How to Single Crochet: 7 Step Beginner Tutorial

Steps

1. 1. Start With a Foundation Chain

   You'll need a foundation chain to single crochet into. This tutorial assumes you've already chained 30 stitches from the previous lesson.

   

2. 2. Find the Top Strand of Each Chain

   Look closely at your chain - each link has three yarn strands: a top strand on the front, a middle strand, and a bottom strand on the back. For single crochet you'll be working into just the top strand of each chain (sometimes patterns specify the back loop, but the top is the default).

   

3. 3. Insert Hook Into the Second Chain

   Skip the first chain (the loop already on your hook), and insert the hook into the SECOND chain from your hook. This is the most common beginner trip-up.

   

4. 4. Yarn Over and Pull Through

   Yarn over from underneath the working yarn (never from the top - it twists the stitch) and pull the loop through the chain you just inserted into. You now have two loops on your hook: the one that was already there, plus the new loop you just brought through.

   

5. 5. Yarn Over Again and Pull Through Both Loops

   Yarn over your hook again from underneath, then pull the new loop through both of the loops on the hook. You should be left with one loop on the hook and a finished stitch sitting on the chain.

   

6. 6. Repeat Across the Row

   Move to the next chain and do the same thing: insert hook, yarn over, pull through (two loops), yarn over, pull through both. Continue down the entire chain.

   

7. 7. Chain 1, Turn, Single Crochet Across

   To start the next row, chain 1 (yarn over and pull through to make a single chain stitch). Then turn your work over so the working edge is on the right.

   Tip: Cotton yarn for a first project is a smart choice - it doesn't stretch as much as acrylic, so your stitches stay where you put them while you're still figuring out tension.