Foundationless Crochet?

I thought I'd share with you one of my favorite techniques. Instead of starting every project with a chain strip, using a "foundationless" stitch can speed up the start of your project and allow for more stretch than a starting chain would.

A foundationless DC, or DC Chain, is my favorite way to start a simple, lengthwise scarf. It is also good for garments that you crochet from the bottom edge up, since it creates a stretchier edge as compared to a starting chain. It's easy to change a pattern that calls for a starting chain and then a row of DC. Just work a row of foundationless DC (or DC Chain) instead.
Start with a Ch 3. YO, insert hook into the first Ch, YO and pull through. YO and pull through one loop to create the base chain (3 loops remain on hook).
Now work a DC as normal - YO and pull through 2 loops, YO and pull through last 2 loops.
To work the next DC Ch, YO and insert the hook into what was the last base chain stitch. (To make this easier to find, I usually hold that stitch as I'm finishing the DC so I know where the chain stitch is when I move on to the next one.)
YO and pull through, creating the next base chain. (Hold this stitch if you want to to mark it.) Then work the DC - YO, pull through 2 loops. YO, pull through last 2 loops. Continue working DC Ch for as long as you want your project to be.
So each stitch consists of a base chain and finishes with a double crochet, all in one stitch.

I have incorporated this stitch in the foundation of my Circle Shrug Vest Pattern and the Long Fingerless Gloves pattern.