The Turning Chain in Crochet Explained (Maintaining Row Height)
Ever noticed your crochet edges looking uneven or slanted? 😩
That small step you might be skipping—the turning chain—is actually the reason!
Many beginners ignore or misunderstand it, which leads to:
❌ uneven rows
❌ shrinking edges
❌ messy projects
In this guide, you’ll learn what the turning chain is, why it matters, and how to use it correctly so your crochet looks clean and professional ✨
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What Is a Turning Chain in Crochet?
A turning chain is the chain stitches you make at the end of a row before turning your work.
👉 Its purpose:
✔ To bring your yarn to the correct height for the next row
Think of it as a “step-up” to the next row level
Why Turning Chain Is Important
Skipping or doing it wrong causes:
❌ Uneven row height
❌ Edges pulling inward
❌ Crooked projects
Using it correctly gives:
✔ Even rows
✔ Straight edges
✔ Clean, professional finish 💖
Working the Turning Chain
You'll know if you forget to use turning chains. Your new crochet row will be compressed at the first stitch and your project won't be square.
Turning Chain Lengths Guide (Very Important)
The length of your turning chain will depend on the height of the stitch you're crocheting after it. Tall stitches require more chain stitches in the chain; short stitches require fewer.
Different stitches need different turning chains:
- Single crochet stitch: A single chain stitch is usually used as a turning chain when working rows of single crochet.
- Half double crochet stitch: The turning chain is typically two stitches.
- Double crochet stitch: The turning chain is typically three stitches.
- Treble crochet stitch: The turning chain is typically four stitches.
- Double treble crochet stitch: The turning chain is typically five stitches. 👉 This keeps your row height consistent
- Note that these are only suggestions; feel free to use a turning chain of any length that achieves your objective for the project you're crocheting.
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Does the Turning Chain Count as a Stitch?
This is where beginners get confused 😳
👉 It depends on the pattern:
✔ If it counts:
- You skip the first stitch
- Work into the next stitch
✔ If it doesn’t count:
- You crochet into the first stitch
👉 Always check your pattern!
Common Beginner Mistakes
1. Skipping Turning Chain
→ Rows become uneven
2. Wrong Chain Height
→ Project becomes tight or loose
3. Forgetting Whether It Counts
→ Extra or missing stitches
4. Tight Turning Chain
→ Edge curls inward
How to Fix Turning Chain Issues
✔ Keep chains loose and even
✔ Count your stitches every row
✔ Use stitch markers for edges
✔ Practice on small swatches
BONUS: Make Crochet Easier
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✔ What to learn first
✔ Stitch guide
✔ Step-by-step progress plan
✨ Final Thoughts
The turning chain may seem small—but it makes a huge difference 🧶
👉 Master this one technique
👉 And your crochet will instantly look better
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