Foundational Techniques

Working into the third loop of a stitch, a lesser-known technique that produces a subtle, distinctive ribbed texture throughout.

A quick, direct answer to the three common causes of crochet curling, and exactly which fix to try first for each one.

A quick-reference summary of the basic foundation chain stitch motion, repeated out to whatever target length your pattern needs.

How to close a round, a center starting ring, or a finished piece entirely, three distinct meanings of the same phrase.

The very first knot of any crochet project, tied onto your hook correctly before you work your very first chain stitch.

The steam blocking method explained specifically, best suited to wool and other animal fiber crochet projects that hold heat.

A quick reference for turning your work at the end of a row, with the exact turning chain count matched to stitch height.

The half double crochet stitch explained step by step, for a fabric height that sits between single and double crochet.

A quick-reference for starting your foundation chain, plus exactly how chain length maps to your intended target width.

Fabric stiffener versus a homemade sugar-water starch solution compared, for holding a crochet ornament’s shape long-term.

Why bind off is knitting terminology rather than crochet, and exactly how fastening off works instead to finish a piece.

How to turn your work correctly at the end of a row, including how to get the turning chain count right every single time.