If you’ve ever finished a beautiful crochet garment or blanket only to feel like the final seams look a bit "handmade" (and not in the way you wanted), the Mattress Stitch  is the technique you need to master. While it’s often associated with knitting, it is an absolute game-changer for crochet. It creates an invisible, flat, and professional-looking seam that allows your stitch work to take center stage. Why Use the Mattress Stitch? Most crochet joining methods—like the slip

YO twice, insert hook in st, YO and pull up a loop (4 loops on hook), [YO, pull through 2 loops] 3 times.

[YO twice, insert hook around post of indicated st, YO and pull up a loop, (YO and pull through 2 loops) twice] (2 loops on hook). [YO twice, insert hook around post of next st, YO and pull up a loop, (YO and pull through 2 loops) twice] (3 loops on hook). YO and pull through all remaining 3 loops.

Tutorial: Foundation Linked Treble Crochet (fltr) Note: US Crochet Terms. The rhythm of this stitch is different. We are trading "Yarn Overs" for "Pulling Up Loops." It feels more like Tunisian crochet in vertical columns. First fltr of a round or row: Ch 4.  (The first 3 chains act as the height; the 4th is where you start). Insert hook into the 2nd  chain from hook, pull up a loop. Insert hook into the 3rd  chain from hook, pull up a loop. Insert hook into the 4th  chain fr

📋 The "Short Loop" Gauge Swatch Method: An Alternative Technique This method allows you to knit every row without joining in the round. It requires only circular needles (or double-pointed needles). Step 1: Preparation Cast On: Cast on enough stitches to allow for accurate measurement. If the pattern calls for 20 stitches over 4 inches, aim for 25-26 stitches to ensure you can measure away from the edges. First Row: Knit the first row. Your working yarn will now be at th

Sometimes, you might want to crochet at a different gauge than the one specified in the pattern. Whether it's because you're using a different yarn or hook size, or your natural crochet tension differs, adjusting a pattern to your gauge is a valuable skill. To ensure your project turns out the correct size for your gauge, you may need to adjust the pattern. Here’s how to do it: Wait! Do You Want to Automate Adjusting Your Gauge? The Poppy Shop Crochet Gauge Converter  makes a

Ever found the perfect ribbing pattern—like a lovely Swiss rib  or a classic waffle rib —only to realize your desired garment width...

1x1 ribbing is a fundamental and useful technique for machine knitters, offering a specific set of benefits that differ from other types...

Silver Reed machines  (Singer, Knitmaster, Studio, Empisal, Elna) often use interchangeable ribbers. The primary compatibility factor is...

When you're knitting on a machine, a clean, even start to a ribbed project can make all the difference. While it might seem a bit tricky...

Why Use a Provisional Cast On? Ever wished you could try on your sweater before committing to the final bind off? Or wanted to add a perfectly integrated border to your shawl? The provisional cast on is the answer! This technique gives you the flexibility you need for professional-looking projects, and we'll show you how to do it. The provisional cast on might sound intimidating, but it's a game-changer for knitters. It allows you to create a row of stitches that can be easil

Have you ever finished a knitted project and wished you could add a little something extra? A pop of color, a small motif, or even just a...