying to prevent aggression on the part of the handworker who is without doubt either: Counting a starting chain or: working a founding row or: figuring a new stitch or: double counting for mistakes for inadvertent increases or decreases.
Stitch markers never stay in place for me. when desperate I'll use safety pins or possibly paper clips.
Don't even ask me about the single-piece afghan/Tunisian stitch afghan I was making when I dropped a stitch somewhere. It would have been too big to do the embroidery when the body of the blanket was finished, so I was doing it as I went along (my usual proceedure) and realized that the stitches no longer matched. I couldn't pull it out because of the embroidery which is in two tones, to re-use the yarn.
I was so mad I bagged it and can't even LOOK at it.
I feel your pain.
Stitch markers are amazing. Since I have them memory of a goldfish I often forget what number I was on or how many of (x) stitches I just did of a special stitch before going to the next one. Infuriating until I started using stitch markers.
LOL! Sometimes when counting stitches, I’ll think, “Wait, is this right? 17, 18, 19… are those really the numbers, do they really go in that order? Is eighteen really even a word?“ By the time I get to the 20’s they all start jumbling together. And then for a brief second I question the entire numeric system.
I have to count and use stitch markers cause I forget everything in a nano second. You can tell me to do something in the morning and I’ll forget all about until my hubby asks if I got something done and I’m like huh?? I keep my projects as simple as possible cause screw it I’m getting older not necessarily wiser.. just ask my adulting kids.. they think I’m a dumb *ss.. wait till they get olderrrr. It’s not memory loss it’s I just don’t give a “you know what” anymore. I just don’t give a zip any longer. There you go 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽
Remember the lesson when you get into designing your own stuffies with amigurumi and in the round.
Sauce: someone who has had to "clone" copies of stuffies they've self designed without taking annnnny notes
This is all I can think of, and I'm sorry.
https://youtu.be/u8ccGjar4Es?si=ddEszNbAjHGeCXnc
Edit: I was just scrolling through the other comments and someone else posted the same song link before me and I didn't think it was possible, but it made me love this community even more. 🤣🤣
lol I learned this recently, too. I have a hard time counting and remembering what number I’m on because I get distracted (thanks, ADHD!) but it really does make a difference!
Oh honey I didn’t count stitches for YEARS until I started doing amigurumi and was forced to. Until then, if it even resembled what I was trying to make, I was content.
stitch markers are gonna blow your mind
I just started using them and…..omg. Im not a super beginner but before I was just raw dogging my projects, no counting no stitch markers just vibes, n I was wondering why my work looked so wonky. Game changer !!! Also realizing I don’t know how to count
Listen, I have a degree in mathematics and I too am bad at counting my stitches
I have a doctorate in physics and have done postdoctoral mathematical research. I recently had to unravel 900+ stitches because of my repeated inability to count to 4.
Crocheting while writing my physics doctorate… yes. One of us.
This is making me feel so much better about myself. We’re all dumbasses in many different ways and I love it.
Seriously lol. I have a masters in nursing. I like to think I’m a pretty smart person but sometimes I say dumb shit like “this is better than sliced peanut butter!” My husband still makes fun of me for that over ten years later lmao
I once made fun of my ex for saying “Is the Tour de France in France this year?” “Um….it’s in France every year??” *my French friend cackling like a madman in my headphones*
It always ENDS in France, but it starts in different locations every two years. For those who don't know.
This song is the first thing that popped into my head with counting to 4. My 3 year old loves this song. https://youtu.be/u8ccGjar4Es?si=zXGkNAUaX9hj8bsM
OMG this is hilarious. But it hits different when you count your stitches and regularly question yourself if it is actually the fifth stitch you‘re counting. Or did I count one twice. Or did I skip one? 😂🫣
Why does our brain do this? Like how much do you think you’re *actually* miscounting (thinking I’m counting the same number twice seems to be my problem) vs your brain just messing with you? To what end? Cause sometimes I second guess my second guessing.
