Smooth Side 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.
