Get ready to play with yarn and hook in the cheery playground of Crochet Garter Stitch! This stitch is like the super-cool friend who makes everything fun - from snuggly blankets that feel like a bear hug to scarves as stylish as a unicorn’s mane.
Crochet Garter Stitch
Material:
- Yarn
- Crochet hook size 9 (for slip stitches)
- Crochet hook size 5 mm (for the chains)
Getting Started:
Foundation Chain:
Start by making a foundation chain to the desired length using a 5 mm hook. This size is smaller than the hook used for the rest of the project because slip stitches tend to tighten the fabric, and starting with a smaller hook prevents the foundation chain from becoming too loose. For the example, create a chain of 15 stitches and then add one additional chain to turn.
Switch Hooks:
- Change from the 5 mm hook to the larger size 9 hook for the rest of the project.
Pattern Instructions:
Row 1 (Setup Row):
- With the size 9 hook, work normal slip stitches across the entire row. For a neater edge, you may opt to use the smaller hook for the last stitch of this row.
Row 2 (Back Loop Row):
- After turning your work, use the larger hook to create slip stitches into the back loops only of each stitch across the row. This targets the stitches from the previous setup row, creating the textured effect. It's advised to work these stitches loosely to make it easier to insert the hook.
Switch Hooks for Last Stitch:
- Optionally switch back to the smaller hook for the last stitch of row 2 for consistency in stitch size and a neater edge.
Row 3 (Front Loop Row):
- Chain 1 and turn your work. Now, work slip stitches into the front loops only of each stitch across. This alternating loop technique begins the pattern's distinct texture, resembling the look of knit fabric.
Last Stitch Adjustment:
- If desired, work the last stitch of Row 3 by inserting the hook through both loops for a smoother edge.
Repeat:
Continue the pattern by repeating Rows 2 and 3, always working slip stitches into the back loops only on even rows and front loops only on odd rows. Remember, the side facing you when working back loop stitches is the back of the work, and the side facing you when working front loop stitches is the front of the work.
Additional Tips:
- To achieve the proper sizing, follow the formula provided in the pattern, adjusting the initial chain count as necessary. The fabric created by this stitch will contract slightly over the first few rows, reaching the desired size after continued stitching.
- When counting rows, note that each visible ridge on the fabric's surface represents two rows.
Finishing the Work:
- Continue the pattern until your piece reaches the desired dimensions. Finish off by securing the last stitch, and weave in any loose ends.
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