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How to Add Crochet Trim to Any Fabric Edge

comments (13) September 9th, 2008     
CalPatch cal patch, contributor
Love it! 16 users recommend
Crochet gives a handmade edge to this simple T-shirt.
The shirt before.
The shirt with the neckband cut off.
Crochet gives a handmade edge to this simple T-shirt.

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

Photo: Cal Patch
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First row: With a slip knot on your hook, pierce the neckline of the shirt 1/4 inch away from the folded edge, just behind the right side shoulder seam, and join with a slipstitch.


Pierce the neckline with your hook, and join the yarn on with a slipstitch.

Now, you can use any stitch pattern you like, but this is what I did: Chain 6 (that's 3 turning chains plus 3 across) and double crochet 5/8 inch over from the join. Chain 3, double crochet again 5/8 inch over.


Work around the neck in a chain 3, double crochet pattern.

Continue around in this manner until you reach the beginning chain 6, and join with a slipstitch in the third chain.


At the end of the first row, join into the third chain with a slipstitch.

This is what the first row looks like...

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posted in: fabric, yarn, shirt

Comments (13)

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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