FAQ: Why is there a curved line down the back of my hat?

Visible line at crochet join

Am I doing something wrong? What can I do to fix this? I get these questions all the time, especially regarding my free Versatile Earflap Hat Pattern.

The answer is that you aren’t doing anything wrong! Whenever you crochet in the round and begin each round with a chain, you will have a visible line where each round is joined. I find that a lot of people really fret over this line so I’m including a couple photos of the backs of my Versatile Earflap Hats for comparison.

Back view of Versatile Earflap Hat

Now if you’re new to crochet and your line doesn’t look quite so neat, don’t worry – these things come with practice. Just stick with it and keep crocheting!

If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment and I’ll respond as soon as I can.

Comments

  1. 1
    Teri says:

    I have to admit I did wonder about that line when I finished my first hat. After the second and third I figured it was normal and now I use the line as the “seam” and indicator of the back of the hat. 🙂 Thank you for this though! I sure it will put minds at ease.

  2. 2
    Marge Burke says:

    I find that when you join for the next round and you chain 2 don’t count that as your first stitch. Go ahead and do your half double crochet or double crochet in that joining stitch. I also don’t join in the chain two I join in the hdc or dc and then ch 2. I hope this makes sense. The line is less noticeable and much straighter.

    • 3
      Micah says:

      It totally makes sense to do that too (and it will keep your stitch count the same since you are joining in the first stitch instead of the chain). Thanks for your input!

      • 4
        Marge Burke says:

        You are so welcome. I love your patterns. Have made so many of them as gifts and even sold quite a few. They are always a big hit with everyone. You are always so generous to share your ideas with everyone. It is truly appreciated. I am making one today and will post a picture of the back for you so you can see.