Counting stitches, rounds, and rows is like learning the secret language of crochet! It might seem a bit tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be breezing through your projects with confidence. Let's dive into this fundamental skill with Okey Dokeys and make counting a piece of cake! 

Counting Stitches: Spotting the Little V’s 

Each stitch in crochet looks like a little "V" shape. These tiny V's are your stitches, and counting them accurately is key to ensuring your project turns out just right.

1. Finding the V's: Look at the top edge of your work; each stitch resembles a "V" shape. Each V counts as one stitch. 
2. Start Counting: Begin from the last stitch you made and count each V until you reach the first one. 
3. Double-check: If you're not sure about your count, it's totally okay to count again. Better safe than frogging later! 

Counting Rows: Stack ‘Em Up 

Rows are like layers in a cake—they stack on top of each other! Counting rows helps you track how tall your project is getting.

1. Identify the Rows: Each row is a horizontal layer in your project. If you're working in single crochet, each row looks like a series of small horizontal bars. 
2. Count from the Bottom: Start counting from the very first row at the bottom of your project. Count up each horizontal line until you reach the row you're currently working on. 
3. Mark Your Rows: To make it easier, use stitch markers every few rows to help keep track, especially for larger projects. 

Counting Rounds: Going in Circles 

If you're working on something round, like a cozy hat or a cute amigurumi friend, you'll be working in rounds instead of rows. 

1. Find the Spiral: In crochet rounds, you'll work in a spiral. Each round looks like a ring of stitches. 
2. Count from the Center: Start counting from the very first round in the center and move outward. Count each ring of stitches until you reach the outer edge. 
3. Use a Marker: Place a stitch marker at the beginning of each round to easily keep track of where each new round starts. 

Practice Makes Perfect

Don't worry if this feels a bit overwhelming at first—counting is a skill that gets easier with practice. With a bit of patience and practice, you'll be counting stitches, rows, and rounds like a crochet pro. Okey Dokeys is here to cheer you on every step of the way!