How to Crochet Corner Start Diagonal

If you're tired of working on afghan in rows, try working on the diagonal. You will increase each row until it is as big as you want it from corner to corner, and then decrease with each row. As you work, each row gets shorter and finishes more quickly so it seems you are zipping along to the last stitch. Follow these steps to crochet on the diagonal.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin by chaining 5, then work 3 double-crochet stitches in the fifth chain from the hook. The 3 double-crochet stitches make 1 block.

2. Chain 5and turn, then work 3 double-crochet stitches in the fourth chain from the hook.

3. Work a slip stitch around the first chain of the row before, chain 3 and then work 3 double-crochet stitches in the same chain space as the slip stitch. This row now has 2 blocks.

4. Chain 5 and turn. Using the same method as in the row before, complete 3 blocks.

5. Continue, increasing by 1 block in each row until the desired maximum length is reached.

6. Start decreasing on the next row by chaining one and turning. Work a slip stitch into each double-crochet stitch of the first block in the previous row. Chaining 3 and work the rest of the row as before. This will decrease by 1 block in each row.

7. Continue until only 1 block remains. Fasten off and weave in the ends.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to work your project in smaller pieces, make a number of squares using the corner start diagonal method, and then sew the pieces together to complete your project.
• If you want a more finished edge, work a row of slip stitches backward around the project before finishing.
• Large pieces such as afghans become heavy as you work, and there is a danger of letting the weight of the project tighten your stitches and misshape your project. Watch your gauge as you work.

Resources

• For help in working different kinds of crochet stitches, visit Crochet Pattern Central.