Has anyone used the foundation stitch (fsc, fdc, etc) instead of a chain and first round of a piece? I'm thinking of trying this... And joining after the foundation stitch row. I figure the first round would be easier that way. Any ideas or experience?
TIA!
I've started using it exclusively (thanks, Doris Chan) because I love it. You know how hard it is to make a foundation chain loose enough and elastic enough? A single foundation row or double crochet row is loose and elastic. I don't even have to use a larger hook, just the same hook as the rest of the fabric. It's easier to count your stitches than counting chains, too. I haven't used it in a round yet, but I'm sure a twist would be easier to spot and so to prevent.
Now one designer claimed that it's best to hang a sweater from the tightest row so it will keep its shape. For crochet that's the foundation CHAIN, so crochet top down. For knitting that's the bind off so knitting usually goes from bottom to top. Don't know about all that, but even if true, there are work-arounds.