Catch the Flaps with Anchored Stitch in Overlay Mosaic Crochet
Clean Up Your Overlay Mosaic Crochet Projects
Overlay mosaic crochet is a stunning and intricate technique that results in beautiful patterns, but let’s be honest—those pesky ridges or flaps that appear on the backside can be annoying. Not only do they create a bulky finish, but they can also snag on things, making your hard work feel less polished. Let me show you the anchored stitch in overlay mosaic crochet!
If you’ve struggled with these flaps in your overlay mosaic crochet patterns, you’re in the right place! In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through my favorite solution: the Anchored Stitch Technique. It’s a simple yet effective way to secure those loose flaps on the back, leaving you with a clean and professional finish.
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Why Use the Anchored Stitch in Overlay Mosaic Crochet?
When working on overlay mosaic crochet, the design involves a lot of front loop double crochets. This naturally creates flaps on the back side of the fabric because you’re only working into the front loop, leaving the back loops loose. Over time, these flaps can become problematic if they catch or snag on things.
The Anchored Stitch is an easy way to catch those loose flaps and keep everything neat. Plus, it doesn’t take much extra effort or time to incorporate into your project!
Materials You’ll Need
Before we get started learning the technique, make sure you have the following materials on hand:
- Your current overlay mosaic crochet project
- Crochet hook (matching the yarn size of your project)
- Yarn (same color as your current project)
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Anchored Stitch in Overlay Mosaic Crochet
Follow these steps to secure your mosaic crochet work and remove those annoying back flaps:
Note: this technique used on blank boxes (or BLOsc stitches) that are right above Xs (or FLOdc).
- Start Your Stitch as Usual:
- Begin by inserting your hook through the back loop, just as you would for a regular back loop single crochet.
- Flip Your Work:
- Turn your crochet work upside down so you can see the backside clearly. Look for the corresponding back loop of the single crochet row, which should be the same color as your working yarn, located two rows below your current stitch.
- Insert Through that Back Loop:
- Insert your hook into the back loop of the stitch two rows down.
- Yarn Over & Pull Through:
- Yarn over and pull through both of those back loops.
- Finish with a Single Crochet:
- Complete the stitch by finishing the single crochet as normal. Yarn over and pull through remaining 2 loops.
- This simple action locks the back flap into place.
- Repeat Every 5 Stitches:
- You don’t need to do this for every stitch. I recommend anchoring the stitch every five stitches (or as needed, depending on your project). This will keep everything secure without adding too much bulk to the back.
Additional Tip: Make Your Mosaic Projects Reversible
For those looking to take it a step further, you can make your overlay mosaic crochet project reversible by using the Negative Stitch technique. This method creates a two-sided design, eliminating back flaps entirely while giving you a polished finish on both sides. Click here for my full tutorial on the Negative Stitch to learn more.
When to Use the Anchored Stitch in Overlay Mosaic Crochet
The Anchored Stitch is perfect for any overlay mosaic crochet pattern where back flaps are an issue. Here are a few examples of when it might come in handy:
- Projects with multiple front loop double crochets (typically more than 5-6 in a row).
- Items that are more prone to snagging, such as garments or bags.
- Larger crochet pieces where clean finishes are essential (like blankets or tapestries).
Speaking of larger projects.
Have you joined the Mosaic Gingerbread Blanket CAL? Make sure you check it out!
Mosaic Gingerbread CAL
Nordic Star Blanket
Mosaic Nordic CAL
Join the Crochet Community!
Crochet is not just a craft; it’s a community. Join the Juniper and Oakes Crochet Community Facebook group to share your work, seek advice, and connect with other crocheters around the world. Whether you have questions about the anchor stitch or want to show off your latest creation, the community is there to support you.
Final Thoughts
The Anchored Stitch is a simple but highly effective way to ensure that your overlay mosaic crochet projects look tidy and snag-free. It’s a technique I use regularly, and I hope it makes your crochet projects even more enjoyable.
Have a different method for securing flaps in overlay mosaic crochet? Share your tips in the comments below! If you found this tutorial helpful, don’t forget to like, share, and pin it for later.
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