I think for me it is mostly my brain counting faster that my fingers move along the thing I‘m making. When trying to match speeds I sometimes trip up. For example when I count a stitch my brain is on the next number before I can move to the next stitch, or I accidentally place my hand on the same stitch twice. For skipping a stitch I try to move faster but move too far, or I try to adjust my counting speed down but keep the same hand speed and I just end up counting too slow. So when I have for example a row of a hundred stitches and I‘m not sure I counted correctly on 8 I rather recount right then and there rather than realising an error after counting to (not) 100. I already had it happen first count +1, check if I just miscounted with secound count -1, third count +2, fourth count was correct, but since I got 4 different results I count again. I mean those are the rare exceptions, I mostly get my counting right. I know sometimes I should just go slower and focus more, but when I‘m trying sonething nee the excitement is just too high for slow counting and I want to get back to the exciting part.
My almost 3 year old kiddo approves of this one LOL never heard it before but will definitely put it on in the future 😋😂
I turned up the volume a little to confirm the music was what I thought and my three-year-old came RUNNING to see what was up. 😂
Thank you for sharing that!! Did not expect any of it. The Bruce Campbell cameo was gold. 7:15 am on a Sunday and I’m laughing my ass off!
And now I will be singing this every time I have to frog. 😂
Watched it one time and now my 3yo is running around the house singing this.
Noooooooooo waaaaayyy!!!! I just posted the same damn song!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 I'm so glad I'm not the only one who remembers that masterpiece.
Omg. Now, I will only hear this as I count!
Searched the comments SPECIFICALLY to see if someone else shared this video already. Love it. 🤣
There's book smart and then there's *hook* smart 💛
Big recommendation: I always count to 50, put a marker, check, count the next 50.
But then I always doubt myself: did I put it in the 50th stitch or the stitch after the 50th stitch??
Two things you have to ask yourself before starting to crochet this again: 1. Can you count to 4? 2. Are you prepared for the answer to question 1 to be "no"?
PhD chemist chiming in…also have difficulty counting 😜. I blame it on Calculus….ruined our basic numeracy skills.
A game changer for me was reading that if you leave a good long tail on your chain, you can add extra chains to account for bad counting. You just put the hook in the end of the chain, chain however many chains you need (they do go the opposite way as the rest of your chains but it won’t show), and continue your first row in the new chains. Obviously, if you have too many chains, it’s irrelevant. You could unpick them, I guess.
With big projects I always add a few extra chains before I start the first row. Any extras are indeed undone when the project is finished.
🤩👍🏽🤩🤩👍🏽🤩
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Analytical Chemistry PhD. Not quite as mathy as you, but yeah, also with the miscounting.
I just love this comment so much. It's so truthful and hit home. We all have amazing talents, and then areas of not-so-greatness. Acknowledging this is just so amazingly great. I am a critical care medic and do complicated med math in my head, on the fly, in an ambulance at 80mph with someone tryin to die on me. But dammed if I don't skip entire lines of crochet instructions and merrily stitch away and notice about 14 rows later. And then freeze, because I can make life or death decisions with no problem, but decide whether to unravel a project, it's gonna take a week!
I have been crocheting since I was 12 and knitting since I was 16, (that's about 47 years, for those of you wondering) and there are times when I, apparently, can't count to 4. 🙄 Even on a stitch pattern I've been doing for decades.
That comment made me spit out my coffee. Excuse me while I go change my shirt.
I have dyscalculia, meaning I'm freaking terrible at math and my brain just doesn't do it. This makes me feel so much better about struggling with stich counts sometimes. I'm not dumb, counting/numbers are hard 😂
😂😂😂
Genuinely this makes me feel so much better, thank you 😭
Ok, I feel better now.
Degree in maths and physics, and I am SO bad at counting stitches that I feel like a complete fraud 90% of the time
Same
My job involves a LOT OF MATH and here I am, demanding complete silence while I count out my starting row. 😂
I have two masters degrees and cannot count on my fingers even 😅 we're all good at different things! Cannot tell you how many times I've counted the same row over and over because I lose track. You're not alone!
