Expert: Marilyn Jane Rimmer - 1/22/2009

Question
I'm in a quandry, I have crocheted afghans before and now learning to crochet a sweater  I have completed the back as per the instructions and now have to shape the arm hole - it says Shape Armholes: Sl st in first 5 (7, 7, 9, 9) sts, ch 1, shell in same st as last sl st, * skip next dc, shell in next sc; rep from * to last 6 (8, 8, 10, 10) sts; skip next dc, sc in next sc; turn, leaving rem sts unworked – 53 (55, 63, 65, 71) sts. Rep Pat Row 2 until armhole measures about 7 (7 1/2, 8, 8, 8 1/2)" end right side row. Help I don't understand.  Thank you


Answer
If you have not done any garment construction (crochet, knit, sewing) you may be unfamiliar with armhole shaping.
Here's a basic diagram:
http://www.lionbrand.com/graphics/patterns/AARPSweater-diagramBack.jpg  


Notice how the top of the back tapers on both sides, that's what you're going to create with the decrease rows.  First, the pattern has instructions for 5 different sizes, I'd recommend that you use a highlighter and mark the instructions for the size that you're working on.  Let's say that you're making the small size.  On the row where you're going to start your shaping, you start by slip stitching in the first 5 stitches.  This adds no height to the back, but moves your yarn in to where you're going to start the next stitches. Chain 1, then work in your shell pattern until you have 6 stitches left in the row.  skip the next double, single in the next single and then stop working.  You're now going to do your turning chain, turn and start on the next row.  (you have 53 stitches on this row).
Then you repeat pattern row 2, (which is probably a work even in the shell pattern) until this narrower part is approximately 7 inches in height.  Make sure that you end on a right side row.
If you need further clarification, just ask.
MJ