Glossary / Turning chain
t-chTurning chain
The chains made at the start of a row to lift the yarn to stitch height.
Also written: tch, ch-3
How to work it
After turning your work, chain enough stitches to match the height of the row you are about to crochet: one chain for single crochet, two for half double, three for double crochet. Whether the turning chain counts as the first stitch depends on the pattern, and skipping or doubling it is the usual reason edges grow or shrink. Check what your pattern says and stay consistent.
Common confusions
What does t-ch mean?
In crochet patterns, t-ch means Turning chain. The chains made at the start of a row to lift the yarn to stitch height.
How many chains does each stitch need?
One for single crochet, two for half double, three for double, four for treble. The chain has to climb to the height of the stitches in the row, and getting it wrong pulls the edge in or flares it out.
Does the turning chain count as a stitch?
The pattern decides, and both conventions are in wide use. If it counts, skip the first stitch of the row and work the last one into the top of the previous turning chain. If it does not, work into every stitch and ignore the chain on the way back. Mixing the two mid-project is what makes edges drift.
In other languages
| Language | Term | Abbreviation |
|---|---|---|
| English | Turning chain | t-ch |
| Español | Cadeneta de subida | no standard code |
| Deutsch | Wendeluftmasche | Wdlm |
| Français | Maille en l’air de tournure | no standard code |
| Italiano | Catenella di giro | no standard code |
| 日本語 | 立ち上がりのくさり | no standard code |
Related stitches
Keep your place while you work this stitch. Worsted counts your rows and rounds and remembers your spot in the pattern, for crochet and knitting.
Get Worsted