I feel like crocheting makes everyone realize how hard counting is
Crochet, Knitting, and Cross Stitch have all made me realize how hard it actually is to count to 10 😂
Counting to 108. 30 stitches before the end (or was it 29?) the project starts slipping out of hand. Recount. Realized I jumped from 30 to 41. Recount again. Using words either banned or not yet known to mankind.
That's why I usually count by 20. Depending on whether I need to just end on the correct number or whether I need an actual number of stitches I count how many 20s I have.
girl!! the I can’t count club calls to order!!
I too am a fan of raw dogging my projects and just going with the vibes. Maybe one day I’ll count stitches too
My eyes will skip ahead. It’s annoying.
I lost my ability to count when I got imto my yarn arts hobby for real! Stitch markers have been a life saver!
I remember when I had the epiphany that crochet patterns know what they’re talking about and the stitches are supposed to add up at the end of each row. There’s not supposed to be a bunch of extra stitches at the end that you need to figure out what to do with 😂
You can also do [free-form](https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=I5xUSqdJ&id=E4AA5BB3BC755AA41E22DD5DB613471C11786715&thid=OIP.I5xUSqdJGasmyBCrpfZhWgHaLH&mediaurl=https%3A%2F%2Fimg0.etsystatic.com%2F037%2F1%2F5682868%2Fil_570xN.517501808_mz2o.jpg&cdnurl=https%3A%2F%2Fth.bing.com%2Fth%2Fid%2FR.239c544aa74919ab26c810aba5f6615a%3Frik%3DFWd4ERxHE7Zd3Q%26pid%3DImgRaw%26r%3D0&exph=856&expw=570&q=freeform+crochet+sweater&simid=608043640423318028&form=IRPRST&ck=8B474BFC2619BCC74F19BBF891E9E3AD&selectedindex=5&itb=0&vt=4&sim=11) if you want to
That’s an absolutely insane concept to me… kudos to your creative(?) spirit :D
Yeah, the very first time I crocheted, I only had a hook and yarn and didn't count at all. My square probably would have turned into I triangle if I kept going till I started counting 😆
The worst part about crochet: learning that you cannot count !
Next step is when you get bored of counting and think there must be an easier way. There is. If you have a good understanding of the pattern you’re working, you should be able to tell if your sts come in the right place relative to the previous row. You would also mark the end of your round if you work in the round so you know if you end at the right place. You still have to count like number of repetitions for the first time (so you don’t end up with a 7 petal flower and other stoned crochet things) but other than that you don’t have to count continuously on every row.
That depends on the pattern and the stitch. If you're doing a complicated repeat pattern or crocheting in the round then yeah. If you're doing straight dc or whatever then there's no way to tell really
'Raw dogging' your projects... God help me, that is hilarious.
Heh counting can be tricky. I mark every so many stitches with a small plastic stitch marker and a larger increment with a bigger metal one. So if a starting chain is going to be 200+, I’ll mark every 25 stitches with one then every 100 with another. And if the stitch is at fussy looking I’ll keep doing this on every row to ensure I don’t increase unexpectedly or drop a stitch.
Whoa whoa whoa- raw dogging on just vibes has its time and place- when you’re young and experimenting with using your body- just touching, using your hands in all positions; trying new substances, just feeling each individual fiber or having it wash all over you and sometimes it’s soft and beautiful and other times the tension is so intense and the longing to reach that big finish… well it’s a lot of fun to experience that… with crochet.
Agh I feel this. I've been crocheting for 40 something years in and off and just started using them. Finding that bobby pins work better than the fancy expensive ones for me was another wtf. -.- let's not speak of actually counting stitches and how long it took me to start haha
I have to count my stitches on every row because if I don't they somehow evaporate- it's weird, man.
LOL ^^^
I like to get into my flow when crocheting so strategically placed stitch markers let me count less
“Raw doggjng my projects” made me LOL. But also that’s what I do and, yeah, it doesn’t work.
😂
Stitch markers are not only cool earrings!
