You love to crochet but wonder why sometimes those edges are not looking straight. Wonky edges can make your project look less than polished and even more so, difficult to join, with uneven stitch counts, and large gaps! Yelp!
But don’t worry, though! I’ll walk you through some simple tips and tricks to help you crochet straight edges like a pro.
Back to Basic
Before we look at the solution, let’s have a look at how you start and turn at the end of every row. Ah, the age-old question of the turning chain!
When finishing a row and starting a new one, you would usually create a turning chain at the end of the row.
This turning chain brings the new row up to the correct height and the number of chains you make can depend on the type of stitch you’re using.
However, when it comes to starting a new row in double crochet stitches, there are different schools of thought.
Some people prefer to chain 3 as their turning chain, while others prefer to chain 2. Let’s take a closer look at both options and see which ones I use to create smooth edges.
How many chains do you make when working on double crochet turning chain?
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Turning Chain Method
3 Chains:
Traditionally, many crochet patterns and tutorials will instruct you to work an extra 3 chains when working on the foundation row and to insert your crochet hook through the 4th chain from the hook to start your first double crochet stitch row.
You will then crochet as usual and at the end of that row, it will tell you to chain 3 before starting the next row.
The reason behind this is that the 3 chains count as the first double crochet stitch in the row. It adds the necessary height to bring the new row up to the correct level.
2 Chains:
In recent years, an alternative method has gained popularity, which involves chaining 2 instead of 3 as the turning chain for double crochet stitches.
The foundation row will instruct you to work an extra 2 chains and to insert your hook into the 3rd chain from your hook as your first stitch of the next row.
This method is sometimes referred to as the “chain 2 turning chain.” The idea behind it is to create a turning chain that matches the height of a double crochet stitch more closely, resulting in a smaller “gap” and a neater edge.
While these two methods are common in most written patterns, it’s important to note that while these two methods are widely used and have their merits, they do not guarantee a smoother and straighter edge.
There may still be some imperfections or gaps along the edge of your crochet piece.
There are many other different ways people are working the turning chain and I on the other hand do not use either of these methods, instead, I’ll share with you a crazy easy way that may not be your standard turning chain style.
It might even become your new favorite method. This approach will be able to address the issue of achieving a smoother and straighter edge minus the gap.
My Method:
Chaining One is my preferred method however subject to what each pattern calls for of course. But if I am working on any basic stitches, whether it is a single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, or treble crochet / triple crochet stitch, my turning chain will only be ONE.
When I work one chain on the last stitch of the row, I am able to adjust the next stitch’s height accordingly while preventing those pesky gaps which will give me a smooth and clean edge every time.
Jump to Step by Step Method Below
So, which one should you choose? It ultimately depends on your personal preference and the specific pattern or tutorial you’re following. Some patterns will specify which turning chain to use, while others may leave it up to you.
If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to experiment with all methods and see which ones you’d prefer. Crochet a small swatch using all the turning chain methods mentioned above and compare the results and see which gives you that perfect straight edge.
Remember, the most important aspect is to maintain consistency throughout your project. Whichever method you choose, stick with it consistently for all the rows in your project. This will ensure that your edges remain even and straight throughout.
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Crochet Straight Edges Step-by-Step Tutorial
In this example, I have a swatch sample worked in double crochet stitches. I will work all my stitches until the end of the row. I will chain one, turn my work and pull the chain slightly higher to match my double crochet height.
I will then insert my hook at the top of the first stitch which is after that turning chain at the beginning of the row and continue working a regular double crochet.
I will continue to work my stitches all the way until the end of the row and always end with a chain one – turn – pull to match the height, and crochet as usual.
The most important thing to remember when making that very first stitch of the row is to pull the chain to match the height of the current stitch.
Taller stitches like the double and treble crochet stitches will require more chain height.
As you can see, pulling the chain slightly higher did not affect the way the first stitch looked, and it also did not give any gaps. Overall it gives me nice straight edges.
This can be applied to all basic stitches like the single crochet and half double crochet stitch.
The only few times this method will not work is when your first stitch calls for chains, slip stitches, or joining in the round just to name a few.
Check out these other great tutorials here.
Other Helpful Crochet Tips:
1. Mark your territory:
Stitch markers are your new best friends when it comes to fixing uneven edges. Place a stitch marker at the beginning and end of each row to mark your first and last stitch.
These markers act as little reminders, helping you to maintain that straight line that you’re aiming for. They’re like little traffic cones for your crochet project!
2. Tension matters:
Consistent tension is key to achieving straight edges. If your stitches are too tight or too loose, it can throw off the overall look of your project.
Practice maintaining an even tension throughout your work. Relax your grip on the yarn and crochet hook, finding a rhythm that feels comfortable for you.
With time and practice, your tension will become more consistent, and your edges will thank you!
3. Turning Direction:
If you didn’t already know this, when working on the next row in crochet, the turning direction plays a crucial role in the overall edge appearance of the project.
When you turn your work at the end of each row, it can impact the texture and symmetry of the piece. The way you turn determines whether the chain will face forward or backward.
Correctly following the same turning direction helps maintain a consistent look throughout the entire project and ensures that the stitches align correctly, resulting in a neater and more polished finished product.
***
Crocheting straight edges is all about attention to detail and a bit of practice.
Remember to choose suitable yarn and hook, mind your turning chains, count your stitches, mark your edges, and maintain consistent tension.
And if all else fails, crochet an edging along the sides can work wonders! So, don’t stress if your edges aren’t perfect at first—crochet is a journey, and each project is a chance to improve your skills.
Enjoy the process, have fun, and keep crocheting those beautiful straight edges!
And if you’re looking for new projects to work on, you can check out all the free crochet patterns suitable all year round.
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Happy hooking,
Shaz 🧶
