Want to learn how to easily count stitches in crochet?
Grab your stitch markers, because we’re here to help!
No matter how long you’ve been crocheting, whether working in rounds or rows, you might have asked yourself some of these questions…
- Does my starting chain count as a stitch?
- Where do I join in the round?
- Where do I stop when working in rows?
If you’re tired of trying to figure this out AFTER your project has too few (or too many) stitches, we’ve got a tip that will help!
When working in rounds:


If your starting chain counts as a stitch:
- Place 1 stitch marker into the top of your last chain.
- This will mark the top of your first stitch, and this is where you will join at the end of your round!
If your starting chain does not count as a stitch:
- Ignore the chains!
- Place 1 stitch marker into the loop on your hook. This will mark the top of your first stitch, and this is where you will join at the end of your round!
Give it a try…
When working in rows:


If your starting chain does not count as a stitch (pictured above):
- Ignore the chains!
- Place 1 stitch marker into the loop on your hook. This will mark the top of your first stitch, and this is where you will join at the end of your round!
If your starting chain counts as a stitch:
- Place 1 stitch marker into the top of your last chain!
- This will mark the top of your first stitch, and this is where you will join at the end of your round!
Give it a try…
After reading this post, do you feel more comfortable counting your crochet stitches?
Think you’ll be able to easily count stitches in crochet now?
Click Here to start a conversation in our community!
Peace + Love + Crochet
Salena