I'm having a lot of issues with my alphas
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MothCookie
Skiller
MothCookie
4 months, 3 weeks ago by MothCookie
I am new to making alphas, I've only done 4 of them so far and three I haven't finished yet. The main problem I'm having is keeping the bracelet/pattern uniform where the sides are straight instead up bowing in and out. I'm using the straight alpha technique so it isn't the edges and I'm thinking most likely the string tension--which brings me to my next issue. For some reason I can do regular pattern bracelets perfectly but when it comes to alphas the knots end up being various sizes, the pattern is elongated, and there are either holes or colors of other threads showing through here and there. I've tried to do all kind of different things like pushing up every row with a credit card, making the knots tighter or looser, or making each knot have the first knot be tight and the second loose. I'm not sure what I can do, how to make these patterns look like perfectly rectangular, uniform pieces and it's really frustrating me that nothing seems to do the trick.
halokiwi
Moderator
halokiwi
4 months, 3 weeks ago by halokiwi
Are you using the flat alpha technique or the straight edges technique or both? I recommend using both.

Sometimes in alphas, the loose leading strings on the back are pulled too tight and then they are pulling on the bracelet and making it bend inwards. If that is the case, you can just cut the loose leading strings in the back to release some tention.

Are you using string by different brands? If yes, this might be the cause of the differently sized knots. If the strings have a slightly different thickness, it will leads to knots of different sizes.

It is normal that alphas are elongated. You can tie your knots a little more loosely to make them wider and you could use thicker base strings for the same effect. Pushing the knots up should also help.

If a previous leading string is poking through a knot of a new colour, try pulling on the old leading string. (This only applies, if you are using the flat alpha technique)

It's normal that alphas need a little more practice in the beginning 🙂
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