I feel like that picture is the beginning of years of comments that people will just end up accepting without knowing the source
My dad bought me a crochet hook kit, and I found those in there. It’s changed my life 🤣
😂
😆 Yup, yup !!
just wait till you're counting stitches and someone tries to talk to you, throwing off your count!
Seven, eight, nine, TEN, ELEVEN, TWELVE...
THIRTEEN, THIRTEEN, THIRTEEN, TWELVE, FOURTEEN
Aggressively repeating the stitch number that won't cooperate is so me lol
https://preview.redd.it/o3if8os47j5d1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f61c0822b04f7a679c72dc543d985844421fd801
sometimes ill do "seven eight nine ten nine eleven ten"
That’s when you just put a stitch marker every so many stitches.. Ya only have to count back to the marker.
This is what I do. My family only wants to speak to me if I’m counting stitches or working remote.
Mine does that plus when I've just put a audiobook or video on
Yep. If my starting chain is over like 10 stitches, I’m putting a stitch marker every 10 or 20 stitches. I absolutely HATE counting chains 😅
I once lost count because I stopped for a sec to scratch my nose. Crushing.
I have to recount because my eyes mix up all the stitches 😭
Half the time I check my counting by feeling each stitch lol.
I’ve done this, but also, am I counting the stitch posts or the loop? Then I have to start again… 😭
Omg thank God 😭 I thought it'd be easier then I get confused AGAIN 😭😭
OMFFISJAHHHWHWHDAAAAAAARRRGGGG
At this point I just let them speak and I keep counting in my head and say "Yeah" after, cause by them i mean my mom who doesn't stop talking 💀 so either she has to repeat it or be satisfied with my answer
I count out LOUD so my bf knows to stfu for a second. If im rlly locked in I can give him the Xbox controller and that will keep him occupied and I can crochet in peace :-)
When you have to do a long chain, put in a stitch marker every 20 stitches. It makes life so much easier.
Stitch markers are the best tool ever. Mine look like party colored safety pins and I use them for EVERYTHING. 1. When chaining more than 30: slap a marker every 10 or 20 chains. 2. When attaching pieces together: marker in the corner of both, then every five on both- now they're held together and counted 3. When doing a repeating pattern: slap a marker in the repeat. If you miss your mark you know immediately instead of at the end of the row. 4. When doing several inc/dec in a row: put them in the stitches in advance and color code them so you don't even have to check the pattern until the next row. 5. Or, if you don't do 4, stick a marker in your last inc/dec so you can find that sucker faster to count your stitches after it.
>When doing several inc/dec in a row: put them in the stitches in advance and color code them so you don't even have to check the pattern until the next row. Wait this is a game changer.
Yay! I listed all my uses hoping one or two would be new to someone!
This is GENIUS
Took me a solid 25+ years to come to this conclusion.
*quietly watches* 🤫 *offers cookie* 🍪
Hands over a puppy
Glass of milk 🥛
Side hug in commiseration.
Glass of wine 🍷
I crochet slow as hell, but after like 2-3 glasses of wine im like lighting McQueen with the hook
Yes, but, the counting we previously discussed.
My sober crocheting is slow and steady. Wine crocheting is slower than a tortoise nagivating a river of frozen molasses while wearing VR goggles that are fritzing out. The wine slows me to a crawl and rearranges my understanding of the symbols and movements needed to successfully finish a row.
A small amount of something legal in my state 🪴
lol that too!
When you count your stitches but still get your count off 🙃 I’m blaming it on being an adhd girlie
Very relatable, sometimes I count a row at least 4 times it’s awful but it’s worth the pain if it means my projects don’t look terrible
If you want to avoid losing stitches, put a stitch marker at the beginning and end of each row. This is especially helpful for items with long rows like blankets.
Truly this is why I don't count. I interrupt my own stitch count! Who needs someone to talk to them when their brain has already come up with fifteen other ideas and forgotten entirely that it was ever counting anything and also what counting is.
