Photo shows where to make 2nd dc in a dc crochet row
This photo and explanation tell what to do if the first and second stitches of the row are double crochet stitches and the pattern is not calling for any increasing on the edges.
When the chain-3 that begins a double crochet row counts as the first double crochet of the row, then the second double crochet of that row will be made in the second stitch (not in the stitch at the base of the chain-3 .. because that stitch at the base of the chain-3 goes with the chain-3, counting as the first stitch of the row).
If a crocheter accidentally makes the second double crochet of the row in the stitch at the base of the chain-3, it will incorrectly increase the number of stitches in the row (which will usually throw off the design of the piece and can make the piece increasingly wider accidentally if this continues for row after row; a common problem of beginners). See the marking on the photo below for the correct spot in which to make the 2nd dc of the row:
Photo of dc row, where to make 2nd dc of row. See crochet.sandimarshall.com
The photo above has a yellow circle at the spot where the crochet hook would be inserted under the top loop of the dc in which the 2nd dc will be made, proceeding to make that 2nd double crochet in that spot.
You can see on the photo above, the chain-3 made that counts as the first double crochet of the row and the yellow circle marking the spot where the second double crochet will be made.
Of course, there can be many variables for crochet rows depending on the exact stitches that will be in a row for a crochet design. This photo is showing what to do if the first and second stitches of the row are double crochet stitches where the pattern is not calling for any increasing on the edges.
Common Crochet Abbreviations for Terms Used in This How To:
ch = chain, ch-3 = chain 3, chs = chains, dc = double crochet
Explanation above written by Sandi Marshall from her own long-time experience with crocheting. Photo is by Sandi Marshall.
Related How To:
How to Start a Row of Double Crochet
