If your scarf, blanket or dishcloth is slowly turning into a triangle, you're not alone — accidentally gaining or losing stitches at the ends of rows is the most common beginner mistake. Here's exactly why it happens and how to keep your edges perfectly straight.
Why crochet gets wider (you're adding stitches)
You're working into the turning chain when you shouldn't
At the start of a row, the turning chain sometimes counts as a stitch and sometimes doesn't. If your pattern says it doesn't count, but you work a stitch into it anyway, you add one stitch every row — and the piece grows into a triangle.
You're working two stitches into the first stitch
It's easy to put an extra stitch into that first stitch of the row. Look closely and work only one stitch into each stitch across.
Why crochet gets narrower (you're losing stitches)
You're missing the very last stitch
The last stitch of a row is the easiest to miss because it can be hard to see. Always work into that final stitch (or the top of the turning chain if it counts as one). Missing it loses a stitch every row, shrinking the piece.
You're skipping the first stitch
If the turning chain counts as a stitch, you skip the first real stitch. If it doesn't count, you must work into that first stitch. Mixing these up adds or drops stitches.
The two-second fix: count and mark
| Habit | How it helps |
|---|---|
| Count your stitches at the end of every row | Catches a gain or loss immediately, before it adds up |
| Place a stitch marker in the first and last stitch | Shows you exactly where each row begins and ends |
| Know whether your turning chain counts | Tells you whether to work into the first stitch or skip it |
| Work into the back bumps of your foundation chain | Gives a tidy, easy-to-count starting edge |
How to tell if the turning chain counts
As a rule of thumb: for single crochet, the turning chain (usually ch 1) does not count as a stitch — so you work into the first stitch. For taller stitches like double crochet, the turning chain (ch 2–3) often does count — so you skip the first stitch and work into the top of the turning chain at the end. Your pattern will tell you which; when in doubt, pick one approach and be consistent. Learn more in our guide to reading a crochet pattern.
Practise straight edges
A simple flat project is the perfect place to master even edges. Grab a free pattern or browse our beginner collection.
Shop beginner patterns →Frequently asked questions
Why is my crochet getting wider?
You're adding stitches at the ends of rows — usually by working into the turning chain when it shouldn't count, or putting two stitches into the first stitch. Count each row and work only one stitch per stitch.
Why is my crochet getting narrower?
You're losing stitches, most often by missing the last stitch of the row. Always work into that final stitch and count at the end of every row.
Does the turning chain count as a stitch?
For single crochet, usually no. For taller stitches like double crochet, usually yes. Your pattern will specify; the key is to be consistent.
How do I keep my crochet edges straight?
Count your stitches every row, mark the first and last stitch, and know whether your turning chain counts so you always start and end in the right place.
Straight edges come down to one habit: counting. Once it's automatic, your rectangles stay rectangles. New to counting and tension? Our skill level guide recommends forgiving first projects to practise on.