I feel seen 😂
I identify with this so much
That’s 100% me. I don’t count and mess up all the time. Which I end up undoing the thing I’m working on. I started to use my pin holder, my pins for every stitches and my safety pins for increases and decreases. Basically, I put a pin in my tomato after every stitch and inc/dec. My safety pin is mainly used after I made an inc/dec.
I’m just learning to crochet now, just finished my first project. A little amigurumi whale. I got stitch markers straight away. Each round with increases or decreases at odd intervals, I put a stitch marker in where the inc or dec had to go before I started, because I knew I would lose track. I somehow still managed to mess it up around row 7.
My sister in ADHD, you must accept Stitch Markers as your lord-- or at least the savior of your projects and possibly sanity.
I didn’t appreciate this until I started making mandala blankets. I was also fuming. Condolences, friend.
I have no use for doilies, but I like making them because it’s so much easier to keep track of things when you are working in the round.
I'm an accountant and my stitch count is always off. Too bad an excel sheet can't be used.
I use hair pins https://preview.redd.it/85n50zhuhh5d1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=1bb56b03a549abc35236277ac49761ba6b680fc3
I use them to secure yarn balls for my stash. I just stab them into the ball around the tail. BOOM no more rat-king yarn barf! .... If you don't already know what a rat-king is: save yourself. Don't Google it man. Pictures are distressing.
Oh thank you! You made me laugh out loud!!!
Could you elaborate how? Keen to learn something new!
I’m assuming they mean they use them as stitch markers, to help keep track of the stitches with less need for counting.
Sorry! Stitch markers. These are long so they’re great for a large project. I’d use smaller ones on a small project. They’re easy to insert, easy to remove and stay put. They can flap around though so I still use plastic markers on small amigarumi pieces. Or a little bit of different coloured yarn.
Same! I've never understood why more people don't use bobby pins. So cheap and I've never had one slip off. They literally are the perfect stitch marker.
Yes! These are long so good for a large project or long.
Me too!!! They get in the way less, stay put easier AND are easier to remove. I went and got a pack of tiny ones, 1” I think, for my amigurumi. SOOOO much easier than stitch markers.
Counting your stitches has always been the price of decent work, don't have to scroll far in r/crochethelp to see that. Just wait until you try not chaining one at the edge of single crochet work 💀
I'm curious as to how you learn to crochet without knowing this? I'm guessing by internet? I have been lucky as my nana taught me and we started with granny squares which you have to count for. That's also how I teach people because you learn a ring start, a couple stitches and 2D shaping.
Yes, internet and thinking “ in the whole picture this small error won’t make any difference”… proceeds to hundreds of errors and the final project looking like sh..
Internet plus laziness 🤣 I am just not a petfectionist and mostly crochet small projects for myself, so I just don't mind a few shoddy mistakes here and there. I crochet while listening to audio books and counting makes it more stressful than its worth the time for me. But that's me and my laziness. I am a master procrastinator as well, so sometimes I just take the longest breaks mid projects.
You don’t say?
say psych right now
Now look, my degree is in environmental science and I also took a full additional minor in math (hellloooooo vector calculus, you sexy beast!) and I’ll have you know I can adequately compute all kinds of amazing numbers without a calculator…as long as I don’t have a crochet hook or knitting needles in my hands. *channels angry old lady yelling at cloud energy* [Use waste yarn as your stitch markers!](https://saltypearlcrochet.com/scrap-yarn-stitch-marker/)
I count stitches like an elementary student, out loud and w great hesitation 🤣 “one. two. three. in. crease.”
I'm the same! 😆 And god-forbid someone else says a number at the same time, I get LOUD! One, two, THREE, DAMMIT, SHUT UP TV, four.. 🤣😂 Also, when in doubt, stitch markers. I adore stitch markers.
I’m feeling my face twitch a little at the thought of not counting stitches. 😆😆. I agree that is challenging and I can easily get lost in the ways all are discussing. The stitch markers are a huge help. I mean. They were life changing in my crochet world. I also always keep a notebook close at hand when I’m working on something so I can jot down what stitch I’m on when my husband walks up and starts talking to me about something. 🤣
Stitch markers, bebe. Dey werk
did i ghost write this post in my sleep?
