Have you ever wanted to modify a pattern or create your own?
If so, you’ve probably found yourself trying to figure out your foundation chain number. Although the process of figuring out how many chains to crochet your foundation chain is unique to every situation, it’s pretty easy to figure out once you know the steps. That’s my objective today – share with you exactly what bits of information you need and how to figure out the number of chains you need to start your project.
You’ll Learn About
- Why figuring out the foundation chain is different for every person and every project.
- What variables come into play
- What pieces of information you need to know before you can do any calculating
- How to figure out your foundation chain when you don’t have a stitch multiple
- How to figure out your foundation chain when you do have a stitch multiple
Mentioned in this Episode
Equations
When you don’t have a stitch multiple to worry about…
Target width / width of 10 “practice chains” = a number (sets of chains)
Number sets of chains x 10 (practice chains) = Number of chains you need to make for your foundation
Here’s an example…
You want to make a blanket that’s 40″ wide. 40 is your “target width”.
Step One
You crochet 10 chains and measure. It measures 2.5″. 10 is your “practice chain number” and 2.5 is the width of practice chains.
Step Two
40 / 2.5 = 16 (sets of chains)
Step Three
16 x 10 = 160
So in this example you would crochet 160 chains for your foundation.
When you do have a stitch multiple to worry about…
Target width / width of chain for one stitch multiple = a number (sets of chains)
Number sets of chains x stitch multiple = Number of chains you need to make for your foundation
Here’s an example…
You want to make a scarf that’s 15″ wide. 15 is your target width. Your stitch multiple is 8.
Step One
You crochet 8 chains and measure. It measures 2″. 8 is your stitch multiple and 2 is the width of chain for one stitch multiple.
Step Two
15 / 2 = 7.5 (sets of chains)
Step Three
7.5 x 8 = 60
So in this example you would crochet 60 chains for your foundation. If your stitch multiple includes a “+ some number” on the end, add it to the answer from step three. For example, for a multiple of 8 + 3 in this scenario, you would add 3 to 60 for a total of 63 chains in your foundation.
On the show, Brittany aims to inspire you and help you grow in your craft. Through her own stories and the stories of special guests, you’ll discover tips and tricks to improve your crochet and knitting skills and find inspiration to make something that makes you happy.
When you want to kick back and learn from yarn industry experts, grab some yarn, your favorite cozy beverage and turn on The BHooked Podcast. There’s never a shortage of all things crochet, knitting or yarn. Listen & subscribe on your favorite podcast player!
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I’m always looking for knowledgeable and inspirational people in the crochet and knitting community to chat with on the show!