Back & Sleeve Seams – Join & Turn
What Is the “Join and Turn” Method in Crochet?
In many of my patterns, I use a technique called join and turn to close seams neatly as you work, rather than sewing them up later.
This method is often used:
- Along the back of a dress or sweater
- Under the arms when joining sleeves
- When working garments in rows that need to be gently joined into a tube
It creates a tidy seam and helps your finished garment sit beautifully.
How the Join and Turn Method Works
At the end of each row:
- Work your final stitch of the row.
- Slip stitch into the first stitch of the row to join.
- Turn your work.
- Begin the next row as instructed.
Very Important
When you begin the new row, skip the slip stitch you just made.
Do not work into the slip stitch.
If you accidentally crochet into the slip stitch, you will add an extra stitch to your stitch count, and your numbers will slowly increase as you go.
Always work into the first actual stitch of the row, not the slip stitch.
Why I Use This Technique
I love the join and turn method because it:
- Creates a neat, professional-looking seam
- Reduces finishing and sewing
- Keeps the back or underarm tidy
- Maintains accurate shaping
You will use the exact same technique whether you are closing the back of a dress or joining a sleeve.
Video Tutorial: Join and Turn Method
In the video below, I show you:
How to keep your stitch count accurate
Where to place the slip stitch
How to turn correctly
Which stitch to skip
