How to Count Crochet Stitches

The success of a crocheted item is strongly based on counting the stitches correctly. As you crochet an item row by row, you must accurately count the stitches that you make. Neglecting to do so will result in irregular rows, misshapen articles and a crocheted clothing piece that won't fit properly. Start at the beginning by learning how to count crochet stitches in the base chain of your item.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Crochet in the Round

1. 
   Stitch Post

   Count the stitches or loop shapes starting at the crochet hook, moving backwards to the first stitch you made on the base chain. The initial slip knot will be at the back of the true stitches.

2. 
   Post

   Notice the post or base of a stitch when you make a double or treble crochet. This is one part of the stitch that you can use when counting your stitches. When making a round piece, this post is where you will attach a stitch marker.

3. 
   Loops at Row Top

   Count the posts by placing your thumb on the first one that is situated at the place where your hook is. Count out from your hook, moving your thumb down the line of stitches.

4. Count the top of a crocheted piece in progress by looking at the top loops. Put your thumb on the post and count the loops as you move away from the hook.

Row Crochet

5. 
   Stitch One

   Start your straight row by forming a slip knot. Start with the first chain stitch and count it as number one as you crochet.

6. 
   Five Stitches

   Count the stitches out from the hook.

7. Count out from the hook row by row. Be sure to count when you finish a row to see if you have the correct number of stitches. It is easier to take one row apart than to unravel an entire piece.

8. 
   Flat Rows

   Lay a flat piece on a table top and count the posts or loops at the top of the last row you have crocheted.

9. Increase stitches on a row according to pattern directions. Remember to count each increase as extra stitches. For example, when crocheting two double crochets in the first stitch of a row, count two stitches.

Tips & Warnings

• When crocheting a complex piece, you can write down the row number and the count that you get for each row. This is a way to double check yourself.
• If you forget to count one row and it has a mistake, your entire piece will be inaccurate.