Bobble problems: gaps on the side

#1

How do I create a 5-stitch bobble without ending up with large holes on the right and left sides of the bobble? I have tried numerous variations on the 5 stitch bobble and all have resulted in the same gaps on the side. I am a pretty tight knitter as well, so I am not sure what I am doing wrong…

Thanks!

#2

A bobble is pulled pretty tightly, so it’s kind of natural to have some gapping at the sides of it because it’s a bunch of stitches all pulled together.