How to avoid holes on the edges – DC & TR – Tips & Tricks

When a crochet project is made, we usually follow a pattern. This is the conventional way of crocheting. There are times when blending alternative methods with conventional crochet brings in higher aesthetics. How and when to use these alternative methods is the key. As per my knowledge on the subject, I will try my level best to share my learnings under the category of tips and tricks. To begin with, when we work in tall stitches, we get gaps/ holes on the edges. There is a very simple way to avoid these holes.

While working on taller stitches, we finish row 1, make turning chain and start with the specified stitch in the 2nd stitch from the hook. This method leaves us with a prominent holes/gaps near the edges at the beginning of each row. Below images with double crochet stitch represent conventional crochet method.

To avoid these holes, instead of working in conventional way, insert hook in the 2nd chain (on turning chain) from the hook and pull up first loop on the hook (refer below image), then insert hook in the 2nd stitch of row 1 (as marked in the below image) to pull up another loop. You will have 3 loops on the hook. Finish the DC stitch and continue further on the row. 

Follow the same method at the beginning of the each row, you won’t have any holes in the project. (Refer below image )

Similarly, while working in treble crochet in conventional way, you will see holes near the edges. Refer below image for the same.

To avoid holes in TR stitch, insert hook in the 2nd chain from the hook (on turning chain) and pull up first loop (refer below image), insert hook in the 3rd chain from the hook (on turning chain) and pull up anther loop (refer below image). For 3rd loop insert hook in the 2nd stitch of row 1 (refer below image). You have 4 loops on the hook, finish TR stitch and continue further in the row.

The end result on the project will be without any holes.