Every beginning crocheter learns the basics of turning their work, but do you know how to alternate turning stitches? In this article, we will look at chainless turning stitches, including how to make them and when to use them.
Learning the chainless double crochet takes your finished crochet projects to the next level. Skipping the turning chain in favor of the chainless turning stitch leaves the edges of your work even and straight.
However, the chainless turning stitch does not work as well for taller stitches, like the treble crochet, or shorter stitches, like the single crochet.
Tutorial
Follow these steps to create the chainless turning double crochet.
Step 1:
At the beginning of the row, pull the working loop taller than usual, creating the height of the turning stitch.
Step 2:
Hold the loop steady on your hook with the index finger of your hook hand. Wrap the hook under the length of the pulled high loop. Remember not to let the loop slip!
Step 3:
Yarn over to pick up the working yarn, returning the hook to its original position. You should have two loops on your hook, the second loop wrapped around the loop created in step one.
Step 4:
Yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook to finish the chainless turning double crochet. Maintain an even tension throughout the process. If your tension is too loose, the finished result will be similar to a turning chain. If the tension is too tight, the yarn might split as you try to work in the stitch.
Step 5:
Admire your work.
Pros and Cons of the Chainless Turning Double Crochet
While the chainless turning stitch eliminates the obnoxious gap created by a standard turning chain, it still falls short of perfection.
Pros:
- Eliminates the gap between the first and second stitch
- Can be made in one smooth, easy movement (with practice)
- Leaves the edges neat and straight
Cons:
- Can take a lot of practice to get right
- Might still look sloppy, if the tension of the stitch is wrong
- Can only be used for double crochet rows, but not taller or shorter stitches
Try Something New!
With the chainless turning double crochet in your stitch portfolio, you are prepared to take on more challenging projects and leave with even more professional results. White the learning curve for the chainless turning double crochet might be a little steep, the end effect is well worth the effort.