Do you know…..

when making your stitches on the foundation chain, some people like to work under 2 loops believing this gives a firmer edge.

I prefer to work under just one loop because I find it much easier when counting the unused loops later, when edging for example.

Whichever way you prefer to work, either method is correct

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When counting chains & stitches, do not count the loop on the hook unless otherwise specified by the pattern.

When counting high posted stitches, the beginning chain (turning chain) always counts as the first stitch unless otherwise specified by the pattern & the last stitch is worked into the top chain of the beginning ch – this helps to keep your work straight

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The first dc (US sc) of working row is worked in the first stitch of previous row under both loops of stitch.

Because the beginning chain (in high posted stitches) is counted as the first stitch of working row, the first  stitch is worked in the next stitch of previous row under both loops

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Finishing off: is so simple that people often ask me if it is correct….

draw yarn through last stitch, cut yarn & draw through – for slippery yarn I draw yarn though twice  before cutting yarn for a more secure hold… that’s it…

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Patterns sometimes require you to work in the front or back loop of the stitch – work your stitch as usual but only go through the loop indicated

Patterns sometimes require you to work around the post (or stem) of a stitch…

front post (FP) – work the stitch required by pattern inserting the hook from the front around stitch indicated by pattern

back post (BP) – work the stitch required by pattern inserting the hook from the back around stitch indicated by pattern

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When working in the round, after joining with a slip stitch to form a ring, the beginning chain (2 for htr (US hdc) / 3 for tr (US dc) / 4 for dtr (US tr) & so on… are counted as the first stitch of the round – join to complete the round with a slip stitch (ss) into the top chain of beginning chain

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By starting with an Adjustable Base Ring you can eliminate the centre hole of crochet motifs – once you have completed the required number of stitches for the centre & joined with a ss to the first stitch, pull the tail end tight to close the hole

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Another interesting  start to your motif can be made by wrapping your yarn many times around your forefinger & crocheting over the multiple layers to create a firm, thick base from which to work a floral center for example

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you can take this technique a step further by working over many strands of yarn, creating a free-standing cord or bringing extra interest to you freeform work

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an easy way to bring in sleeves & cuffs is to simply crochet over a length of elastic that has been joined to form a ring

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27 thoughts on “Do you know…..”

  2. I’ve been browsing around your blogs and website and have to thank you for the clearest instructions I have ever seen. In particular, the simple tips for starting and finishing, joining pieces and generally making the work look professional – great job.

  4. Your instructions are so clear and concise – so much better than the teacher I have (and paid $ for).
    Your instructions were what saved me from giving up crocheting before I even got started.
    Thankyou.

  5. Just wanted to comment that I love your illustrations and instructions. They are just so clear and helpful, and I find them much easier to learn from than video. Thank you for making them available.

  6. That’s wonderful, Joy… good to know that the info has been so useful & you can now approach your crochet projects with more confidence 🙂

  7. Thank you sooooo much for posting all this information! I can crochet the basics but ALWAYS wonder if I am doing it right. You have cleared up so much confusion for me that I am ready to take on something more complicated. – Joy M.

  9. Thank you so much. I’ve been looking around for good foundation info. and instructions on crochet and its all right here! I am soooooo grateful. xo

  12. Thank you so much for the crochet tips and tricks. Great. Thanks!!!!
    Tony, from the Netherlands

  14. I am now officially hooked!! Off to seek out colourful yarns….. thank you.
    Kate in Somerset, England

  15. LOL… Yes, Spain is a bit far & unfortunately I’m not a traveller… but thank you so much for your kind words, it’s always a pleasure when I’m able to help 🙂

  16. I am amazed at your art, I have no words to express my admiration. If only I lived near you so I could go to any of your workshops. I am afraid Spain is a long way from Queensland. Do you give workshops in Europe by any chance.
    By the way, thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us

  18. I have just found your bog through Pinterest and want to say, you are a fantastic and generous artist, I am in awe of and inspired by your work. Thank you so much for sharing with us all.

  20. The wisdom you impart on this page is pure gold! I am going to email this page to a friend I’ve been giving crochet lessons to this week. I already forwarded her a link to your blog, but I want to make sure she doesn’t miss this page. You really make it sound so simple and your graphics crystalize the concepts! Brilliant!

  21. Thanks for directing me to this, Renate. I think I’ll be right, now!

  25. Thank you so much for this! I’m starting to try to attempt to read crochet patterns and all information is really helpful. Thanks Ren!

  27. Thanks so much for this, I have been confused about this, and my work is always getting bigger or smaller, and when I work in the round my joins are crooked. This will certainly help!

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