Mastering the Turn: A Comprehensive Guide to Turning in Crochet

Crochet, with its endless possibilities and satisfying rhythm, offers a wonderful creative outlet. But sometimes, the simplest techniques can trip us up. One such technique, seemingly basic yet crucial for achieving professional-looking results, is turning. Turning in crochet is the process of rotating your work at the end of a row so you can begin working back in the opposite direction. A poorly executed turn can lead to uneven edges, slanted projects, and a general feeling of frustration. This comprehensive guide will demystify the turning process, providing you with detailed instructions, tips, and tricks to achieve perfect turns every time, regardless of the stitch you’re using.

Why is Turning Important in Crochet?

Before diving into the how-to, let’s understand *why* turning is so vital. Turning isn’t just a procedural step; it fundamentally impacts the structure and appearance of your finished piece.

* **Creates Fabric:** Turning allows you to build your crochet fabric row by row, creating the desired length and width of your project. Without turning, you’d only be able to crochet in a single continuous line.
* **Maintains Consistent Stitch Height:** The turning chain (which we’ll discuss shortly) compensates for the height of the stitches in the row, ensuring that the new row starts at the correct level. This prevents the edges of your work from sloping or becoming uneven.
* **Defines Edges:** A well-executed turn creates a neat and defined edge, giving your project a polished and professional finish. This is especially important for projects like scarves, blankets, and garments where the edges are visible.
* **Impacts Stitch Definition:** The way you turn can subtly affect the appearance of your stitches, particularly along the edges. Consistent turning helps maintain uniform stitch definition throughout your project.

Understanding the Turning Chain (ch)

The key to a successful turn is the turning chain. The turning chain is a series of chain stitches worked at the end of each row before turning the piece. The number of chains in the turning chain depends on the height of the stitch you’ll be using in the next row. Think of it as a little staircase that brings your yarn up to the right level for the next row.

Here’s a general guideline for the number of chains needed for different crochet stitches:

* **Slip Stitch (sl st):** No turning chain is usually required, or a single chain (ch 1) may be used.
* **Single Crochet (sc):** Chain 1 (ch 1) is typically used.
* **Half Double Crochet (hdc):** Chain 2 (ch 2) is commonly used.
* **Double Crochet (dc):** Chain 3 (ch 3) is standard.
* **Treble Crochet (tr):** Chain 4 (ch 4) is usual.
* **Double Treble Crochet (dtr):** Chain 5 (ch 5)

**Important Note:** These are just general guidelines. Some patterns may specify a different number of chains for the turning chain to achieve a specific look or texture. Always follow the instructions in your pattern.

Step-by-Step Guide to Turning in Crochet

Let’s break down the turning process into simple, easy-to-follow steps. We’ll use double crochet (dc) as our example stitch, but the principles apply to all stitches. You will practice with single crochet (sc) and half-double crochet (hdc) after you’re done with this to get the hang of it.

**Assumptions:**

* You have a foundation chain completed.
* You have completed one row of double crochet.

**Steps:**

1. **Complete the Last Stitch:** Finish the last double crochet stitch in your current row. Make sure your last loop has been drawn through.

2. **Create the Turning Chain:** Chain 3 (ch 3). This counts as the first double crochet of the next row in many patterns. This number varies depending on the stitch you use in the current row. See section above (Understanding the Turning Chain) for the turning chain guidelines for different stitches.

3. **Turn Your Work:** Rotate your work 180 degrees, either clockwise or counter-clockwise. The important thing is to be consistent with which direction you turn, as it can subtly affect the look of your edges. Most crocheters find it easier to turn counter-clockwise.

4. **Locate the First Stitch:** Identify the first stitch of the previous row. This is crucial for ensuring you don’t accidentally add or decrease stitches.

5. **Work the First Stitch:** Insert your hook into the first stitch of the previous row (the stitch closest to the turning chain), yarn over, and complete the first double crochet stitch of the new row. Keep in mind that most patterns will instruct you to skip the stitch at the base of the turning chain since the turning chain counts as the first stitch.

6. **Continue Crocheting:** Continue working double crochet stitches across the row, following your pattern instructions.

7. **Repeat:** Repeat steps 1-6 at the end of each row to continue building your crochet fabric.

**Let’s re-iterate with other stitches:**

**Turning with Single Crochet (sc):**

1. Finish the last single crochet stitch.
2. Chain 1 (ch 1).
3. Turn your work.
4. Insert your hook into the first stitch of the previous row.
5. Complete the first single crochet stitch of the new row.
6. Continue single crocheting across the row.

**Turning with Half Double Crochet (hdc):**

1. Finish the last half double crochet stitch.
2. Chain 2 (ch 2).
3. Turn your work.
4. Insert your hook into the first stitch of the previous row.
5. Complete the first half double crochet stitch of the new row.
6. Continue half double crocheting across the row.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Turning seems simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes, especially when you’re first learning. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

* **Forgetting to Chain:** This is the most common mistake! Always remember to create the turning chain before turning your work. Forgetting the chain will result in a shorter row and a slanted edge.
* **Chaining Too Tightly/Loosely:** The tension of your turning chain should match the tension of your regular stitches. If your chains are too tight, your edge will be puckered. If they’re too loose, your edge will be floppy. Practice maintaining consistent tension.
* **Skipping the First Stitch:** Many patterns instruct you to skip the stitch at the base of the turning chain. Failing to do so will increase the number of stitches in your row, leading to a wider project. Read your pattern carefully!
* **Working Into the Wrong Stitch:** Ensure you’re inserting your hook into the correct stitch at the beginning of each row. Accidentally skipping or adding stitches will distort your fabric. Count your stitches at the end of each row to verify you have the correct number.
* **Inconsistent Turning Direction:** While not as critical as other mistakes, consistently turning in the same direction (either clockwise or counter-clockwise) can help maintain a more uniform appearance along the edges. Experiment to see which direction you prefer.
* **Counting the Turning Chain as a Stitch When it Shouldn’t Be:** Some patterns specify whether the turning chain counts as a stitch or not. If the pattern says it *doesn’t* count, you need to work the first stitch into the very first stitch of the row. This ensures that you have the correct stitch count for the rest of the pattern.

