How to crochet a turning chain

Since crochet is always worked in one direction, once you've reached the end of a row, you'll need to turn your work so that you can continue crocheting in that same direction. Watch this video to learn how to move onto the next row when crocheting a flat piece of single crochet stitches:

How to crochet a turning chain (step-by-step with photos)

1. Make a chain stitch.2. Flip your piece like the page of a book, until your piece is on the other side of the loop on the hook.

3. For the next stitch, put the hook under the top loops of the stitch two stitches away from the hook.

TIP

The ch in the “ch 1 and turn” is just there to add height to the row. It doesn’t count as a stitch, so it isn’t added to the total number of stitches in the row.

Still have questions?

No, usually you don't crochet into a turning chain. It's there to give height to a new row of stitches, which is why it usually also doesn't count towards the number of stitches in a row. That said, depending on the pattern, you may be told to crochet into the back loop of the turning chain, or both loops. Sometimes the turning chain does count as a stitch depending on the pattern, so be sure to factor it in when counting your stitches.

For a row of double crochet stitches, you'll need to start with 3 turning chains. This means that when you reach the end of a row of double crochet stitches, you'll chain 3 before, or after, turning your work. Then you'll be ready to start the next row.

For a row of single crochet stitches, you only need to make one chain to start a new row. This chain gives height to the new row and helps to create a smooth edge. When working with other stitches such as half double or double crochet, you'll need two or three turning chains respectively.

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