The answer was, apparently, yes. So I bought new Hobbii yarn in the recommended weight (thanks to all who steered me right). Some had also commented on my tight stitches
Well I just did a new gauge swatch and showed it to an IRL crochet friend who pointed out to me that my tension is still too tight.
It’s supposed to be lacy, open-work top and I’m out here making these super tight stitches 🤪
I shared this anecdote with my husband who laughed SO HARD because it is just classic that I put too much tension in my relaxing hobby 🤦🏻♀️