Find yourself pinning all the amazing ‘graphgans’ in your newsfeed but not sure how to get started on your own? Graphgans can be mastered by Crocheters of all levels once you know the basics of following a graph!
Graphgans and Graphs:
The name ‘graphgan’ itself implies that you are working off of a chart, graph or pattern to create the chosen image.
There are different ways to read graphs depending on which stitch you have chosen. Today we will look at how to read a graph when using single, double, bobble or other linear stitches.
Before you Start……
You will need to find perfect graph or chart. You can find some of my free graphs here and here. I also recommend checking out my Pinterest Board to help you ‘Pick Your Project’.
Using your chosen graph as a reference, pick and purchase the required yarn colors or colors of your choice. TIP: If following your own color selection consider using a color guide as a reference as you move along.
Check your hook size to make sure you are using the recommended hook for the yarn selected. TIP: Check your yarn label for hook size recommendations.
Following Your Graph:
When following a graph, each square represents a stitch which will be worked from the bottom up and from right to left in the following steps.
- Start with your foundation chain. For single crochet (SC) your number of chains will be equivalent to the number of squares plus one for turning. For Bobble Stitch, you will double this number plus one for turning. TIP: Your chain is NOT your first row, but lays the foundation for your first row of stitches.
- Once you have your chain, you will turn and complete a foundational row in SC. In this row, you will follow the graph and alternate the color of your stitches as indicated by the graph.
- You will turn your project at the end of each row; therefore, the order you read the chart will vary depending on the numbered row (odd vs. even). Odd rows are read from right to left; while even rows are read from left to right. TIP: For smaller projects, it’s pretty easy to keep track or your rows. For larger graphs, it may be helpful to mark the front side of your work with a stitch marker or cross out completed lines on a printed copy of the graph.
Wrapping Up…
When you have completed your graph, you will finish off by weaving in your ends, or by backing your project hide the ends as I have done here.
I absolutely love making graphgans, and have several in process at the moment. Now that you know the basics, I hope you will feel inspired to start a graphgan of your own. Want to learn more? Check out the other parts of this series on Corner to Corner (C2C) Graphs, Word Charts, and designing your own graph!
Have a question, comment or want to share your own tips for following graphs? Leave a comment below or consider signing up for our email listing! Happy Hooking.
