I finally opened a book I recently acquired called Chain-Free Crochet. One of the things I dislike about crocheted garments is the beginning chain. It is rigid when compared to the rest of the rows.
With chainless crochet, the chain and the first row are created at the same time--you make a single or double crochet, then make a loop on which to make the next stitch. I tried the technique with my favorite crochet scarf pattern an I love the beginning edge! It is just as stretchy as the second row of crochet. I plan to use this technique forever more, except for projects that need a rigid edge, such as purse straps.
