How to count crochet stitches for beginners

Counting crochet stitches sounds simple until you are halfway through a row and wondering where that extra stitch came from.

If your project is getting wider, shrinking, leaning, or looking uneven, your stitch count is usually the first thing to check. Learning how to count crochet stitches will help your rows stay straight, your rounds stay even, and your finished project match the pattern.

Quick answer
To count crochet stitches, look at the top of each stitch and count the V-shaped loops across the row or round. Each V usually counts as one stitch. Do not count the loop on your hook. Always check the pattern notes to see if the turning chain counts as a stitch.

Why stitch counting matters

Counting your stitches helps your crochet project stay the right shape and size. If you accidentally add stitches, your project may start getting wider. If you skip stitches, it may start getting smaller.

Checking your stitch count as you go can save you from having to rip out several rows later. It is especially helpful for beginner crochet patterns, hats, blankets, bags, and anything worked in rounds.

What counts as a crochet stitch?

Most crochet stitches have a V shape at the top. When you are counting stitches, you usually count each V across the row or round.

The loop on your hook does not count as a stitch. That loop is your working loop. Start counting with the first completed stitch below your hook.

How to count stitches in a starting chain

When counting a starting chain, do not count the loop on your hook. Count each chain below the hook.

A crochet pattern may tell you to work into the second, third, or fourth chain from the hook. This usually depends on the stitch being used. For example, a single crochet pattern may start in the second chain from the hook, while a double crochet pattern may start in the third or fourth chain from the hook.

How to count basic crochet stitches

The method for counting stitches is similar for single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet. Look across the top of the row and count each V-shaped stitch. Each completed stitch usually counts as one stitch.

The main difference is the height of the stitches. Single crochet stitches are short, half double crochet stitches are a little taller, and double crochet stitches are taller still. Even though the stitch height changes, the top V is still the part you count.

It can be easy to miss the first or last stitch in a row, especially with shorter stitches like single crochet. Stitch markers can help you keep track of the edges.

Need help with the basic stitches? You can learn them in my how to single crochet tutorial and how to half double crochet tutorial.

How to count stitches in rows

When you count stitches in rows, count across the top of the row from one edge to the other. Be careful not to miss the first stitch or the last stitch.

The edge stitches are where beginners often add or lose stitches. If your project is getting wider, you may be adding an extra stitch at the end of the row. If it is getting smaller, you may be skipping the last stitch.

How to count stitches in rounds

When working in rounds, use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of each round. Move the marker up as you start each new round.

To count stitches in a round, count each stitch around until you get back to the stitch marker. This is especially helpful for hats, bags, baskets, amigurumi-style projects, and anything worked in continuous rounds.

How to count chain spaces

A chain space is the open space made by one or more chains. Patterns may call these ch-1 spaces, ch-2 spaces, or ch-3 spaces.

If a pattern tells you to work into a chain space, you usually place your hook into the open space, not into the individual chain stitches. Chain spaces are common in granny squares, mesh bags, blankets, and lace-style crochet patterns.

Does the turning chain count as a stitch?

Sometimes the turning chain counts as a stitch, and sometimes it does not. Always check the pattern notes.

If the turning chain counts as a stitch, include it in your stitch count. If the turning chain does not count as a stitch, do not count it. This is one of the most common places beginners get confused.

Do you count the loop on your hook?

No, the loop on your hook does not count as a stitch. It is your working loop.

When counting chains, rows, or rounds, start with the first completed chain or stitch below your hook.

Common stitch counting mistakes

Counting the loop on the hook
Missing the last stitch of the row
Adding an extra stitch at the edge
Working into the turning chain by mistake
Skipping the first stitch
Forgetting to move the stitch marker
Counting chain spaces as stitches when the pattern does not say to
Not checking the stitch count until several rows later

Beginner tips for keeping count

Count your stitches at the end of every row or round.
Use stitch markers to mark the first and last stitch.
Move your stitch marker up as you start each new round.
Check the pattern notes to see if the turning chain counts as a stitch.
Count slowly when you are learning.
If your project starts getting wider or smaller, stop and check your stitch count before continuing.

Frequently asked questions

Do you count the loop on your hook as a stitch?
No. The loop on your hook does not count as a stitch. Start counting from the first completed stitch or chain below your hook.

How do I know where the first stitch is?
Look for the first V-shaped stitch at the top of the row or round. If you are working in rounds, use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch so it is easier to find.

Does the turning chain count as a stitch?
Sometimes it does and sometimes it does not. Always check the pattern notes. If the turning chain counts as a stitch, include it in your stitch count. If it does not count, skip it.

Why does my crochet have more stitches than it should?
You may be adding extra stitches at the beginning or end of the row, working into the turning chain by mistake, or accidentally increasing. Count your stitches often so you can catch the mistake early.

Why does my crochet have fewer stitches than it should?
You may be skipping the first stitch, missing the last stitch, or accidentally skipping stitches in the middle of the row. Stitch markers can help you keep track.

How often should beginners count crochet stitches?
Beginners should count stitches at the end of every row or round. This helps you catch mistakes before they become bigger problems.

Beginner crochet patterns to try

Once you feel more comfortable counting stitches, try one of these beginner-friendly crochet patterns.

My basic crochet beanie pattern is a great way to practice counting stitches in rounds.
My crochet beach bag pattern is another helpful project because it uses continuous rounds, stitch markers, and chain spaces.
My half double crochet baby blanket pattern is a simple row-based project that can help you practice keeping straight edges.
My crochet produce bag pattern is a useful beginner project with open spaces and simple shaping.

Let’s connect!

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📌 Don’t forget to pin this pattern for later!
Happy crocheting! 🧶
— Melissa