C2C Crochet Techniques
C2C crochet, or corner-to-corner crochet, is a popular crochet technique that has been gaining popularity among crochet enthusiasts in recent years. The technique involves working in diagonal rows from one corner of a square to the opposite corner, creating a textured and geometric pattern.
One of the reasons c2c crochet is so popular is because it’s easy to learn and can be used to create a wide variety of projects. From blankets and scarves to home decor items like pillows and rugs, c2c crochet is a versatile technique that can be used for many different projects. The size of these projects can be very easily adjusted by simply starting the decrease rows when the correct length along one side is achieved.
Materials needed
To get started with c2c crochet, you will need a few basic supplies. First, you’ll need a crochet hook suitable for the weight of yarn you’re using. You’ll also need a ball of yarn in your desired colour, some lockable stitch markers, and a pair of scissors.
Yarn choices
Balls of yarn with long colour changes work brilliantly with this technique. Alternatively, pixel-art style blankets can be created using c2c techniques. Scrappy blankets using up oddments of yarn are also very effective using this technique.
Stitches you will need
Using UK terminology:
- ch(s) – chain(s): Chain stitches are used in a turning chain to start each row.
- tr – treble crochet: This is the main stitch used in C2C.
- sl st – slip stitch: This is used to join one ’tile’, ‘block’, or ‘square’ to the next.
- ch-3-sp – chain 3 space: The ch-3-sp in C2C refers to the space between the turning chain and the first treble of the ’tile’, ‘block’, or ‘square’.
Basic C2C Crochet Technique – verbose
Create a slipknot and chain six. Then, make a treble crochet stitch into the fourth chain from the hook, then into the remaining fifth and sixth chain. This will create your first “block”. This is essentially made up from three treble crochet stitches and the turning three chains. To make the next square, chain six, and work three treble crochet stitches into the fourth, fifth and sixth chain spaces then slip stitch to the first block. Then, chain three and work three treble crochet into the chain 3 space of the previous block.
From here, you’ll work in diagonal rows, increasing the size of each side as you go, one block at a time. To do this, work three treble crochet stitches into the chain space of the previous block and then chain three. At the end of each row, turn your work and work into the chain space of the previous block again.
As you continue to work in diagonal rows, you’ll notice that your project starts to take on a triangular shape. To finish your project, simply work in decreasing diagonal rows until you reach your desired size, then fasten off your yarn and weave in any loose ends.
Basic Technique – UK crochet terms
For those who can already read crochet terminology.
Starting off and increase rows:
- Ch 6.
- Tr into 4th ch from hook.
- Tr into next 2 ch, turn. (1st block made, row now has 1 block).
- Ch 6.
- Tr in 4th ch from hook and next 2 ch.
- Sl st to top of turning ch3 to join.
- Ch 3, work 3 tr into ch-3-sp of previous row (2nd row now has two blocks).
- Repeat steps 4-7 to begin each row, and steps 6 and 7 for each ‘block’ along the row.
Decrease rows:
This works by removing a ‘block’ each row until you have only one remaining.
Once you have completing the longest row in your pattern
- Ch 1, sl st in next 3 tr.
- Sl st into ch-3-sp (this has removed one ‘block’)
- Ch 3, 3 tr in ch-3-sp.
- Sl st to top of turning ch3 to join.
- Ch 3, work 3 tr into ch-3-sp of previous row (2nd row now has two blocks).
Application of the C2C Crochet Technique
One of the great things about c2c crochet is that it’s easy to customise to your preferences. You can use different colours of yarn to create intricate patterns or keep it simple with a solid colour. You can also adjust the size of your squares to create different shapes and sizes of projects.
Overall, c2c crochet is a fun and versatile technique that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced crocheters alike. With just a few basic supplies and a little bit of practice, you can create beautiful and unique projects using this popular technique.