How to Crochet Rug Runners

Crochet a runner for a colorful addition to a hallway.

Crocheting a rug runner is similar to making a simple afghan. There are a number of methods for crocheting a runner but working back and forth in rows is the easiest, especially for a beginning crocheter. For a twist on this idea, crochet the rug runner working lengthwise from end to end. This enables you to simultaneously make an easy fringe at the beginning and end of each row. A simple single-crochet edge on all four sides provides stability and a neat finish.

Things You'll Need

• 8 skeins cotton worsted weight yarn
• Crochet hook US size G-6
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Using the crochet hook and yarn, chain 176 stitches, starting 5 inches from the end of your yarn. You will leave a 5-inch-long yarn tail at the beginning and end of each row to form a fringe at each end of the rug runner.

2. Skip the first three chain stitches. Work single crochet stitches in each chain stitch to the end of the row. Fasten the yarn off in the final stitch. Cut the yarn with the scissors, leaving a 5-inch tail.

3. Return to the beginning of the first row. Leave a 5-inch tail as before. Make three chain stitches. Skip the first stitch of the row. Make a double crochet in the next stitch. Work a double crochet in the stitch you skipped. This complete one cross stitch.

4. Continue skipping one stitch, double crocheting in the next one, then double crocheting in the skipped stitch to the end of the row. Cut the 5-inch tail as before and fasten off the last stitch.

5. Repeat these steps, starting at the beginning of the previous row, leaving a 5-inch yarn tail, and working in the crossed double crochet stitch to the end. Always leave a 5-inch yarn tail at the end of the row.

6. Work a row of single crochet stitches in the last row when the runner is as wide as you want. About 24 to 28 inches is the usual width for a runner.

7. Attach a skein of yarn in the corner of one of the short ends of the runner. Work single crochets in the end stitches of the rows. Weave the 5-inch yarn tails into the single crochets as you work them. This secures the yarn tails while forming the fringe. Cut the yarn and fasten it at the end of the row.

8. Repeat with the other narrow end of the runner. Tug on the yarn-tail fringe to straighten and tighten the fringe.

Tips & Warnings

• The runner described is about 48 inches long including the fringe. Add or subtract stitches to make the runner as long or as short as you like. The estimated gauge is: 15 stitches equals 4 inches in length.

• Use several yarn colors to create stripes. This is a good way to use up partial skeins of yarn.

• Knot groups of the yarn tails together close to the final single-crochet stitches at the ends of the runner.