How to single crochet

Learn single crochet one motion at a time, with loop counts and a short practice strip.

Step 1 Insert the hook into the next stitch, under both strands of its top V. On the first row, go into the next chain.

Step 1 Insert the hook into the next stitch, under both strands of its top V. On the first row, go into the next chain.
Step 2 Yarn over and pull up a loop; two loops are on the hook.
Step 3 Yarn over and draw through both loops.

What it looks like Short, firm rows of small V tops. The densest of the basic stitches.

Hook in your right hand; guide the working yarn with your left hand. The loop counts stay the same.

For stitches worked into a previous row, go under both strands of the top V unless the pattern says otherwise. Work into an individual chain when starting a foundation row.

Make the stitch

Insert the hook into the next stitch, under both strands of its top V. On the first row, go into the next chain. Yarn over and pull up a loop; two loops are on the hook.

US terms Single crochetUK name double crochet (dc)Em português ponto baixo (pb)

In this lesson

Before you start Step by step Practice and finish Common mistakes

Before you start

Chain stitch and a foundation chain. Practice with smooth, light yarn so the top loops are easy to see.

New to holding the hook or making a slip knot? Start there, then return to this lesson.

Make the stitch

Insert the hook into the next stitch, under both strands of its top V. On the first row, go into the next chain.
Yarn over and pull up a loop; two loops are on the hook.
Yarn over and draw through both loops.

Count check: Each finished stitch leaves one V on top of the row: count the Vs, not the loops on your hook.

Try a practice strip

Chain 11. Single crochet into the second chain from the hook, then into each remaining chain: 10 stitches. Chain 1 and turn. The chain 1 does not count. Work 1 single crochet into each of the 10 stitches, chain 1 and turn, until you have 5 rows in all, counting the first.

Put a removable marker in the first and last stitch of the row. Count before you turn. Different patterns treat turning chains differently; the rule above belongs to this practice strip.

Common mistakes to catch

Skipping the first or last stitch of a row. Mark both edge stitches and count 10 stitches before each turn.
Working through only one top loop when both loops are intended. Find the two strands of the top V and pass the hook beneath both.
Accidentally placing two stitches in one stitch. Undo the extra stitch and work once into each marked top V.

Keep going

Use single crochet in a first washcloth.

Next lesson: Half double crochet →

Before making a sized project, learn to measure a swatch. If a pattern uses a different hook label, convert the hook size.