Help with crochet pattern?

Question

Im a beginner and wishing to make this ripple blanket, but im not sure on the start of the second row which is:

Skip first dc; dc in next 7 dc

How do you Skip the first dc? Does it mean skip the first 3 chains?

the whole pattern...

Row 1: Dc in 3rd ch from hook; dc in next 6 ch, 3 dc in next ch, dc in next 6 ch; *work 3 st dec in next 3 ch, dc in next 6 ch, 3 dc in next ch, dc in next 6 ch; Repeat from * across. End by working 2 st dec in last 2 ch. Ch 2 and turn.

Note: The valleys will probably be shallower than the peaks at this point. Work another row or two and they should even up.

Row 2: Skip first dc; dc in next 7 dc, 3 dc in next dc, dc in next 6 dc; *work 3 st dec in next 3 stitches, dc in next 6 dc, 3 dc in next dc, dc in next 6 dc; Repeat from * across. End by working 2 st dec in last 2 dc. Ch 2 and turn.

Answer 1

After your initial chain you turn the chain then you skip the first 3 chains which then becomes your first Double Crochet then go on to finish the row. Then on the 2nd row after turning you skip the first double crochet (which is the 2 st dec on the previous row) then you dc in next 7 dc (this gives you the hills and valleys you need to make up the pattern). If you need more help just ask. I will try to help.

Linda

Answer 2

The chain 3 from the beginning of the first row counts as a dc.  Since crochet stitches are built upwards, then a number of chain will equal a stitch (single is 1 chain, half double/dc is 2, triple is three).  So in when it says dc in 3rd chain from hook you are actually making the 2nd st in the row (chain skipped =1 st and dc=2nd st).

When you turn the work and start the second row you are not starting at the side with the 3 chains, you are starting at the end of the last row, which was ended with chain 2.  That chain 2 counts as the first st in the row, that is why you skip the first dc, which is the last actual st you made (not chain).

Answer 3

you chain 3 and turn then skip the next stitch, then continue with pattern.  This may be done on each row, but it is simple once you understand