Expert: Patricia - 1/15/2009

Question
The book doesn't explaine what the number represent.It says Row1:Ch 69,sc in 2nd ch from hook, single in each of the next 3 chs,(2 sc in next ch,sc in each of next 3 chs)across,turn(84). What does it means by TURN(84)? Thank You ! It's a Victorian Heirloom Ensemble, which includes the baby gown I'm planning to crochet for my new neice. The gown has 16 rows and 44 rnds in all, but the instruction in each row ends with different numbers of turn. For example: turn(84)in row 1, turn(96)in row 2, turn(102)in row 3, and etc. What do the numbers indicates in turns? The book," Special Moments Baby Layette #921804 Designed by Sue Childress, The Needlecraft Shop 1992

Answer
When you get to the end of the row, you "turn" your work counterclockwise so you start crocheting back down the previous row.  Many times patterns will give number so you can count your stitches to make sure you have the right amount, especially in patterns where that number changes from row to row in order to increase or decrease the size in order to obtain shaping.  In this case, you should have 84.  If the next row is 84 also, they probably won't repeat it.  Maintaining the correct number of stitches is so important because if you don't have the correct amount, it will show up later on.
Hope this helps.
-Patricia