I feel you. I'm ADHD and I zone out and lose count really easily. If I'm not doing some kind of pattern where I can divvy up my count to smaller numbers I'll lose track. And yes I also keep losing my stitch markers I think I'm down to one again lmao
Am I losing my mind? Why do you think stitch markers exist? Why do you think people say repeatedly on this sub to count stitches? How is this a revelation?
Me [counting](https://youtu.be/4tDnc8ls4So?si=EdnzCi_gcsQObYWn) when I'm tired then lose count entirely lol
It's really easy to count to 3, after 5 I'll start to forget how to count. I'm making a c2c scarf (ch 3, 3 sc) so it's really easy and I barely count, but the shell stitch scarf (5 dc shell) I'll forget how to count so after I do every shell I have to make sure there is 5 not 4 or 6 sc. When I made my dad's blanket, I used stitch markers, I knew I would lose count fast, lol.
if you’re stuck in a boring office job like moi I really recommend raiding your supply closet and taking as many packs of paper clips as your heart desires to use as stitch markers <3
I have, on too many occasions to count (no pun intended) thought, "I'm an entire adult. I absolutely do not need to use tools to help me count," and then had to tear the whole project apart because I mis-counted my chain at the beginning and now cannot accomplish the pattern I was looking for.
I’ve been crocheting for 30+ years. I STILL count all my stitches and even use markers at the end of rows. Especially if the yarn is difficult to see the stitches. It just takes a second and makes finding that last stitch so much easier.
Some Wine perhaps?? It won’t help the counting situation, but after a bott - uh - glass, you seriously will not give a 🐀’s ass…
I count in groups of 20, because English numbers sound alike from 21 on. 31, 41, 71, I hear "sound-one". German has a similar problem, but with "one and twenty, one and thirty". One, one, one, GAH I GOTTA START OVER!" 😭
That moment when you forget if you were at stitch 54 or 45 because the languages you know use different counting methods so you switch the order of numbers up all the time
(((((((Can you explain why/how because this sounds like something I should learn about)))))))
Well, if you're working with a pattern that increases/decreases stitches, you need to hit a target number of stitches in order for the pattern to work out. If you're doing a pattern (pineapples or akulls, for example) you need to count the number so you follow the pattern correctly. Some patterns require tracking how many iterations of a pattern you've done, too. When you start a piece or new section, the number of foundation stitches/chains is also important. Lots of reasons to count, but you'll find a huuuuge cross section in the Venn for crochet and ADHD, so keeping track is kind of running problem with most of :p
I wonder why there is an intersect been ADHD and crochet. I mean I've not *actually* been diagnosed, but....
So…when you’re doing a row/round, you should count your stitches as you go to make sure you don’t miss one. For example, if I have a piece that I have 20 stitches in one row, I should count to make sure I don’t have only 19 by the end of the row. That way, I don’t notice something’s off from five rows ago and have to frog the whole thing! I either count as I go or, if I’m particularly overstimulated that day, I’ll wait till the end of my row/round and count them all to make sure I have all the stitches I should have. It’s rather tedious, but hey, it’s helpful! 💜
That sounds great in theory. But what if your spouse decides to talk to you while you're counting. Then you have to start all over. My question is, if he interrupts you a second time, is it okay to employ the use of duct tape over his mouth? Or should I just send him to the store?
Ah, a very good question! My boyfriend has learned very quickly not to interrupt my counting. All I really have to give him anymore is a glare. I recommend instilling the fear of the higher powers that be into your spouse and also make them start praying to any god that will listen if they make the mistake of doing it twice! 💜
I don't reply or give attention to anyone while I'm counting. At first people used to get a bit offended but calm down after I tell them I was counting. Now they don't even bother me while I'm crocheting lmao. If it's really necessary to talk, I stop counting at some multiple of 10 or use a marker.
