Expert: Bea Harrell - 6/3/2008

Question
I am finishing up an afghan that I made with no specific pattern. I want to put a fancy border all the way around it (all four sides).  I have no problem with the top and bottom as these are just regular stitches, but I want to be able to stitch down the sides also.  The sides are not as easy and uniform so I am not sure exactly how to make the first row of stitches so I can just go around the blanket with the border like a big square.  Does this make any sense?  Any suggestions?

Thanks for any help  

Answer
Hey, Amy! Depending on the type of stitches you used, you might be able to crochet a row of single crochets all around, as a foundation row. It will even the sides up and allow you to work the border in a continuious row all around. The challenge will be to keep the number of stitches equal on all 4 sides,(matching top & bottom, Then matching both sides), with extra stitches at the corners, so it doesn't draw up.  Stitching along the sides is not difficult.  If you have double crochets, you'll be crocheting around the posts,(along its side) instead of in the top of the stitches.  I would suggest that You do the sc row around the top, and then work your way down the side,spacing your stitches evenly.  Then count the stitches on both of those rows, and then match the stitches, on the bottom row and the other side. Depending on the "flare" you want at each corner, you must add extra stitches at the corners (usually 4/5 is sufficent). I hope this helps! If you encounter problem, I'll be happy to try to help!

Sincerely,  Bea