How to single crochet

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

US terms Single crochetUK name double crochet (dc)
In this lessonBefore you startStep by stepPractice and finishCommon 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

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

Both top loopsInsert here
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.
Working yarnHook shaft2 loops on hook12
After pulling a loop through the stitch: yarn over, then pull through loops 1 and 2. One loop remains.
  1. Insert the hook into the named stitch.
  2. Yarn over and pull up a loop; two loops are on the hook.
  3. Yarn over and draw through both loops.

Count check: One completed pull-through through both loops makes one stitch.

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 for 5 rows.

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.

CYC stitch terminologyAbout the lessons and drawings