Crossed TC's

There are a variety of crossed stitches that you can master and enjoy and they each create a unique texture and pattern that is very beautiful.  I have been using the Crossed Treble Crochet in a lot of projects lately and thought it would be fun to teach it to you all.  From here forward I will abbreviate it XTC just to simplify.

XTC's tend to increase the width of the fabric a bit so I prefer to use them in trims or on pieces that I am intentionally increasing. You can alter the pattern to make them not increase the width, but in my opinion, they also don't stand out or have as dramatic of an effect as they do otherwise.

XTC = TC in 3rd st from hk, ch 2, TC in 1st skipped st.

To begin, chain the length that you want the project to be (# should be divisible by 3). at this point I like to do a base row. In the pictures you'll see that I did a base row of HDC's.  The first photo picks up after that row. Chain 2,

TC in the 3rd HDC from hook, ch 2, 

Chain 2, then holding the first TC out of your way, TC in the second st BACK from the hook. 

(See the picture above, the hook is pointing to the correct place to put the stitch)

It's a little difficult to see, but this is how I hold the first stitch out of the way while doing the second stitch. 

Here's the effect that you get! Isn't it gorgeous!? 

Notice that you don't put 2 stitches into the same hole at any time in this pattern.

Here are some fun instructions for how to do this stitch when working on something like a skirt or sleeve. Again, remember that it will increase in size on the outer edge, so use it with that in mind.

Chain the length that you'd like, and join. Chain 2, HDC around and sl st to join. 

When working on something round, you chain 5 to begin your round. This chain serves as the first TC and chain 2.

In this photo the hook is pointing at the stitch that you'll go into to make your second TC.

Can you see the chain (first TC and ch2) held behind the hook out of the way while I'm doing the second TC?

Continue XTC's around and watch the texture in this pattern! 

When you come to the end, sl st to join into the 3rd ch of the beginning chain. 

And there you have it!

As always, if you need any help getting it down, send me a note!

Happy Hooking! 

Mama Nettie