Learn the Versatile Spike Stitch Border for Crochet Blankets

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Creating a Single Crochet Border
4. Starting the Spike Stitch Border
5. Working the Spike Stitch Row
6. Repeating Rows 2-5
7. Adding Finishing Touches
8. Conclusion

Introduction

Welcome to this tutorial on how to make the spike stitch border for your crochet projects. In this tutorial, I will guide you step by step on how to create a beautiful two-sided border using single crochets and spike stitches. This border technique is simple yet versatile and can be used on any type of blanket. So without further ado, let's get started!

Materials Needed

Before we begin, let's make sure you have all the necessary materials for this project. Here's what you'll need:

1. Yarn (in your desired colors)
2. Crochet hook (appropriate size for your yarn)
3. Scissors
4. Stitch markers (optional)

Creating a Single Crochet Border

To ensure a solid foundation for our spike stitch border, we will start by working a single crochet border around the edge of our project. If you're unfamiliar with the single crochet border technique, don't worry! I have a video tutorial linked in the description box (and in the corner) that you can refer to.

Begin by choosing any corner of your project and attach your yarn. Chain one to secure it into the corner. Next, chain one to start the row. In the corner, work two single crochets. Continue single crocheting in every stitch across the row. Remember to count your stitches and make sure you have an odd number. If you end up with an even number, simply decrease by working a single crochet decrease (or two single crochets together).

When you reach the corner again, work three single crochets into the corner stitch. This center single crochet will be referred to as the corner stitch throughout the project. You may use a stitch marker to mark it for convenience. Continue working around the rest of your project, making sure you have an odd number of stitches on each side. Work a decrease if necessary to fix your stitch count and work three single crochets into each corner.

Starting the Spike Stitch Border

Now that we have our single crochet border in place, it's time to begin the spike stitch border. For this, we will be using a different color of yarn. In this tutorial, I will refer to this color as our main color, which will be used for the spike stitches.

To start, chain one and work two single crochets into the first stitch. The corners will remain the same on this row. Next, work a single crochet into the next stitch. Now, it's time to work our first spike stitch. This stitch will be worked into the corner at the very bottom of our white rows.

To create a spike stitch, insert your hook into the designated stitch at the base of the white rows. Yarn over and loosely pull up a loop. Complete the single crochet by pulling the yarn through all the loops on your hook. This will create a stitch that appears lower than the others, giving it a "spiked" effect.

Continue alternating between single crochets and spike stitches throughout the row. For each spike stitch, move two stitches over from the previous spike stitch. This will ensure that the pink stitches connect with the previous pink rows, creating a cohesive border. Work three single crochets into each corner stitch.

Repeat this process for every side of your project, moving your stitch marker if necessary. Finish the row with a single crochet into the corner stitch and slip stitch to the very first single crochet.

Working the Spike Stitch Row

Now that we've completed the initial spike stitch row, we will repeat it to further enhance our border. Begin by chaining one and working two single crochets into the corner stitch.

Once again, start with a single crochet in the next stitch. Work a spike stitch into the corner at the base of the white rows. Move over two stitches from the last spike stitch and create another spike stitch. Continue alternating between single crochets and spike stitches until you reach the end of the row. Finish with three single crochets in the corner.

Repeat this process for the remaining sides of your project, moving the stitch marker as needed. Each time you reach the end of a row, remember to single crochet into the very first corner stitch and slip stitch to secure.

Continue repeating rows two through five, which consist of a single crochet border row followed by two single crochet rows in white. This pattern can be repeated as many times as you like to make your border as large as desired.

Repeating Rows 2-5

To maintain consistency and create a visually appealing border, we must repeat rows two through five. This will give our border a balanced look with alternating spike stitches and single crochets.

Each time you start a new row, begin with two single crochets in the corner stitch. Follow the pattern of single crochets and spike stitches as we did in the previous rows. Make sure to align your spike stitches directly above each other for a neat and tidy appearance.

Repeat this process until you have achieved the desired border size. Feel free to experiment with different color combinations or variations of the spike stitch pattern for a unique touch.

Adding Finishing Touches

Once you have completed the last spike stitch row, it's time to add the finishing touches to your border. To ensure a clean and polished look, I recommend working one final single crochet border around the edge.

Using the pink yarn (or your main color), work a single crochet in each stitch along the edge of your project. This additional border will neatly enclose the border stitches and provide a seamless transition.

When you reach the very end of the row, work one more single crochet into the starting corner to have three single crochets in that corner. Slip stitch to the very first single crochet to secure the border.

Congratulations! You have successfully completed your spike stitch border. Take a step back and admire your beautiful crochet project with its unique and eye-catching border.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have explored how to create a spike stitch border for your crochet projects. By combining single crochets and spike stitches, you can add depth and texture to your blankets and other crochet items.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't be afraid to experiment with different color combinations and stitch variations to suit your personal style. The possibilities are endless, and the end result will be a truly stunning piece that showcases your crochet skills.

Thank you for following along, and I hope you enjoy incorporating the spike stitch border into your future crochet projects. Happy crocheting!

Highlights

• Learn how to create a beautiful spike stitch border for your crochet projects
• Use simple single crochets and spike stitches to achieve a two-sided border
• Suitable for any type of blanket or crochet item
• Step-by-step instructions with detailed explanations and visuals
• Explore different color combinations and variations for a unique touch
• Finish off your border with a single crochet border for a polished look

FAQ

Q: Can I use different colors for the border?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different color combinations to create a border that complements your crochet project.

Q: How can I ensure that my spike stitches are aligned?

A: While it may not be perfect, you can aim to have your spike stitches sit directly above each other by moving over two stitches from the previous spike stitch. This will give your border a neat and organized appearance.

Q: Can I use the spike stitch border on other crochet items, like scarves or hats?

A: Yes! The spike stitch border technique can be applied to various crochet items, including scarves, hats, and even garments. It adds a unique touch to any project.

Q: Are spike stitches difficult to master?

A: Spike stitches may take a bit of practice at first, but with careful attention to the pattern and tension, you'll quickly get the hang of it. Don't hesitate to refer back to the tutorial and practice with scrap yarn before applying it to your main project.

Q: Can I customize the size of the border?

A: Definitely! You can repeat rows two through five as many times as you like to make the border as large as desired. Adapt the pattern to suit your project's specific dimensions and your personal preferences.