Losing count is the quiet reason so many crochet projects go wonky. Learn to read your stitches and rows at a glance and you'll catch mistakes early, keep your edges straight, and follow any pattern with confidence.
How to count crochet stitches
Each completed stitch has a little "V" (two loops) at its top. To count the stitches in a row, look along the top edge and count the Vs from one side to the other. Don't count the loop on your hook, and be careful at the ends — the turning chain may or may not count as a stitch depending on your pattern. If your counts keep drifting, see our guide on crochet getting wider or narrower.
How to count crochet rows
| Stitch | How to count rows |
|---|---|
| Single crochet | Count the horizontal ridges/bumps up the side of the fabric |
| Half double / double crochet | Count the tall posts (the vertical bars) up one edge |
| In the round | Count the rounds outward from the centre, or use a row counter |
A handy trick: count the rows on the side of your work, where each row forms a clear ridge or post. Hold the fabric up to the light if the stitches are dense.
Counting in the round (amigurumi)
Amigurumi is worked in a continuous spiral, so there's no obvious "end" to each round. The fix is a stitch marker: pop it into the first stitch of the round and move it up as you start each new round. Now you always know where you are — essential for getting your increases and decreases in the right place. See our working in the round guide.
Why counting matters
Counting at the end of each row or round catches a gained or dropped stitch immediately, before it snowballs into a lopsided shape. It's the single best habit for neat, even crochet — and it makes following patterns far less stressful, because the stitch count at the end of each round (e.g. Rnd 3: …(18)) becomes a checkpoint you can trust.
Practise on a simple make
Amigurumi and granny squares are great for building the counting habit. Browse our amigurumi patterns or grab a free pattern.
Shop beginner patterns →Frequently asked questions
How do you count crochet stitches?
Count the "V" shapes along the top of the row, from one edge to the other. Don't count the loop on your hook, and check whether your turning chain counts as a stitch.
How do you count crochet rows?
For single crochet, count the horizontal ridges up the side; for taller stitches, count the posts. In the round, count outward from the centre or use a row counter.
How do I keep count in amigurumi?
Use a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round and move it up as you go, since amigurumi is worked in a continuous spiral with no obvious round break.
Why do I keep losing count when crocheting?
Usually because there's no marker or end-of-row check. Mark the first stitch of each round and count at the end of every row to stay on track.
Counting plus consistent tension keeps your work neat — see our guide on even crochet tension and the full beginner's guide.
