chain stitch Archives

To crochet or not to crochet? When it comes to turning chains, the answer isn’t always clear. Sometimes a turning chain is not just a turning chain – it can be a whole stitch! It all depends on the pattern you’re using, but 9 times out of 10, the “rules” are the same – make the same number of chains as you have in the height of the next stitch. In other words, ch 1 for a sc row, ch 2 for a hdc row, ch 3 for a dc row, etc. This video should help explain a bit more.
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There are always exceptions to the rule, of course. And being familiar with your own gauge means you can bend those rules and patterns to work with your own style. Some find that a ch 2 creates all the height they need for a dc row, while others stick with the traditional ch 3 – and the patterns they write will reflect their own personal tension. Don’t be afraid to play around and see what works best for you, and what look you like best, regardless of what the pattern calls for. The key is to only count the turning chains as stitches that are being used as stitches.

I hope this video has helped you understand a bit more about the hows and whys of turning chains! There’s a pattern to it all, but the “rules” of crochet are really more like guidelines – never be afraid to do what works best for you, or what you think looks better. There are no crochet police, and as long as you are getting the results you want, you’re doing it right.

Once again, thanks for watching! And let me know if there are any videos, stitch tutorials, or questions you’d like to see me answer – I love to read your comments!

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For those who are thinking about taking up crocheting, here’s the very first thing you need to learn – how to crochet a chain!

How to Crochet the Chain Stitch: Right Handed Version

How to Crochet the Chain Stitch: Left Handed Version

In words, a chain stitch is when you “yarn over” the hook, and pull a loop through the loop that was already on the hook. That’s it! Getting even chains takes a lot of practice, so don’t be afraid to chain for miles and miles before you move to the next step. If you are trying to chain a certain number of chains, do not count the chain that is on the hook – just the ones that are off the hook already.

Now you can make necklaces, bracelets… try chaining using a chain as your yarn! It’s only step one and you’re already crafting. Stay tuned for more, we’re making them as fast as we can.