How to Make Chainless Foundation Crochet Stitches
When you learn to crochet, you’re taught to start most projects with a series of chains, then work your first row of stitches into those chains. But I’m here to tell you, there’s a much, much, MUCH better way. It’s called the chainless foundation crochet. This is a variation of crochet stitches that actually makes your starting chain and first row of stitches at the same time! Learn this technique in my latest video tutorial.
This 12 minute video covers how to make the foundation single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet. I use these techniques anytime I have a project that starts with a straight edge (like blankets, washcloths, and some clothing), or when I am starting a hat from the bottom up. Foundation stitches not only save time, but they make for stretchier stitches than starting with a traditional chain. That stretchier chain helps make subsequent rows of stitches look uniform.
If you enjoyed this video and want to try your hand at Chainless Foundation Stitches, try some of these patterns:
Serenity Shawl, Crochet Pattern
Denim Breeze Vest, Crochet Pattern
Let’s Stay Home Blanket, Crochet Pattern
Astrid Ruana, Crochet Pattern
Searched and searched for the FREE instructions for the summertime tee
No luck!!
Anne
The pattern is at the link below, at the bottom of the blog post. If you want a printable version, you’ll have to purchase the pattern.
FREE Summertime Tee Pattern
Thanks for this video on the chainless stitches.It is SO helpful. I have a question regarding number of stitches when you are following instructions on a pattern. For example, the pattern says “Ch 135. 1 dc in 4th ch from hook, 1 dc in each ch to end of chain. 133 dc. Turn. Ch 3, 1 dc in each dc to end of row”
So, doing the chainless stitch, would I just do the 133 stitches? Up to the Turn. And then do the ch 3? This pattern requires specific number of stitches for the pattern to work, so am wondering if that is how it should be done…
Hi! You’ve got it – for the chainless start, you’ll just make the number of stitches you’re meant to end Row 1 with, then move on the the rest of the instructions 🙂