To make a stitch,—at the commencement and end of a row, is to make one stitch of a chain before the first stitch, and after the last, which in the next row are to be crocheted.
A dividing, or seam stitch,—called also a raised stitch, is made by putting the needle through both meshes of the chain, and working two stitches in the same hole. These stitches must always be made exactly over each other. In crocheting circles they form a kind of star pattern, and serve the purpose of increasing stitches. They should not be employed when working with chenille.
To increase a stitch,—to make two stitches in the same loop.
To decrease,—to take two stitches together, or to miss one stitch. Decreasing is always done in the same ratio as increasing.
True or perfect stitch,—when working in different colours, the keeping the stitches directly over each other, without any appearance of the half-stitch. This requires care, but it greatly adds to the beauty of the work, and makes the pattern more distinct.
To fasten off,—to draw the wool through the last stitch.
To fasten on,—lay the ends of the wool contrariwise, and crochet a few stitches with both, or work in the second wool, and run the end in with a needle at the back of the work.
To run the ends,—to pass them down a few stitches with a needle. This is the neatest and strongest plan; but they may be tied and cut off.
A dividing line,—generally formed of two stitches alternately up and down, into the ground of the stripes on either side.