Tips & Tricks for Preventing Yarn Splitting While Crocheting

Look at the yarn you are using - the number of plys and the twist style is going to help or hurt yarn splitting. Fewer plys mean less separation of the strands. Look at the ends of the yarn you have and compare.

If you're at the store, looking for yarn, check the label for information on the plys, weight, and material. These are going to help determine how easily or not your yarn will split while working.

However, this is just one of the factors. Check out the next section for more tips.

Using a tapered vs in-line crochet hook is going to factor into yarn splitting as well.

• Tapered crochet hooks have a pointed cone shape at the top and cylindrical hook handle. This is the hook on the right in the image below.
• In-line crochet hooks have a rounded top and notch cut out of the hook handle. This is the hook on the left in the image below.

"Try different hooks. I find that some of my hooks split more than others. Have a variety on hand. " - Laurie

"It's often the hooks, some are the same size in mm but the ends can be different, it's just happened to me on my latest project." - Deborah

As much as you may want to get your crochet projects done as fast as possible, working too fast may be the reason your yarn is splitting. Work slower and meticulously will help you see the results of your work as you go. If you work too fast and get splits, the finished product isn't ideal anyway, so this is worthwhile.

However, this is just another one of the factors. Check out the next section for more tips.

If you notice your yarn is twisting one way or another, getting tighter or unwound, you might want to take the time in between rows or rounds to physically undo those twists or retwist as needed.

When the fibers fold in half and twist together like a yarn hank, you'll be able to see that your yarn is twisting too much and it can cause to more splitting or other problems while you crochet.

However, this is just another one of the factors. Check out the next section for more tips.

Using a higher quality yarn is going to produce a better crochet piece and cause fewer problems while you work. Natural fibers, like wool, naturally sticks to itself. That's why wool is used so prevalently in clothing.

Certain fibers have interlocking capabilities which help to prevent yarn splitting in stitches and rows, thus, making a crochet piece that is cleanly made.

We asked AllFreeCrochet readers if they had any tips for dealing with yarn splitting. A few said that hairspray, Fray Check, and beeswax can help keep the twists secure while crocheting. Anita had a great idea when storing your yarn. She said,

"Cover the edge with sellotape. Cut it off whenever you are using the yarn again."