Learning how to crochet is easy once you understand the basic stitches. If you’ve never tried to crochet before, we’ll walk you through the crochet stitches you’re likely to find on patterns, from the easiest to the most complicated ones. Once you’ve mastered these basic stitches, you’ll be able to crochet just about any beginner-level project. And, when you are confident with the basics you can easily move to complicated stitches and patterns.
Our step-by-step guide will help you learn how to crochet the stitches and get you started as soon as possible.
Things you will need
Crochet is one of the popular yarn crafts that just need the right tools and creativity to create some wonders. To start with, it is important to have the right hook in the appropriate sizes. You can refer to our blog on how to choose the right crochet hook for a project. The general rule is bigger the hook, the bigger the loop, and the smaller the hook, the smaller the loop. We recommend trying out H size (5mm) hooks if you are just beginning. They are the ideal size. You can start with the single-ended crochet hook or even the ergonomic Tunisian hooks with interchangeable cables.
The next thing you need is yarn. If you have old yarn leftover in your craft closet, we recommend starting with that or if you are going to the local yarn store, get some smooth worsted weight yarn, ideal for beginners.
Before you begin, understand the ways to hold a crochet hook. Generally, a crochet hook is held like a pen or knife with every crafter having their own preference. If you are comfortable holding your crochet hook between your forefingers like a pen about to write something. Then you are a pen holder. While if you hold the hook as if you were about to eat, you are the knife holder and use your wrist. Both the ways are correct and only the holder feels the difference.
With the right tools and yarn, let’s begin.
1. Slip Knot
The slip knot is not a crochet stitch but essentially the first step to begin any project. This keeps the yarn from unraveling. So, let’s get to learn how it is done.
Step 1 - Hold the yarn in a loop shape, leaving 6-8 inches of yarn hanging from the end.
Step 2 - Insert your fingers into the loop and grab the yarn that leads back to your ball of yarn creating another little loop.
Step 3 - Slip the loop onto your crochet hook. Pull both ends of the yarn to make the loop tighter.
With this, you can proceed with other stitches.
2. Chain Stitch (CH)
The chain stitch abbreviated CH is the basic crochet stitch that all beginners need to know. The starting point for almost all crochet patterns, a series of chain stitches forms the foundation for the rest of the project.
Step 1 - Make a slip knot (like discussed above) on the crochet hook.
Step 2 - Yarn over and pull up a new loop.
Step 3 - The first chain stitch is complete.
Step 4 - Repeat to make the next chain stitch and the rest of the foundation chain.
3. Single Crochet (SC)
The single crochet stitch abbreviated SC is an easy stitch that’s super versatile. You will find this stitch in almost all patterns. In UK crochet patterns, you will see it called double crochet (dc).
This particular stitch features in various projects, including scarves, hats, and baby blankets. It’s also very popular for making Amigurumi toys. So, here is how to go about it.
Step 1 – Start with a slip knot and crochet a chain.
Step 2 - Insert the hook into the second loop of the chain. Yarn over hook and draw yarn through work only.
Step 3 - Yarn over the hook again and draw yarn through both loops on the hook, this is how one single crochet is made.
Step 4 – Keep making the loops and complete a row.
4. Half Double Crochet (HDC)
The half-double crochet stitch, abbreviated HDC, is another one of the basic beginner stitches. In UK terms, it’s called a half treble crochet stitch.
A simple stitch that’s easy to learn and fun to make is perfect for crocheting various projects from baby blankets to scarves or even sweaters! This is one step above the single crochet stitch.
Step 1 - Yarn over the hook and insert the hook into the work. Hook through the third loop of the chain from the crochet hook on the starting chain.
Step 2 - Yarn over the hook and draw up a loop through the three loops on the hook.
Step 3 - Yarn over the hook again and draw through all three loops on the hook to make one half double crochet stitch.
Step 4 - Keep making the HDC stitches for a row or till the pattern demonstrates.
While you keep practicing these basic stitches, we’ll be back with the rest of the crochet stitches in our next blog. remember, patience is the key. Your stitches might not come out as you want initially but with practice, you will create wonders.