There are a couple of different methods you can count crochet stitches and rows, including with a stitch counter or manually.
In this practical guide, we take you through each method with individual steps on how you count the rows of your crochet piece.
How To Count Crochet Rows Manually
If you lost count of the stitches and rows in your crochet project, then you can simply count the rows manually.
Step 1: Align The Ridges Horizontal
Put your crochet piece flat on a table or another clean surface, so the ridges are horizontal. Make sure that you have enough light to clearly see them.
Check that the ridges of your work are in horizontal rows as this will make it much easier to count.
Step 2: Stretch Out Your Piece
Next, try to stretch your piece gently, so you can see the ridges and the holes between the rows better.
The holes where you went through with your crochet hook should be easy to spot as these are your stitches. Some people find it easier to look for the small “V” shapes that the stitches create.
When you see a horizontal line that protrudes slightly, then this is a single row of the back of your work.
Step 3: Count The Rows Individually
Start counting the horizontal lines at the bottom of your piece but make sure to leave out the foundation row.
Slowly count each row. You can use a crochet hook or a ruler and move them up with each line you already counted.
It’s a good idea to look along the side of your piece because this usually has clearer row shapes.
Step 4: Double Your Row Count
The ridges you counted are only the back stitches of your work.
However, the front stitches are also rows which means that you need to double your row count to get to the correct number of rows.
Some people find it easier to count the front stitches that look like horizontal dashes. If you prefer to count these stitches instead of the ridges, then you still need to double the rows.
If your last row ends on the left, then make sure to add one row as you started on the left-hand side.
How To Count Crochet Rows With A Stitch Marker
It is easy to get lost with crochet crows, so it can be useful to have a visual marker that shows you where each row is.
Here are a couple of different ways you can count rows with stitch markers.
If you easily lose track of your row count or you have to put your crochet work down regularly, then this is also a great way to keep track of the rows while you crochet.
Step 1: Tie A Piece Of Yarn At The End Of Each Row
If you are new to crochet, then tying a piece of yarn at the end of each finished row is a great method to ensure you keep track of your rows.
Just crochet your rows as normal. Once you are done with a row, take a small piece of different colored yarn and tie it to the last stitch of the row.
You can do this after every single year or after a set number of rows, depending on what feels comfortable for you.
Step 2: Add A Stitch Marker At A Set Number Of Rows
Tying a yarn piece at the end of each row can be time-consuming. In order to save yourself some time, you can use a stitch marker and place it at a set number of rows.
Simply crochet your rows as normal and count 5 or 10 rows. Then place a stitch marker at the end of your fifth or tenth row.
It’s a good idea to keep track of your row counts in a notebook or on a piece of paper. This is the best method for counting crochet rows if you have a large crochet project.
Step 3: Count The Markers Or Yarn
Once you complete your rows, you can then count the markers or pieces of yarn.
Simply count the individual pieces of yarn and this will give your final number of rows. If you used stitch markers to count your rows, then add up all the number of rows.
After you are finished with the row count, you can remove the yarn pieces and stitch markers and use them for your next crochet piece.
How To Count Round Crochet Rows
If your crochet work is worked in rounds, then it can be challenging to get to the right row count. Here are some options that can help you keep track of your crochet rows in the round.
Option 1: Start Counting In The Center
With crochet items worked in the round, you can see a lot of holes where your crochet hook went through.
Stretch your piece slightly and then start counting the rows of holes. Make sure to move straight outwards working your way to the edge.
You are only counting the rows in the radius of your work.
Option 2: Count The Circles
Instead of counting the holes, you can also count the individual circles that move out of the center of your piece.
Start with the smallest ring in the middle and then move outwards. This method is more challenging as it can be difficult to see the exact spot where a new row starts.
Option 3: Count Each Ridge
If you are in a hurry, then you can count each bump or ridge going across your work horizontally.
Place your crochet piece horizontally on a flat surface. Then use your crochet hook and move it gently over each bump and add this to your count.
Final Thoughts
There are a number of different ways to count crochet rows, from using a stitch counter to counting manually.
Crochet is one of the most calming and therapeutic crafts out there. It’s a simple dance of stitches, working in rounds, and forgetting the outside world as you create something beautiful.
Hi, my name is Nancy Adriane and I have been crocheting in my free time for almost 10 years.
I first picked up a hook when I was studying in college, stressed and frustrated with the pressures put on me by people around me. The workload got too much, and I desperately needed an outlet.
I tried everything – socializing, cooking, watching TV… nothing helped with the stress. I was too anxious to read a good book and quickly lost hope of keeping on track for the school year.
Enter, crochet. I fell in love as soon as I saw my holey, bobbly hat that I made on a whim. It was too loose to be warm, but I wore that hat every day the entire winter until I learned to make something of higher quality.
