Why Does My Crochet Keep Getting Narrower?

A missing stitch at each edge can turn a rectangle into a triangle surprisingly quickly.

Find the final stitch

The last top V may lean into the turning chain or hide under the previous row’s edge. Before turning, count and confirm that the last stitch was worked where the pattern expects it.

Protect the first stitch

If the turning chain does not count, the first stitch may be worked into the first available stitch. If it does count, that same placement may create a different edge rule. Follow the pattern and mark the first true stitch as soon as it is made.

Look inside the repeat

Chain spaces and dense clusters can be skipped accidentally. Divide a long row with markers so each repeat can be counted before continuing.

Do not stretch to disguise the count

Blocking cannot replace missing stitches. Identify the earliest incorrect row and repair there. Afterwards, keep markers in place for several rows until the edges are stable.

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