Crochet motifs are the ultimate building blocks. Granny squares, flowers, circles, triangles, hexagons, or diamonds, these individual pieces can be combines to create fabulous sweaters, blankets, accessories, and home decor items. They are the perfect project to use up scrap yarn, to take on a trip, or to design your own garments with. 

Mother Nature by Kristin Omdah

Crochet motifs that are worked in the round can be started in several ways. Here is a brief synopsis of three methods of beginning crochet motifs. 

	Working Into the Ring

Working Into the Ring

This is probably the most common method of making a crochet motif that is worked in the round. Begin by working the stated number of chain stitches and slip stitch in the first chain to form a ring.

Then work the indicated number of stitches into the center of the ring you just created.  Make sure you know where the center of the ring is so that when you begin working stitches they are truly in the middle of the ring and not worked into one of the stitches. If you accidently work into one of the stitches, you may not be able to fit the desired number of crochet stitches in the ring.

This is a great method of beginning a motif in the round when you are working in thread or another fine yarn where distinguishing the individual chain stitches can be difficult. It is also ideal if the number of stitches you are working into the ring is not divisible by the number of chains worked. For instance, if you chain four and then needed to work thirteen stitches into the ring.

Working Into Each Chain

Working Into Each Chain

You can also work directly into each stitch instead of into the resulting ring. Simply begin the motif as for the above method, but instead of working into the ring, work the designated crochet stitches into the chains themselves. A pattern, for example, may direct you to chain four then slip stitch into the beginning chain to form a ring. Then work two stitches in each chain-leaving you with eight stitches at the end of the round. This method, as you can see, creates a very different look for the center of the motif. 

	The Adjustable Ring

The Adjustable Ring

The adjustable ring is perfect if you do not want a hole in the center of your motif. This method is sometimes referred to as magic ring or adjustable loop. Unlike the previous two methods, the adjustable ring does not begin with a chain. Instead, wrap the tail around your index finger. Insert the hook into the resulting ring and pull up a loop, chain one, and work the desired number of stitches into the resulting loop. Don't worry if your stitches don't fill the entire loop as they do with the chain methods. After you have worked your last stitch, pull the tail to tighten the ring. Tada, no hole. 

Forest Flower Pullover by Kristin Omdahl

When you are working your next motif project, play with which method works best for you and the project you are working on.

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Best wishes,