crochetguideStart here
Mark the first and last stitch of the row, and count before every turn.
Before you start: Single crochet
Compare the count with the shape
| Symptom | Check | Try next |
|---|---|---|
| Edge widens and the count rises | Look for 2 stitches in an edge stitch or a stitch in an uncounted chain. | Undo to the extra stitch and work each counted top once. |
| Edge narrows and the count falls | Find the last stitch and any counted turning-chain top. | Undo to the skipped stitch, mark it and include it. |
| Count is right but edge waves | Compare starting-chain tension and row height. | Swatch the same stitch with a more consistent working loop. |
Use a marked row
- Work a practice row of 10 single crochets. Put a removable marker in the first and last top V.
- Chain 1 and turn; do not count it. Work in the first marked stitch and every stitch across, including the last marked stitch.
- Move the markers into the new first and last stitches. Count 10 before the next turn.
- If the count differs, inspect this row now instead of repeating the error across the project.
Use the pattern’s chain rule
Some double-crochet patterns count their starting chain as a stitch. Those rows usually finish in the previous turning-chain top. Other patterns do not count it and start in the first full stitch.
Do not switch conventions partway along a pattern. If both counts and tension are consistent but a shaped project changes width, check whether increases or decreases are intentional.