Designing an Edging

Adding an edging makes a massive difference to any finished item, giving it that little extra va va voom, whether it is a crochet cushion, throw or clothing. Go that extra mile with an edging and lift your crochet work making it something special to be proud. If you are making a gift with a beautiful edging the person receiving it will know you have gone that extra mile for them.

An edging can be as simple or complicated as you like and will frame your finished design. Or you can make the edging the main part of your design and this works particularly well if you are making a simple design.

What type of edgings?

Ruffle – can look very pretty and these are deceptively simple to make. Make a row of double crochet (SC). On the next row work 4 dc into each dc of the previous row, then continue making rows of dc’s on dc. Add some colourful stripes and your cushion throw or waistcoat will lookamazing.

Stitch lengthwise – make your edging by joining on to the last row of your work and create an edging row on row around your work.

Stitch horizontal - You can also make an edging separately by making a number of chains for the width of edging you want and by working horizontally. Carry on until your edging is the length you need, then attach by sewing on to your work or slip stitch together. This creates a completely different look to your work.

Plain stripes – use the colors of your project to create stripes. Make this edging special by working into the back loops only on all or rows or alternative rows to create a very pretty ribbed effect. Make uneven rows of colours or switch between trebles and double crochet (SC’s) rows.

Small or large edging – to create a frame for your main work, with a few simple stripes and a final row of shells stitches. This looks lovely on baby blankets. Depending on the size of your project make shells by working into every 3^rd or 4^th stitch (1dc 1htr 3tr 1htr 1dc).

Tassel it – add a few simple rows of a stripe edging, then add a final row of tassels, using the yarn of your work. You can add tassels to the corners only or all around. Be warned tassels use up a lot of yarn! To see how I used these edgings visit.....