To add a row in crochet, you generally turn your work and make a turning chain to bring your yarn to the correct height for the next row of stitches, then begin crocheting into the stitches of the previous row.
Turning Your Work
To start a new row, you simply need to flip your work over, much like turning the page of a book. This action positions your hook and yarn so you can continue crocheting into the last row of stitches you completed, moving in the opposite direction.
Understanding Turning Chains
Before you begin crocheting the actual stitches of your new row, you'll create what's called a "turning chain." This chain doesn't always count as a stitch, but it provides the necessary height for the first stitch of your new row, preventing your fabric from pulling or bunching. The number of chains in your turning chain depends on the type of stitch you'll be using for the new row.
Here’s a quick reference for common turning chains:
| Stitch Type | Turning Chain (typically) |
|---|---|
| Single Crochet (SC) | Chain 1 |
| Half Double Crochet (HDC) | Chain 2 |
| Double Crochet (DC) | Chain 3 |
| Treble Crochet (TRC) | Chain 4 |
Note: Always check your pattern, as turning chain practices can vary. Some patterns count the turning chain as the first stitch, while others do not.
Starting a Single Crochet (SC) Row
Once you have turned your work, you are ready to begin the next row. For a single crochet row, the process is straightforward:
- Chain 1: Make one chain stitch. This is your turning chain for the single crochet row.
- Make the First Single Crochet: To make the first single crochet of this new row, you will then insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, and complete one single crochet. After this first stitch, you will continue making single crochets into each subsequent stitch across the row, working into the tops of the stitches from the previous row.
Key Steps for Adding Any Row
While the turning chain length varies, the fundamental process for adding a row remains consistent across different stitches:
- Turn Your Work: At the end of the previous row, rotate your project so the back (or front, depending on your preference) is facing you, and your hook is ready to work back across the row.
- Create the Turning Chain: Chain the appropriate number of stitches for the next stitch type you will be working (e.g., 1 for SC, 2 for HDC, 3 for DC).
- Work the First Stitch:
- If your turning chain does not count as a stitch (common for SC, HDC, and sometimes DC), you will insert your hook into the very first stitch of the previous row (the stitch directly below your turning chain) and complete your first stitch there.
- If your turning chain does count as a stitch (common for DC and taller stitches), you will skip the first stitch of the previous row and insert your hook into the second stitch, as the turning chain effectively replaces the first stitch.
- Continue Across: Work one stitch into the top of each stitch from the previous row until you reach the end.
Tips for Consistent Rows
- Consistent Tension: Maintain an even tension on your yarn to ensure uniform stitch size and a straight fabric edge.
- Count Your Stitches: Regularly count your stitches at the end of each row to ensure you haven't accidentally increased or decreased your stitch count, which can lead to slanted or uneven fabric.
- Identify the Top of the Stitch: When working into the previous row, always insert your hook under both loops of the "V" shape at the very top of each stitch unless your pattern instructs otherwise. This creates a neat and stable fabric. You can find more detailed guidance on identifying stitches and techniques on resources like Yarnspirations or The Spruce Crafts.
By following these steps, you can effectively add new rows to your crochet projects, building your fabric stitch by stitch.
