Edging #2

Edging #2 Crochet Pattern by Paula Gaumer Tooke

Project Overview

Edging #2 is an intermediate-level crochet edging design created by Paula Gaumer Tooke. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for adding a decorative crocheted border to an unfinished item, such as a receiving blanket or other textile project. The edging features a delicate construction using fine thread and creates a finished, polished appearance on garment edges.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a decorative edging or border that attaches to the perimeter of an existing unfinished textile item. The designer used an unfinished receiving blanket as the base project, though this edging can be applied to various items requiring a finished edge treatment. The edging is worked in rounds, building outward from the edge of the base item to create a dimensional, ornamental border.

Techniques Used

The pattern employs several fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The edging begins with securing stitches into prepared buttonhole stitches along the item's edge, which serve as anchor points for the crochet work. The design incorporates color changes between rounds, requiring the crocheter to pick up new yarn colors within the final yarn-over of working stitches to create seamless transitions. The pattern uses a combination of basic stitches arranged in a repeating sequence to build the edging structure.

Stitches Used

• Single Crochet (sc) – The primary stitch used throughout the edging, worked evenly around the item's edge and in subsequent rounds
• Chain (ch) – Used to create spaces and structural elements within the edging pattern
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – Employed to join rounds and anchor picot elements
• Picot – A decorative embellishment created using the sequence of chain stitches and slip stitches into the base stitch, adding textural detail to the edging
• Buttonhole Stitch – A hand-sewn stitch used to prepare the edge of the base item before crochet work begins, creating secure anchor points for the edging attachment

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for crochet thread in two colors: Vivid Violet (Color A) and Fresh Fern (Color B). Thread is a much finer material than standard yarn, creating delicate, refined edging work suitable for heirloom-quality projects like receiving blankets.

Hook: An aluminum crochet hook size B/1 (2.25mm) is specified, which is appropriately sized for working with fine thread and creating the detailed stitchwork required for this edging.

Additional Tools: A sewing needle is needed for the buttonhole stitch preparation work on the base item's edge. A tapestry or yarn needle is used for weaving in thread ends upon completion.

Pattern Structure

The edging is constructed in rounds, beginning with single crochet stitches worked evenly into the prepared buttonhole stitches around the item's perimeter. Subsequent rounds build the decorative border using chain spaces and skip stitches to create openwork sections, with picot details adding visual interest. The use of two thread colors allows for color blocking or striping effects as the rounds progress.

Preparation Requirements

Before beginning the crochet edging, the base item must be properly prepared. The edge of the unfinished item requires finishing with buttonhole stitches worked by hand using a sewing needle. This preparation step creates a stable, finished edge with defined anchor points where the crochet edging will be secured, ensuring professional results and preventing unraveling.