Introduction to Crochet: Basic Crochet Circle

The key to stitching a circle is all about paying attention to the stitch count of each round.  Increasing the stitch count in a specific pattern keeps the circle flat, while no increases will create a bowl or basket shape.  For this little basket, I stopped increasing after three rounds:  

On the other hand, if you increase too often, it will create a ruffly texture:

This is reminiscent of beautiful corals, and has helped to create a gorgeous art installation at the Crochet Coral Reef project.  There are some beautiful images in their gallery, found here.  Check it out for some artistic and natural inspiration!

For a flat circle, however, let's begin with a Magic Circle:

I'll make 12 double crochet stitches in the circle.  You can make as many as you like, but it's easiest to work with an even number.  Here's the pattern of stitch increases:

Round 1: 12 double crochet
Round 2: Increase in every stitch (24)

Round 3: Increase in every second stitch (36)

Round 4: Increase in every third stitch (48)

Round 5: Increase in every fourth stitch (60)

Round 6: Increase in every fifth stitch (72)

etc.

As you can see, the number of single stitches between increases goes up by one for each round.  For example, for round 4, I would count in my head, "double, one, two, three, double, one, two, three, double, etc.".

In order to make a circle rather than a snail shell, it's important to close each round with a slip stitch in the top of the original ch3.  If you continue without slip stitching each round closed, here's what you'll have: 

Now, if you're continuing with the same color throughout, you'll be beginning each round with a ch3 that stems from the slip stitch closing the previous round.  I've found that a good way to avoid having large gaps between stitches is to begin with an increase stitch made in the same stitch that you used to close the previous round with a slip stitch:

  If, however, you wait until the end of each round to make the increase stitch next to the original ch3,    the gaps will be slightly larger:

Here are some pictures to compare.  The circle on the right was crocheted by beginning with an increase stitch.  The circle on the left was crocheted ending with the increase stitch.

Depending on which style you choose, you can always use the yarn tail at the very end when you bind off to zig zag stitch any gaps together.

I hope that these photos help clarify everything about crocheted circles- let me know if there are any questions or difficulties.  And, more than anything, happy stitching!

Lots of love,
~Mersydotes