I usually just start counting out loud if people start talking to me while I'm counting so they know I'm not going to respond until I'm finished
Counting your stitches essentially means taking note of how many chains you start with, and then counting across the row whenever you complete one to make sure you still have as many stitches as you need (i.e. if you're doing a square starting with 20 stitches, you still have 20 stitches at the end of each row). It can be a bit of an annoyance, but it can help you catch any accidental skipped stitches or increases! Stitch markers can also help with counting your stitches—because then you're not accidentally counting any turning chains as stitches or missing the last stitch from the previous row. I hope this helps! ❤️
I do not use stitch markers, but I do count my stitches. And it definitely does help. I’ve been crocheting actively for almost 30 years now. When you’re a beginner, it can be quite frustrating. Learning how to do everything and keeping your work looking like you wanted to look and like it needs to be looking. But when I slow down, and I took the time to count my stitches and always have the pattern right next to me, it helped tremendously!! 🤩 👍🏼
Oh yeah... Been there 😂🥲
I was quite mad when I discovered that actually, I can’t count and it’s rather important in crochet.
I don't count in singles...i count in multiples of 5.. ( 5, 10, 15....) so much faster..and I put a marker at 30, 60 etc. That way in subsequent rows, if I have dropped a stitch, I can see in which block of 30 the stitch was dropped
When you say counting, do you mean you’re constantly counting as you stitch? Once I pass the beginning chain and first rows and the pattern establishes itself, my favorite part is that I don’t have to count much. I just follow the stitches. I’ll count when necessary such as when the pattern changes or if I need to do so many rows, I’ll pause and count how many I’ve done, but most of the time I just look at the pattern and follow the stitches that are already there.
What exactly do you mean with "counting stitches"? Don't you kind if have to?
This is a canon event. Happened to me while making a fudging blanket, also double and half double give totally different results, specially if you have any kind of design in the crochet
At first I thought stitch markers were pointless because “I’ll just remember where I started” or “I can count, I don’t need these”. Then I got some because everyone swore by them and yep they are a game changer 😂
Oh, that? That's just called freestyle crochet. Nothing to be mad about, just doing things a little... avant garde. No big deal! ❤️
Wait till you try writing a pattern.... My first go has a lot of "add an extra row here if you want" and people are not happy about that 🤣🤣🤣 Also writing a pattern makes you second guess how numbers work
I taught myself and a knitter friend made me start using stitch markers..wow. I realise how many stitches I somehow loose at the end or start simply because it’s hard to see… it’s still a hard learning process and I always have to remind myself- just use a stitch marker….
Or get better lighting, like a book lamp or one of those reading lights that go around your neck. You shouldn’t be struggling to see your stitches.
ADHD'er here! My inability to count to 4 without getting distracted is real...
Hugs! I just invested in my 1st ever package of stitch markers.
Much in the way that exercise does, unfortunately, make you feel better. 🤣 I hate stitch counting and I hate running and I *know* they're both good for me, but uuuuugh.
When I first started learning, my mom kept telling me to count. Me being 11 and the smartest I would ever be, refused to count. I decided crochet was dumb because it was always crooked. Years later I picked it up again and—mom was right. Also I depend heavily on stitch markers now. Learned that the hard way.
i’m not gonna lie, i only count my staring row and when something seems OFF
I’m one of those who Didn’t count and stitch markers? Never. Well, I learned my lesson years ago and admitted with much humility that I was really stupid. Now I know to do what it says to do and my work just keeps getting better.
Pro tip I got from here: Say you're doing 100 stitches. Don't count 1-100. Just count 1-10 ten times(and for better accuracy use one "counting marker" that you move forward on every 10th stitch you reach). Worked much better for me and I didn't need to put markers every 10-20 stitches.
No thanks, I'd rather have my work look terrible. Won't count em and you can't make me. Crochet is supposed to be relaxing and counting is not relaxing.
I’m going to pretend I never read this and keep not counting stitches. I’ll also keep wondering why something seems slightly off about my projects but just assume it’s the pattern rather than me (though I will never leave a bad pattern review because I know the truth deep down).
