This works very well for afghans, dishcloths, placemats:

Do your starting chain with 2 strands instead of one and a crochet hook one size up. Then on your second row return to the required hook size and one strand. It also keeps that first row from appearing too tight or pulling your work in at this row. I find this works well, since that first row can be rather flimsy to work with. Hope this helps!

Michelle
http://www.MyDailyFiber.com