I don't ever want to go back to the 'ole ball and chain. The crocheted chain, that is. Once I discovered foundation slip stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, so on and so forth--wow...GAME CHANGER! I now start all my projects with foundation chains, they are seriously great. They provide just the right amount of give and nice professional touch to crochet projects - especially crochet garments. If you don't already use them, start today, you will not regret it. Need some direction, see below:
Foundation single crochet
Ch 2, insert hook in 2nd ch from hook, yo and draw up a loop, yo and draw through first loop on hook, yo and draw through 2 loops on hook, *insert hook under the two loops of the first sc just made, yo and draw up a loop, yo and draw through first loop on hook, yo and draw through two loops on hook; rep from * for indicated number of foundation stitches.
Go on and try it out, I am sure you'll become a believer! Happy yarning!