Working in Rounds: Joining vs Non-Joining in Crochet Patterns

When working on crochet patterns, especially those involving rounds, understanding the difference between joining and not joining can make a significant impact on your final product. This article explores the nuances of working in continuous rounds without joining, the benefits of joining, and how to use stitch markers to keep track of your work.

Introduction to Working in Rounds

Many crochet patterns, especially for hats or amigurumi, involve working in rounds. A round in crochet refers to a completed circle, often created using a magic ring or by chaining and joining. Depending on the pattern, you may or may not join the rounds. This choice can dramatically affect the final appearance of your project.

Understanding the Pattern Provided

The pattern provided, "Candy Corn Witch Hat Crochet Pattern", is a great example of working in continuous rounds. The instructions are clear and concise:

Pattern Instructions

Round 1: With White, make a magic ring. 6 sc in ring, 6 sc.

Round 2: 2 sc in each st around, 12 sc.

These instructions indicate that you're to make a magic ring and work 6 single crochets into it, then continue around the magic ring. The use of a magic ring ensures a seamless look, as it eliminates the need to join the rounds. However, the pattern also allows for the use of a stitch marker to help keep track of your progress.

The Importance of Stitch Markers

Stitch markers are valuable tools in crochet patterns. They help you identify the beginning of each round and maintain your count, especially when working without joining. By placing a stitch marker in the beginning of each round, you can easily keep track of where you need to start. A safety pin or any small, lightweight object can serve as a stitch marker.

The Advantages of Joining Rounds

Although the provided pattern instructs to avoid joining the rounds, there are instances where joining can be beneficial:

Seamless Look

Joining rounds can create a visible seam, which may be undesirable for some projects. If the pattern calls for a no-seam look, working in continuous rounds as instructed is crucial. However, if joining is done with a chain 1 instead of a slip stitch, it can still create a seamless appearance while helping you keep track of where each round begins.

Marking Round Beginnings

To mark the beginning of each round, you can use a stitch marker. I prefer to place it in the last stitch of the round. This can be a purchased stitch marker, a paperclip, a bobby pin, or even a scrap of yarn. This method provides a clear visual cue for where the round starts, ensuring consistency in your work.

Working in Rounds Without Joining

Working without joining insures a no-seam look, which is perfect for projects like the Candy Corn Witch Hat. This method is ideal for crocheting items like hats, where a seamless appearance is often preferred. The 'magic ring' technique mentioned in the instructions creates a circle that maintains its shape without the need to close it up at the end of each round.

Handling Complex Patterns

Some patterns may require a large number of stitches, which can be challenging to manage on a single pair of needles. In these cases, using a circular needle or two needles attached by a cord can help. This allows you to work more easily and maintain the proper number of stitches throughout the rounds.

Although a seamless hat is often preferred, some patterns require a seam. When this is the case, you can work flat and then sew the rounds together, or close the opening and tie off the end. Alternatively, you can work the hat in the round, creating a seamless finished product.

Conclusion

When working on crochet patterns that involve rounds, the decision to join or not join can significantly impact the final result. By understanding the differences, using stitch markers effectively, and considering the type of project, you can create beautiful, seamless crochet items. Enjoy the process and happy crocheting!