Fun With Loop & Lace

If you're looking for an unusual new way to connect edges in your crocheted afghans and other suitable projects, you might find the Loop & Lace method to be a fun alternative. This technique has gained in popularity over the past decade, but surprisingly, many crocheters haven't tried it, and some are not even aware of it.

This process involves loops that are crocheted on the edges and then interlaced, creating a uniquely decorative seam that frames each strip. Ch-10 and ch-15 loops are crocheted alternately across the sides of strips, as follows: join yarn with sl st at bottom corner, [ch 10, sl st in next st, ch 15, sl st in next st] across to top, ending with a ch-10 loop, fasten off. If two of the same-size loops are next to each other, the lacing instructions will not work evenly, so it's important to periodically check to make sure they alternate.

For the first stage of assembly, the ch-10 loops are laced up the sides of the strip. For some designs, they can be worked around the entire edge. Always beginning at the bottom and skipping over the ch-15 loops, reach through the first ch-10 loop, pick up the next ch-10 loop and pull it through the first. Reach through the last loop, pick up the next ch-10 loop and pull it through (see photo 1). Repeat this process to the top of the strip. Don't lace the loops too tightly, or they will pull the crochet fabric. Secure the top loop to the crocheted piece with a pin.

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4

Next, place two strips side by side (see photo 2). Beginning at the bottom, reach through the first ch-15 loop on the first strip, pick up the first ch-15 loop on the second strip and pull through (see photo 3). Reach through the last loop, pick up the next ch-15 loop on the first strip (see photo 4), reach through last loop and pick up the next ch-15 loop on the second strip. Repeat this to the top of the strip.

Lace the ch-10 and ch-15 loops on all remaining strips to be joined in the same manner. Remember to always start lacing in the same manner from the bottom to keep the direction of your lacing consistent as you work.

To anchor the loose ch-10 and ch-15 loops at the top of each seam, work a row of single crochet around the entire piece, catching the loops as you go. Or if you prefer, tack them in place on the wrong side of the seam.

Have fun experimenting with the Loop & Lace joining technique. You can create your own crocheted panels for a variety of projects, such as blankets, pillows, rugs, totes and more, using any stitch pattern you like, and then connect them with this eye-catching joining. You might even try altering the size of the chain loops; instead of ch-10 and ch-15 loops, try ch-8 and ch-12 loops for a tighter joining seam.