This is quick tutorial for those of you who crochet out there. Many crochet motifs require that you begin with a series of chain stitches and join with a slip stitch to form a ring. The next round usually requires many times the number of stitches to be worked into that ring. I'm not sure about your experience, but mine is rarely enjoyable and sometimes sloppy. The technique I'm outlining allows you to omit the original chain round and work the subsequent round in a much larger space without losing the effect required for the motif.

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Begin by making a loop about 1.5" in diameter. The tail should hang down on the left as you will be working stitches over it as you go. If you crochet left handed, please reverse these directions. Make sure the tail hangs down at least a couple inches.


This is the trickiest part. Using your crochet hook, make a loop with the working end of the yarn (the part attached to the ball). You should now begin to follow the directions for the first round of stitches. In my case, I am going to work 6 single crochets. If you are working a granny square, you'll probably begin with a chain 3 then three double crochets.


Work the entire round until you reach the point where the pattern indicates that you should join it with a slip stitch.


Grab the tail with your left hand, holding the stitches and needle securely with your right.


Tug the tail until the stitches have been pulled together. You can now join the round with a slip stitch and proceed with the rest of the pattern.