# [Find the first and last stitch](https://threadcabin.com/explore/202/find-the-first-and-last-stitch)

> Mark edge stitch tops before turning. Decide from the pattern whether the turning chain replaces a stitch or simply supplies height.

- Canonical page: https://threadcabin.com/explore/202/find-the-first-and-last-stitch
- Language: en
- Published: 2026-09-25T17:26:33.8723084+00:00
- Updated: 2026-09-25T17:26:38.9509413+00:00
- Craft: Crochet
- Primary image: [Illustration: A short flat crochet sample with first and last stitches marked, beside a small round with its beginning marked and a clear open chain space.](https://threadcabin.com/images/explore/focused/crochet-instructions.jpg)

Mark edge stitch tops before turning. Decide from the pattern whether the turning chain replaces a stitch or simply supplies height.

## Before you start

Confirm whether the instructions use US or UK terms. On a smooth-yarn sample, mark the first and last stitch and note whether the turning chain counts.

## Try this example

In a 16-single-crochet sample whose turning chain does not count, work into the first stitch and finish at the marked sixteenth. Recount before turning.

## Check your result

- Count stitch tops separately from chain spaces and compare successive row or round totals. Lay the sample down without stretching it to inspect the shape.
- A symbol or familiar stitch name does not supply a complete construction. Use the project’s own counts, turning rules and joining instructions.

## Sources

- [www.craftyarncouncil.com: crochet abbreviations](https://www.craftyarncouncil.com/standards/crochet-abbreviations)
- [media.craftyarncouncil.com: CYC_CIP_Crochet_Program_2017.pdf](https://media.craftyarncouncil.com/files/CIP/CYC_CIP_Crochet_Program_2017.pdf)

[Browse editable craft templates](/crafts?craft=crochet)

[Report a correction](/corrections).

## Sources and provenance

- [Reading crochet charts: symbols, rows, rounds, and repeats](https://threadcabin.com/explore/4/reading-crochet-charts-symbols-rows-rounds-and-repeats)
- [Crochet stitch height, turning chains, and terminology](https://threadcabin.com/explore/11/crochet-stitch-height-turning-chains-and-terminology)
- [Find growing or shrinking edges](https://threadcabin.com/explore/249/find-growing-or-shrinking-edges)
- [Crochet loop placement changes texture and movement](https://threadcabin.com/explore/12/crochet-loop-placement-changes-texture-and-movement)