Tips for Achieving Perfect Turns

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you master the art of turning in crochet:

* **Practice Makes Perfect:** The more you practice turning, the more natural it will become. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different techniques.
* **Use Stitch Markers:** If you’re struggling to identify the first stitch of each row, use a stitch marker to mark it. This will help prevent you from accidentally skipping or adding stitches.
* **Count Your Stitches:** Counting your stitches at the end of each row is the best way to ensure you’re maintaining the correct stitch count. This is especially important for beginners.
* **Read Your Pattern Carefully:** Pay close attention to the instructions in your pattern regarding the turning chain and whether it counts as a stitch. Different patterns may have different requirements.
* **Experiment with Different Chain Counts:** While the general guidelines for turning chain height are a good starting point, you may find that you prefer a slightly different number of chains depending on your yarn, hook size, and personal tension. Experiment to see what works best for you.
* **Blocking:** Blocking is a technique used to shape and even out your finished crochet project. Blocking can help to straighten edges and improve the overall appearance of your work. After you’ve finished your project, gently wash it, pin it to a flat surface, and allow it to dry completely.
* **Yarn Choice Matters:** The type of yarn you use can also affect the appearance of your turns. Some yarns are more prone to stretching or distorting than others. Experiment with different yarns to see which ones work best for you.
* **Consider the Pattern Design:** The design of your pattern can influence the best turning method. For example, some patterns may call for a slip stitch turn, which creates a very tight and defined edge. Others may call for a chainless turning method, which creates a seamless transition between rows.

Advanced Turning Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basic turning techniques, you can explore some more advanced methods to further refine your crochet skills:

* **Chainless Turning:** This technique eliminates the turning chain altogether, creating a seamless transition between rows. It’s often used for projects where a clean, invisible edge is desired.

* To execute a chainless turn with double crochet (dc), at the end of the row, draw up a loop to the height of a double crochet stitch, yarn over, and insert your hook into the first stitch of the previous row. Yarn over and pull through, yarn over and pull through the first two loops on the hook, then yarn over and pull through the last two loops on the hook.

* **Slip Stitch Turn:** This technique involves working a slip stitch into the first stitch of the previous row before turning. This creates a very tight and defined edge, which can be useful for projects like bags or coasters.

* At the end of the row, slip stitch into the first stitch of the previous row. Chain 1, then turn your work. This creates a firm edge that is less likely to stretch. This is great for projects where a stiff edge is desirable.

* **Modified Turning Chains:** Some crocheters prefer to modify the turning chain to create a smoother or less noticeable edge. For example, instead of chaining 3 for a double crochet turn, they might chain 2 and then work a double crochet into the second chain from the hook. This can help to reduce the gap between the turning chain and the first stitch.

* For example, if you typically use a ch 3 to turn in double crochet, try chaining 2, then working a double crochet into the second chain from the hook. This can help to create a less gappy edge. Experiment to see what works best with your yarn and tension.

Troubleshooting Common Turning Issues

Even with careful attention, you might encounter some common problems when turning your crochet. Here’s a guide to troubleshooting:

* **Slanted Edges:** This is usually caused by inconsistent tension or forgetting to chain. Make sure your turning chains are the same tension as your regular stitches, and always double-check that you’ve chained the correct number of chains before turning.
* **Puckered Edges:** This can be caused by chaining too tightly or working too many stitches into the first stitch of the row. Try loosening your turning chain tension and make sure you’re only working one stitch into each stitch of the previous row.
* **Floppy Edges:** This can be caused by chaining too loosely or skipping stitches. Try tightening your turning chain tension and double-check that you’re working into every stitch of the previous row.
* **Gaps at the Edges:** This is a common issue with double crochet and taller stitches. You can minimize gaps by using a modified turning chain (as described above) or by blocking your finished project.
* **Uneven Edges:** This can be caused by inconsistent turning direction or variations in your stitch tension. Try to turn your work in the same direction each time, and focus on maintaining consistent tension throughout your project.

Turning for Different Shapes

The techniques discussed above primarily focus on turning for straight rows. However, turning is also essential for creating other shapes in crochet, such as circles, squares, and triangles.

* **Circles:** When working in the round, you typically don’t turn your work. Instead, you join each round with a slip stitch and continue working in the same direction. However, if you’re working a flat circle, you may need to turn at the end of some rounds to maintain a consistent stitch count and shape.
* **Squares:** When working a square, you turn at the end of each row or round, depending on whether you’re working in rows or in the round. The turning chain is essential for maintaining the square shape and preventing the edges from sloping.
* **Triangles:** Triangles can be worked in rows or in the round. When working in rows, you’ll need to decrease stitches at the beginning or end of each row to create the triangular shape. The turning chain is still important for maintaining consistent stitch height and edge definition.

Conclusion

Mastering the turn is a fundamental step in becoming a confident crocheter. By understanding the importance of the turning chain, practicing consistent tension, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create projects with clean, professional-looking edges. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different turning techniques and find what works best for you. With a little practice, you’ll be turning like a pro in no time!

Happy crocheting!