If you're new to crochet, you've probably wondered if you're doing it right, especially when your plushie looks a little different than expected! The truth is, every crocheter makes mistakes at the beginning (and even after years of experience). But the good news? These common crochet mistakes are totally fixable and easy to avoid once you know what to look for. 

In this post, we'll walk you through some of the most common beginner crochet mistakes, especially in amigurumi, and share simple tips to help you crochet with more confidence. Whether you're using a Scarli beginner crochet kit or diving into your fist pattern, this guide is for you.

1. Tension troubles (too tight or too loose)

Your yarn tension is how tightly or how loosely you hold your yarn while crocheting. Too tight, and your hook won't glide through consistently. Too loose, and your plushie may look floppy, uneven, or have holes with stuffing poking through.

How to avoid it:

• Relax your hands and shoulders while crocheting, keeping a firm but maintainable grip on your yarn
• Keep your loops consistent in size
• Practice with soft, forgiving yarn like Scarli Teddy Bakery to build good habits

2. Skipping stitches (or adding extra ones!)

One of the most common beginner issues is losing track of stitches, which can distort the shape of your plushie. 

How to avoid it:

• count your stitches at the end of each round
• use a stitch marker to keep track of where your round begins
• follow patterns that include stitch counts

3. Using the wrong hook size

Your hook size affects the size, texture, and firmness of your plushie. For amigurumi, using a hook size that is too small typically won't have physical consequences for your plushie (apart from making it smaller), but it may be difficult to work with a hook that is too small for your yarn. Using a hook that is too big may distort the shape, increase or create gaps in the stitches, and make it harder to manage your tension and crocheting rhythm. 

How to avoid using the wrong hook size:

• Always check the pattern for the recommended hook size
• If you're using size 6 plush yarn, we recommend using a 4-5mm hook
• Always size down your hook size from the recommended hook size written on yarn packaging, as amigurumi will most often require a smaller hook size than clothes or other items.

4. Not placing safety eyes correctly

Safety eyes are adorable, but they can't be moved once installed and when the plushie is sewn/crocheted together. A common mistake is placing them incorrectly, which can significantly alter the appearance of your plushie.

How to avoid it:

• Make sure to use patterns that include safety eye sizes and placement instructions and follow any available photos
• Practice multiple safety eye placements and compare them before committing and fastening the eyes on
• Step-by-step video tutorials help a lot!

5. Inconsistent stitching

This usually happens when you're still learning how to hold your hook or yarn comfortably. Some stitches look tight, others loose, making your project look uneven.

How to avoid it:

• Practice basic stitches on a small swatch before starting your project
• Choose a yarn that's easy to see and hold (such as Teddy Bakery from Scarli) and use a tension ring if you feel unable to create consistent tension
• Follow along with video tutorials to build muscle memory

6. Skipping the pattern instructions 

We get it, it's tempting to jump in without reading everything. But missing just one small instruction can throw off your entire plushie.

How to avoid it:

• Read the full pattern before starting (this one is for if you tend to skip instructions A LOT)
• Highlight or tick off each round as you go
• Use beginner-friendly patterns with accessible instructions, shorter round counts, and clear visual and written explanations. Video tutorials may be optimal as well.

7. Giving up too soon

Every crocheter has frogged their work at some point. It's completely normal! Sometimes it's hard to persist through the beginner stage (especially for perfectionists like me) and this is where a lot of people give up on the hobby.

How to continue through doubt:

• Remind yourself that mistakes are part of the learning process
• Choose beginner friendly kits that guide you step-by-step
• Take breaks when needed. Crochet is meant to be fun and calming!

Final thoughts

Crochet is a skill, not a talent. Like any skill, it takes time to build. Making mistakes is part of learning, and every plushie you make gets better than the last. 

If you're looking for an easy way to start, check out our Scarli crochet kits that are designed for beginners. They include plush yarn, simple (but adorable) patterns, all the right tools, and video support to help you build confidence with every stitch.