Tutorial: Alternate or Chainless DC Turning Stitch
Most patterns will instruct you to chain 3 at the beginning of a DC row and to work the first DC in the second stitch. The chain 3 would count as your first stitch, but I find that this creates a gap at the beginning of the row that is not very appealing.
Below, is a technique I like to use for creating a neat edge when working rows of DC stitches. You can also use it when working DC in the round to create a less visible seam. This method can also be used for taller stitches, just repeat until you reach the desired height.
Alternate or Chainless DC Turning Stitch
You have already turned your work, but do not work any chains. Begin by pulling up a loop in the first stitch of the row.
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Yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook. You have just made a SC stitch.
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Insert your hook into the front left vertical bar of the stitch you just made and yarn over.
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Pull up a loop. You will now have two loops on the hook.
Yarn over and pull through both loops. That’s it!
Work a DC in the next stitch and in each stitch to the end of the row.
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I’ve always just chained one and did a normal double crochet in the chain next to the hook anyway to avoid the ugly chain gap. I was never sure why no one just did a normal double crochet there.
Can you enlighten me as to why we shouldn’t?
You can certainly do that, this is just another method that I like to use. That’s the beauty of crochet, there are so many ways to do things 🙂
Can’t wait to try that technique on the next scarf I’ll be making and the many baby hats I do. Thank you!
I’ve been doing what I call “stacked singles” to avoid the gap, and to have a normal stitch-top to work into on the last stitch of the next row. My stacked singles are virtually the same as your alternate double, but I hadn’t omitted the chains, so they come out more bulky than a normal double. I’d never thought of omitting the chain!
Your solution is simpler, less visible, and; therefore, more elegant: thank you. 🙂
Thank you! I’m glad you find it useful.
Thank you! The baby hat I’m making looks so much better with this technique vs chain 3.
Very cool. I hate that gap and haven’t been able to figure out how to avoid having it. Thanks!
Your pictures and instructions are the first of many that I understand.
Now I will try it! Thank you.
You are welcome!
Beautiful! thank you!
Thank You, this is great:)