Crochet Edgings

Carefully chosen crochet edgings lift any crochet project.  Traditionally we think of using crochet edgings for baby blankets but you can also add them to beautify a wide variety of crochet items.  Add them to jackets, throws, hats and scarves and they finish off a simple pattern. 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.

Use one of the colours from your project for your edging

If your crochet project has popcorns or clusters add rows of these to your edging and finish with a simple row of dc’s (sc’s) to create a stunning effect.

Use a loose slip stitch using 2 colours from your project together or use them alternatively

Ruffle edgings 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 look amazing.

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

Stitch your edging horizontally and 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.

A final row of shells stitches, 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).

To add a small simple frilly edging, use 1sl st 1ch all around

A simple picot edging adds elegance to any project. Make 3ch and sl st or dc (sc) into the first ch

Add rows of half tr’s and dc’s (sc’s) to create a contemporary look

Simple rows of tr’s (dc’s) and dc’s (sc’s) working in back loops are easy to make and create a contemporary look

Crochet edgings are not just perfect for pieces of crochet. The Victorians made crochet edgings in fine cotton thread to add to embroidered handkerchiefs, now we can add them to homemade furnishings and clothing.

Crochet scarf with acorn edging.....