Stitches

I am teaching myself to crochet...Do I have to count all of my stitches in order to keep it straight?

Public Comments

1. Hi, Yes, you have to count your stitches. I bought one of those teach yourself how to crochet books and taught myself a few years ago. I am no expert, but counting is important! You have to count your stitches. Start out making a scarf or a basic blanket. You can than mix stiches. Lions Brand Chenille is the best! Good luck!
2. Yeah, but if your good you'll realize that you're at the same number when you get to the end of the line. The only time you truly need to count is in the first row, or if you're contouring to a body shape(ex. such as shaping a sweater).
3. I don't know. I would get a book that tells me about the basics anyway. I think you do have to keep count and that would be frustrating to me. Good luck !!!
4. Yes, counting is a must. If you're starting on crochet, try practicing each stitch individually for a while, and when you feel sure about it, cut the piece, and staple the sample to a card, then write the name of the stitch and the symbol on the card. Make a sample every time you learn a new stitch, and keep all the cards in a box (something like a recipe box for crochet). Later, when crocheting a whole piece, it will be easier for you to know and remember which stitch is the one you are going to use and how to do it. It's better to check on a real sample of a stitch than just see it in a drawing, or just reading instructions all over again.
5. Counting your stitches is the best rule of thumb if you want to keep your work consistant. In addition to this rule, you'll also want to ensure you're following the proper rules of Turning Chains, for what good is straight ends if the work won't lay flat? One of the best websites that shows the rule of Turning Chains is at the Crochet Guild of America's website: http://crochet.org/lessons/lessonr/rchains.html I hope this helps. ~Dee Stanziano CYCA Certified Crochet Teacher