I posed the question on my Facebook page, “To border or not to border?” I was thinking definitely not. This pattern makes very straight edges on the sides and bottom. It can easily go without, BUT I listened to those who answered, “Absolutely.” (Mom and Mom-in-law, I’m looking at you two!) So, here are two border options.

And you know, I think they were right. The borders just add a more finished look.

If you’d prefer, a PDF of this complete pattern (parts 1-5 and borders) can be purchased for $2.99 here.

Border 1: Single Crochet border.

This border is simple. Attach border color to any corner. I used a contrasting color.

Round 1: Join border color to top right corner with a sl st. Ch 1, *3 sc in same st. Sc in each st across. 3 sc in next corner. 2 sc in each row down the side.** Repeat from * to **. Join with a slip st. Sl st into corner st. Join, Fasten off. Weave in ends.

Border 2: Seed Stitch Border.

Round 1: Join border color to top right corner with a sl st. Ch 1, *3 sc in same st. Sc in each st across. 3 sc in next corner. 2 sc in each row down the side.** Repeat from * to **. Join with a slip st. Sl st into corner st.

Round 2: Ch 1, *3 sc in corner. Sc in next st. [Ch 1, sk 1, sc] across to last two st. Ch 1, sk 1, sc in st before corner.** Repeat from * to ** three more times. Join with sl st to first st. Sl st to corner.

Round 3: Ch 1, *(3 sc in corner. Sc in next st. [Ch 1, sc in next ch sp (skipping all sc)] across. Ch 1, sk sc, sc in sc before corner.** Repeat from * to ** three more times. Join with sl st to first st. Sl st to corner.

Rounds 4 and 5: Repeat Row 3. Join. Weave in ends.

I had a little fun with this border and changed colors on a few of the rows. It made for a more striped look.

Which border will you choose? Will you leave the border off.

I’d love to see your finished projects. Please post them to my FB page and tag #alphabetblocksCAL.