Using crochet stitch markers involves placing small clips or loops into your work to help you keep track of specific stitches, rows, or sections.
Stitch markers are essential tools for many crochet projects, helping you stay organized and avoid mistakes, especially in patterns that involve shaping, counting, or working in the round.
Stitch markers serve various purposes:
- Marking the start/end of rounds: Crucial when working in continuous rounds like amigurumi.
- Identifying specific stitches: Such as increases, decreases, or pattern repeats.
- Counting stitches or rows: Placing markers every 10 or 20 stitches or rows can help prevent miscounts.
- Indicating the right side (RS) or wrong side (WS): Useful for patterns that aren't symmetrical.
- Joining points: Marking where different pieces connect.
How to Use Stitch Markers
The way you use a stitch marker depends on its purpose and the marker type, but a common application is marking the beginning of a row or round.
Marking Rows and Rounds
This is one of the most frequent uses, especially when working in the round or when a pattern requires specific stitch counts at the beginning or end of rows.
- At the start of a new row/round: Once you complete a row and turn your work (or finish a round), you place a marker in the very first stitch of the next row or round you are about to work into.
- Working the row/round: You then crochet as normal down your row or around your round.
- Repeating the process: When you reach the next side or complete the round, you repeat the same process by marking the first stitch of your new row or round (as indicated in the reference). The marker from the previous row/round can then be moved up to the new first stitch.
Other Common Uses
- Marking Increase or Decrease Points: Place a marker in the stitch just before or after where you are instructed to increase or decrease.
- Identifying Pattern Repeats: If a pattern has a section that repeats, mark the beginning of that repeat section.
- Counting Large Numbers of Stitches: For wide projects, place a marker every 25, 50, or 100 stitches to make counting easier.
- Saving Your Place: If you need to put down your work mid-row and are unsure which stitch is next, place a marker in the active loop or the next stitch you need to work into.
Types of Stitch Markers
Choosing the right stitch marker depends on your preference and the project type.
| Marker Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Locking Markers | Small plastic pins that clip open and closed. | Securely marking stitches/rows, rounds. |
| Split Ring Markers | Open plastic or metal rings with a split that can slip onto a stitch. | Can be used mid-row, less secure. |
| Bulb Pin Markers | Look like tiny safety pins. | Can be used like locking markers. |
| Scrap Yarn | A short length of contrasting yarn tied through a stitch or around the work. | Simple, cheap, but can be less secure. |
How to Place a Stitch Marker
Most stitch markers are placed directly into or through a stitch. For example, when marking the first stitch of a row, you typically insert the marker through both loops of that stitch. For marking spaces or around posts, you might loop the marker around the relevant section.
Using stitch markers consistently can significantly improve the accuracy and enjoyment of your crochet projects.
