When it comes to crocheting I just cannot learn enough! When I learn a new method I get so excited I cannot wait to try it out. To be honest I go overboard when it comes to my craft. I would crochet 24/7 if my schedule would allow it. I want to master every new technique I come across. If you feel this passionately, then you are going to love this post.

Now I am aware there are several ways to start your first foundation row, but the one I would like to share with you today is the Japanese Foundation Row, and I hope it comes easy to you.

When I first learned this method way back in the year 2001 when I was working to get my Instructor certification through the Craft Yarn Council of America; at first I had trouble learning it. For this reason, I thought I would go through and explain it how I do in my classes, for your benefit as well as mine. I truly believe you never really know something until you can explain it to another person.

This is one of those techniques that will actually make your larger crocheting projects faster to work when you are crocheting the edging. For example afghans, tablecloths, doilies, etc. become much easier to work the border. It quickly became a permanent part of any large project I crochet – and if it is new to you I know you will discover its usefulness also.

Japanese Foundation Row

Step 1: The Japanese Foundation Row starts out like any chain so I am going to start off with crocheting 20 chains.

Step 2: You will want to flip you chain over on the side you will then see these little humps just like in the picture below. This is called the back ridge of the chain.

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Step 3: Crochet a sc into the second back ridge of the chain, and then into each one across. You should have 19 sc when you are done.

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Now I want you to crochet ten rows of sc and then fold you piece in half. You will now see what is so unique about this stitch. The top and bottom will look exactly the same.

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Now pause and just imagine the next time you are crocheting an edging. You will not have that dreaded foundation row to get through. You know – the one at the bottom of your afghan that is so hard to decipher where your stitches go. By mastering this technique your life just got easier and this bundle of yarn is now a finished creation.

I hope you enjoy working the Japanese foundation Row. Please tell me if you already knew this stitch and if so; how you like it. If not please try it and let me know what you think.

Until next week keep those hooks flying.