How to Crochet Straight Edges

We've all had the struggle of the sides of our project going wavy, this is usually caused by the chain ups we do to achieve the correct height for half double crochets or taller, followed by the actual half double crochet or taller, in the same stitch. If you happen to use the, count the chains as a stitch, method you end up with odd holes in your work from the chains not being thick enough..

I've got a solution for you. This method is for double crochets and half double crochets, I've not had any issues with single crochet having wonky edges, if you do tell me in the comments and I'll see if I can help you.

This pattern is for a swatch that will be 10 stitches by 6 rows.

• Yarn of any size
  • I'm using Red Heart Super Savers in Minty
• Appropriate size hook for yarn
  • I used a size J / 6 mm
• Snips
• Yarn or tapestry needle

Foundation row. Chain 11.

Row 1. Yarn over and insert your hook into the 2nd chain from the hook, make a single crochet, you should have 2 loops on your hook, yarn over and pull through both, that is your completed first stitch. Continue to make normal double crochets for a total of 10 stitches.

Chain 1 keep it loose, yarn over, make a single crochet, you should have 2 more loops on your hook, yarn over and pull through both, that is your finished first stitch. Continue to make normal double crochets for a total of 10 stitches.

Chain 1, yarn over, insert your hook into your very first stitch, pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through all 3 loops, that is your finished starting half double crochet.

Continue to make half double crochets in each stitch for a total of 10 stitches.

Once you've finished that last row, snip the yarn and use the needle to make a finishing knot by inserting the needle into the top of the last loop and pull it taught.

Next weave in your ends using a yarn or tapestry needle.

Insert the needle in between your stitches to secure them and snip the extra tail.

That's it! Simple right? You get straight sides and no weird gaps in your work.The only way you can get it smoother is to block it, but that's another tutorial.

If you like this tip and want some more check out my blog post with 5 more tips that will improve your crocheting!

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