Both hands are used with closed fists. Bring both arms up simultaneously so that each hand is near the opposite shoulder, arms crossing each other between the wrists and forearms. Facial expression can include additional information like if the hug was wanted or not or how long or hard it is.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'need', and then perform the 'hug' sign by crossing your arms with closed fists over your chest. Use a facial expression that shows you are earnestly wanting comfort.
To show a 'big' hug, modify the sign by wrapping your arms tighter across your chest and holding the crossed-fist position a little longer. Your facial expression should look warm and squeezed.
Sign 'you', then 'want', and finally 'hug' by crossing your arms with closed fists. Lean forward slightly and raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question, keeping your expression friendly.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'need', and then perform the 'hug' sign by crossing your arms with closed fists over your chest. Use a facial expression that shows you are earnestly wanting comfort.
To show a 'big' hug, modify the sign by wrapping your arms tighter across your chest and holding the crossed-fist position a little longer. Your facial expression should look warm and squeezed.
Sign 'you', then 'want', and finally 'hug' by crossing your arms with closed fists. Lean forward slightly and raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question, keeping your expression friendly.
No, it generally does not matter which arm is on top when you cross them over your chest. Just do whatever feels most natural and comfortable for you as you bring your closed fists up to your opposite shoulders.
You can show a tight hug by modifying how you perform the sign. Cross your arms more firmly, pull your fists in closer to your shoulders, and use your facial expression—like scrunching your face or smiling broadly—to show the intensity of the squeeze.
While you might see some signers use open hands in casual conversation, the standard variation taught here specifically uses closed fists. Sticking to the closed fists ensures your sign is clear and accurately matches the foundational vocabulary you are learning.
