How To Crochet Straight Edges
Ever notice how the sides of your crochet rows can look a little uneven — almost zig-zagged — even when you’ve counted every turning chain correctly?
It’s totally normal, but with a few small adjustments, you can keep your edges straight and smooth, no matter whether you’re working single, half double, double, or treble crochet.
Stacked Stitches Hack
There are a few ways to create smoother side edges, but this is my favourite.
When you’re working with taller stitches — like half double, double, or treble crochet — try using a stacked single crochet instead of a turning chain. It gives your edges a clean, straight finish. The taller the stitch, the more single crochets you’ll stack to match its height.
🪡 Stacked Single Crochet Reference Chart
Instructions
At the beginning of a new row, skip the turning chain — don’t chain at all.
Work one single crochet into the first stitch of the row.
Insert your hook into the left vertical bar of that single crochet and make another single crochet on top.
These two stacked single crochets now count as your first half double crochet (or the first stitch of your row).
Continue working the rest of the row as usual.
Smooth edges made simple 🪡
Watch how stacking single crochets replaces the turning chain for smooth, even edges.
Ready for Satisfyingly Straight Edges? 💛
And that’s it — once you understand how to stack your stitches correctly at the beginning of each row, everything changes. No more slanting sides, no more guessing where the first stitch goes… just smooth, clean edges that make your whole project look more polished.
It might feel a little different at first, but keep practising this method and you’ll see the difference row by row. Your future blankets, scarves, and squares will thank you!
If you give this technique a try, tag me at @mouseandsparrow — I’d love to see your neat new edges.
And if you’re ready for your next beginner-friendly project, you’ll find lots waiting for you on the blog.
Happy stitching — you’re doing wonderfully. 🧶✨
What Next?
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More inspiring posts
Struggling with wonky edges in your crochet? In this tutorial, I’ll show you the easy stacked-stitch method I use to keep my edges perfectly straight — no gaps, no leaning, no guesswork. It’s a beginner-friendly fix that will instantly make your projects look cleaner and more professional.