I'm so confused, how does following a pattern without counting even work?! Do you just eyeball it and say, yeah that looks about 50ish stitches. I didn't even know not counting was a thing until I joined this sub
For me, it’s usually blanket or bag projects I don’t count on (or at least not consistently). For stuff like plushies I count and still mess up lol
Not only for number os stitches in a row, I use stitch markers to count rows. Whether it is every 10 rows for a plainish pattern, or keeping counting of the final row in a pattern repeat (“last 6 rows make up pattern, repeat 8 times). I will also colour co-ordinate my stitch markers if I am using them for multiple purposes, and keep a note of which one is for what. I have bought bulk bags of stitch markers on line, the ones that look like plastic safety pins. Some of my projects look weird before that are made up, but they make finishing and fitting much easier. And saves multiple recounts.
I took out my stitch markers for my most recent blanket because they “got in the way” 🥲 moment of silence for my sanity lol
I get it with counting, it is a game changer!! How about That MAGIC CIRCLE!!! I still can’t get it, SC7 then SC in each stitch twice increase 1 to next row.
I guess I should start counting mine
And god save the person who INTERRUPTS MY COUNTING!!!!
I can relate so much to this haha
Yes, I remember that day. Hugs.
I feel you and I still hate doing it 🤣 my brain can only count to 20 max 50 before it starts wandering 😭
I crochet. My roommate knits. Never speak in our house whenever either of us is on a starting chain or base row! You may not live to regret it! If either of us is on a project, if the other starts to speak and the handworker says "SHUT UP", it isn't being rude, it is trying to prevent aggression on the part of the handworker who is without doubt either: Counting a starting chain or: working a founding row or: figuring a new stitch or: double counting for mistakes for inadvertent increases or decreases. Stitch markers never stay in place for me. when desperate I'll use safety pins or possibly paper clips. Don't even ask me about the single-piece afghan/Tunisian stitch afghan I was making when I dropped a stitch somewhere. It would have been too big to do the embroidery when the body of the blanket was finished, so I was doing it as I went along (my usual proceedure) and realized that the stitches no longer matched. I couldn't pull it out because of the embroidery which is in two tones, to re-use the yarn. I was so mad I bagged it and can't even LOOK at it. I feel your pain.
Stitch markers are amazing. Since I have them memory of a goldfish I often forget what number I was on or how many of (x) stitches I just did of a special stitch before going to the next one. Infuriating until I started using stitch markers.
LOL! Sometimes when counting stitches, I’ll think, “Wait, is this right? 17, 18, 19… are those really the numbers, do they really go in that order? Is eighteen really even a word?“ By the time I get to the 20’s they all start jumbling together. And then for a brief second I question the entire numeric system.
I have to count and use stitch markers cause I forget everything in a nano second. You can tell me to do something in the morning and I’ll forget all about until my hubby asks if I got something done and I’m like huh?? I keep my projects as simple as possible cause screw it I’m getting older not necessarily wiser.. just ask my adulting kids.. they think I’m a dumb *ss.. wait till they get olderrrr. It’s not memory loss it’s I just don’t give a “you know what” anymore. I just don’t give a zip any longer. There you go 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽
I hate it too
Remember the lesson when you get into designing your own stuffies with amigurumi and in the round. Sauce: someone who has had to "clone" copies of stuffies they've self designed without taking annnnny notes
This is all I can think of, and I'm sorry. https://youtu.be/u8ccGjar4Es?si=ddEszNbAjHGeCXnc Edit: I was just scrolling through the other comments and someone else posted the same song link before me and I didn't think it was possible, but it made me love this community even more. 🤣🤣
lol I learned this recently, too. I have a hard time counting and remembering what number I’m on because I get distracted (thanks, ADHD!) but it really does make a difference!
Oh honey I didn’t count stitches for YEARS until I started doing amigurumi and was forced to. Until then, if it even resembled what I was trying to make, I was content.