Foundation Chain Counter

How Foundation Chain Counter Works?

The Foundation Chain Counter works by adding 1 to Chains Counted for every chain you pull through the loop on the hook. Pattern Goal holds the chain number the pattern asks for.

1. 1

   Set the chain goal

   Press → to raise Pattern Goal to the number in the pattern, including the turning chain.

2. 2

   Tap per chain

   Tap the count pad or press Space after each chain. The loop on the hook does not count as a chain.

3. 3

   Count long chains in blocks

   Pick Step by 10, and place a stitch marker in every 10th chain as you tap.

4. 4

   Reset for a new start

   Press Reset Count to clear Chains Counted if the chain twists and you start again.

Foundation Chain Counter Formula

The Foundation Chain Counter formula is chains to make = (repeat × number of repeats) + extra stitches + turning chain. Patterns write the first two parts as a multiple, such as "multiple of 4 + 2".

Chains needed

Ch = m × k + e + t

m is the stitch multiple, k is the number of repeats, e is the extra stitches and t is the turning chain.

Chains for a width

Ch ≈ width × stitches per inch + t

Use the stitch gauge of the first row, not the chain gauge.

Turning chain

t = 1 (sc), 2 (hdc), 3 (dc), 4 (tr)

The turning chain lifts the hook to the height of the first stitch.

Worked example: A dc blanket worked in a multiple of 4 + 2 with 30 repeats needs (4 × 30) + 2 + 3 = 125 chains.

Foundation Chain Counter Conversion Table

The Foundation Chain Counter conversion table lists the foundation chain for common blanket widths in worsted yarn at 3 stitches per inch.

Foundation chains tighten up. Use a hook 1 size larger for the chain, or a foundation stitch row, to keep the edge from pulling in.

What is Foundation Chain Counter?

A Foundation Chain Counter is a tally tool that counts the starting chain of a crochet project. The foundation chain sets the width of every row above it, so the chain count decides the width of the finished piece.

Long chains of 150 or more for blankets twist and hide individual chains. Counting the chain again is slow, and a count that is off by 1 breaks a pattern multiple.

The Stitches Counter version keeps the target chain count on screen and saves your place in the browser after each tap.

What are the uses of Foundation Chain Counter?

There are 5 main uses of the Foundation Chain Counter, including blanket starts, pattern multiples and scarf widths.

• Blanket starts

  Count chains of 150 to 250 for full-size afghans without losing your place.

• Pattern multiples

  Match the chain to multiples such as "multiple of 6 + 3" for shell and ripple patterns.

• Scarf widths

  Chain 25 to 40 for a 7 to 10 in (18 to 25 cm) scarf in worsted yarn.

• Garment panels

  Start front and back panels with identical chains.

• Restarts

  Return to the same chain count after a pause.