In both our Tunisian crochet Facebook group and our email inbox, there has been a lot of talk and questions about how to get a clean edge when it comes to Tunisian crochet projects.
That edge stitch trips up a lot of crocheters (it did us at first!) and often makes your project look really lopsided.
A fellow crocheter shared the video below of an easy way to help out with that edge stitch. I often use stitch markers on both my Tunisian crochet and regular crochet patterns just to make sure I'm crocheting in the right stitch.
Have you tried this technique?
Here are a few more tips to help with the sometimes elusive and frustrating edge stitch.
Tunisian Crochet Edge Stitch
When working in Tunisian crochet, maintaining a neat edge can sometimes be a bit tricky. However, the edge stitch (often referred to as the "last stitch" or "end stitch") can provide a cleaner look.
Here's how to do it:
Starting: Begin your forward pass as you normally would by pulling up loops in each stitch across the row.
Working the Last Stitch: When you reach the end of the row, you'll notice there's a vertical bar and a chain-like strand running along the edge.
To create a clean edge:
a. Insert your hook under both the vertical bar and the chain-like strand at the end of the row.
b. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
Returning: Continue your return pass as usual.
By consistently working under both the vertical bar and the chain-like strand, you'll produce a clean and smooth edge that mirrors the beginning edge of your work.
Tips for a Clean Edge in Tunisian Crochet
Maintain Consistent Tension
It's essential to maintain consistent tension throughout your work, especially on the edges. Uneven tension can cause your edges to become wavy or distorted.
Block Your Work
Once your project is finished, blocking can help even out any inconsistencies in your edges and give your work a polished look. To block, dampen your crochet piece and pin it to a flat surface, stretching it slightly into shape. Allow it to dry completely.
Edge with Traditional Crochet
If you find your Tunisian crochet edges still aren't as neat as you'd like, consider adding a border using traditional crochet stitches. This can help conceal any imperfections and add a decorative touch.
By paying attention to the edge stitch and using these tips, you can achieve a clean and neat edge in your Tunisian crochet projects.
