Edging

An edging row sometimes looks (in the pattern) like just an extra, unnecessary step. It takes just that much longer to finish the project! Is this step really necessary? Yes!

 For example,the circle of love doily. The next to last row is small shells. Pretty, but unfinished until the row of ch 3 loops around.

 My gardening bag could have had another edging row on both sides of the handle. It would have looked more "finished" and been sturdier, but it only goes back and forth between my kitchen and garden.

 An ear warmer with contrasting colors for edging.

 See how much smoother the edges look compared to no edging?

 Again, contrasting color edging smooths the edges and adds more visual interest.

This vest has 3 rows of sc as edging/button space. One side has button holes. The buttons are sewn on the other side. There are also 3 rows of sc around each armhole. This edging smooths the sides of the squares and reinforces the joinings.

Flat pineapple angel has a row of ch 3 loops all around. It smooths out the edges.

The contrasting color edging around the afghan ties in with the leaves on the roses. It smooths the side edges and bottom (along the beginning chain).

This is a stocking to hang on my mantle. The bottom edge was smooth, but the picots add visual interest.

Final example, my pineapple capelet. The edging is being worked down, so you can see what a difference it makes.
Edgings smooth edges, add visual interest, unify colors, and reinforce joinings. They help projects look finished and professionally made....definitely worth taking the extra time and effort to do.