Learn to crochet
How to count crochet stitches and rows
To count crochet stitches, count the V shapes along the top of the row, one V per stitch, and skip the loop on the hook. Check the pattern notes to see whether the turning chain counts as a stitch. To count rows, count the stitch posts in a vertical line, or the ridges for single crochet.
By the crochetpatterns.io editorial team · Reviewed · Editorial policy
How do you count crochet stitches in a row?
Every finished stitch has a sideways V on top, made of the front and back loops. Count those, not the posts below them.
- Lay the work flat with the last row facing you.
- Find the V on top of the first stitch; if the pattern says the turning chain counts as a stitch, start with the top of that chain.
- Count each V along the row, touching it with a blunt needle or the hook tip.
- Don't count the loop on the hook or the slip knot.
- Compare with the stitch count the pattern gives at the end of the row.
How do you count crochet rows?
Count rows up one vertical column of stitches. Double crochet and treble crochet rows are easy: each tall post is one row. Single crochet rows are short and dense, so count the horizontal ridges, or count up the edge where each row's turning chain sits. On long projects, clip a stitch marker to every tenth row.
Why is my stitch count wrong?
A count that grows or shrinks usually comes from the first or last stitch of the row.
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| One stitch too many each row | Working into the base of the turning chain when it already counts as a stitch | Skip the first stitch when the turning chain counts |
| One stitch too few each row | Missing the last stitch, often the top of the previous turning chain | Work into the top of the turning chain at the end of the row |
| Edges slant or wave | Counts changing at the edges | Mark the first and last stitch of every row |
| Round has too many stitches | Extra increase or working into the joining slip stitch | Place a marker in the first stitch of each round |
How do you count stitches when crocheting in the round?
Place a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round and move it up as you go. Count the Vs around the round up to the marker; for spirals worked without joining, count from the marker to the stitch before it. Most amigurumi and hat patterns add a fixed number of stitches each round, so a quick check is that each round has that many more stitches than the last.
Patterns to practise on
How to crochet a classic granny square
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 35 yd
Free pattern
Easy moss stitch crochet dishcloth
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 100 yd
Free pattern
Simple half double crochet baby beanie in the round
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 130 yd
Free pattern
Quick round crochet coaster in cotton
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 4.5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 18 yd
Free pattern
Frequently asked questions
Does the turning chain count as a stitch?
It depends on the pattern. Chain 3 for double crochet often counts; chain 1 for single crochet usually doesn't. The pattern notes should say.
Should I count stitches every row?
Count every row while you learn and on any row with increases or decreases; on long plain rows, counting every few rows is enough.
What is the easiest way to keep count?
Use stitch markers at the start and end of rows and a row counter, and write the count down whenever you stop.