How to Add Crochet Trim to Any Fabric Edge

cal patch, contributor

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Crochet gives a handmade edge to this simple T-shirt.

Cal Patch

The shirt "before."

Cal Patch

The shirt with the neckband cut off.

Cal Patch

Crochet gives a handmade edge to this simple T-shirt.

Photo: Cal Patch

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One of my favorite ways to add a handmade touch to garments I make or to customize manufactured clothing is to embellish with a crochet edging. Crochet, unlike embroidery or knitting, can't be done by machines, so I consider it the ultimate handcraft. In this tutorial, I'll be using a T-shirt neckline, but the same technique can be adapted for use on a cuff or hem of any knit or woven garment.

1. Since I'm using a premade T-shirt in this example, the first thing to do is cut off the neckband.

The shirt "before."

Here's the shirt with the neckband cut off.

You can make the neckline lower and/or wider if you want to, since it'll be filled back in with the crochet.

2. Next, I turn the raw edge under by 1/4 inch and pin it all around. Sometimes I don't turn the edge under, but doing so gives a cleaner look.

Close-up of the raw edge turned under 1/4 inch and pinned.

3. Ready to crochet! Note: I'm using a fingering-weight yarn, but you can experiment with different weights to see what works best for your garment. Because my yarn is fine, I'm able to use one of my tiny steel hooks, which are great for poking directly into the knit of the shirt. If you decide to use worsted or bigger yarn, you will want to prepoke your holes with a large darning needle so that you can get the hook through. (I would make a test swatch first to check gauge and how far apart the holes should be.) You may also wish to measure and mark (with a disappearing marker) your hole placement before you begin. Me, I just dive right in!

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CROCHET EDGE TO TOP...
BLANCHED

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Comments (15)

ohthankheaven writes: I'm sorry, but the puckered holes look like CRAP. Please--- there has to be a better way. I've seen tons of great stuff on this site, but this is what I consider the "ghetto rigged" I-definitely-made-it-myself look.
Posted: 9:45 am on July 2nd

captainboo writes: I am sooo trying this! thanks so much !
Posted: 5:20 pm on August 31st

jkblu58 writes: This will definitely make at cute pajama top for those custom made pajamas.
Posted: 9:39 am on November 11th

CalPatch writes: i only punch it through one layer, just barely beyond where the second layer ends. have fun!
Posted: 2:20 pm on October 16th

agrafikartist writes: Do you punch the crochet hook thru both layers of fabric? It appears that you turn the fabric over about 1/4", so that's why I am asking. Or do you punch the crochet hook just below the 1/4" turned over fabric? I hope I am making myself clear. I really like this idea and want to try it out.
Posted: 7:53 pm on October 15th

Jen1964 writes: Love the idea! Josefly, let us know how it works out! Some of my favorite pullover sweaters have that 1 or 1-1/2 (or even 2) inch "collar" standing up. If that's a mock turtle, I don't know. I can imagine your project with either the crew neck or that. My favorite thing to do with the too-tight, too-scratchy sweaters is to take the sleeves off and make dog sweaters out of them. (Fronts or backs can be bed covers for Westies & other small dogs like mine) Once you find the seam, it's not too hard to un-sew it. No need to cut that way. I suppose you would find a seam like that on your turtleneck as well. No need to stay-stitch if you do it that way. In any case, have fun!
Posted: 9:39 am on September 17th

gardenparty writes: cal patch! you crafty gal! this is a fun post.
i have so many tees that need re-lovin'--this should
be a great, stormy weather day project.
thanks!
Posted: 7:20 pm on September 15th

CalPatch writes: hi Josefly, that sounds like a great idea! and if you're not wearing it anyway, what have you got to lose? it's hard for me to advise without seeing the sweater (is it hand-knit or machine?), but stay-stitching the neck couldn't hurt. i assume there's already a neck seam? and i don't see why using the unravelled yarn should be a problem; it'll be cool that it matches. you may just need to use it 2- or 3-ply depending on how fine the knit is... good luck and post a pic when youre finished!
Posted: 4:03 pm on September 15th

discodotty writes: This is a nifty and sweet idea. They sell little contraptions to make these holes for you as well. Some folks like to do a blanket stitch around the edge, and use that as your hole and anchor as you make your way around. happy hooking to all.
Posted: 9:41 am on September 15th

Josefly writes: I'm so glad to see these instructions. Very clear. Thank you.

I've been wanting to remove a too-long, too-tight, turtle neck from a sweater that fits nicely otherwise, and had thought of replacing the turtle neck with crocheted trim using the yarn unraveled from the part I remove. I think you've given me the courage to try it - my crochet experience has thus-far been limited to scarves. Would you advise stay-stitching the neckline of the sweater before I cut off the turtle-neck? Any problems you know of, in using unraveled yarn?
Posted: 12:11 pm on September 14th

CalPatch writes: i like debbie stoller's Happy Hooker and kelly ronci's Kids Crochet (meant for kids = big, clear illustrations!), but i would spend some time in the bookstore or library and find a book that really speaks to you. also one that has projects you really like, so you'll be excited and inspired to make them ;n)
Posted: 12:21 am on September 13th

eyesaflame writes: Oh, this is so great! I'd really love to learn how to crochet so that I can incorporate it into my fiber art and clothing remakes - is there a book you'd recommend (with really big, clear illustrations?)
Posted: 5:20 pm on September 12th

CalPatch writes: hi crafty gal! i use a very small steel hook for the first round, and it is fairly pointed so it pokes through quite easily. but if you don't have a good pointy hook to use, or if you're using bigger yarn that a tiny hook can't grap, you can poke your holes first (or as you go) with a darning needle. hope that helps!
Posted: 12:22 pm on September 11th

crafty_gal writes: Hi Cal, is it hard to pierce the fabric with your crochet hook?
Posted: 10:46 am on September 11th

Sister_Diane writes: Awesome - thanks for the great photos. I totally feel like I could do this now!
Posted: 2:36 pm on September 9th

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