How to Single Crochet: Easy Beginner Tutorial
Single Crochet at a Glance
- Topic: single crochet
- Skill level: beginner
- Main goal: help the reader learn the single crochet stitch from scratch with step-by-step instructions
- Related topics: crochet stitches for beginners, half double crochet, double crochet, amigurumi basics
Quick Answer
The single crochet stitch (abbreviated SC) is the most fundamental stitch in crochet and the best one to learn first. It creates a tight, dense fabric perfect for amigurumi, dishcloths, and bags. You can master it in under 10 minutes by following our step-by-step photo guide below.
Tip: Always insert your hook under both top loops of each stitch for the neatest, most even fabric.
At a Glance
- Skill level: complete beginner
- Time needed: 10-15 minutes to learn the stitch
- Best yarn: worsted weight (category 4) in a light solid color
- Hook size: 5.0 mm (H-8)
Common Mistakes to Quick Fixes
- Stitch count changing each row: count your stitches at the end of every row and use stitch markers on the first and last stitch
- Fabric too tight: relax your grip on the yarn and try a larger hook size
- Edges uneven: make sure you are placing your first stitch in the correct stitch, not the turning chain
Mini Glossary
SC (single crochet), CH (chain), YO (yarn over), SL ST (slip stitch), BLO (back loop only), FO (fasten off), GAUGE
The SC stitch is the one most crocheters recommend learning first, and for good reason. It is the foundation of amigurumi, dishcloths, bags, and countless other projects. Once you master it, every other stitch becomes significantly easier to pick up. We have put together this guide with clear step-by-step instructions so you can learn it once and learn it right.
What Is the Single Crochet Stitch?
The single crochet stitch, abbreviated as SC, is the most fundamental stitch in crochet and the one used most frequently across all pattern types. It creates a tight, dense fabric that is perfect for amigurumi, bags, dishcloths, and any project that needs a sturdy, close-woven texture. If you are brand new to crochet, this stitch is typically the first one you should learn after mastering the foundation chain.
Unlike taller stitches such as the half double crochet or double crochet, the single crochet produces a shorter, more compact stitch. This makes it ideal for projects where you want minimal gaps between stitches. It is also the foundation for many textured stitch patterns, including the moss stitch, basketweave, and ribbing.
In US crochet terminology, “single crochet” is the standard name. In UK terminology, this same stitch is called “double crochet” — so always check which terminology your pattern uses before starting.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these basic supplies. You do not need anything expensive or specialized to learn this foundational stitch.
- Yarn: Worsted weight (category 4) or aran yarn is ideal for beginners. Choose a light, solid color so you can easily see your stitches. Dark colors and highly textured yarns make it harder to spot mistakes.
- Crochet hook: A 5.0 mm (H-8) hook pairs well with worsted weight yarn. If your yarn label recommends a different size, follow that recommendation.
- Scissors: Any pair of sharp scissors for cutting your yarn at the end.
- Tapestry needle (optional): A blunt needle with a large eye for weaving in your loose ends when you finish.
- For standardized hook sizing and yarn weight references, see the Craft Yarn Council yarn weight system.
How to Single Crochet: Step-by-Step
Here is the method most instructors recommend — six steps that become second nature once you find your rhythm to create your first single crochet stitch. If you have already made a foundation chain, start at step 1. If not, chain 20 stitches to practice on.
Step 1 — Insert your hook. Insert your crochet hook into the second chain from your hook. The “second chain” means you skip the very first chain stitch closest to the hook and go into the next one. Insert the hook under the top two loops of the chain stitch (the V shape on top).
Step 2 — Yarn over. Wrap your yarn over the hook from back to front. This is called a “yarn over” and is abbreviated as YO in patterns. Keep the yarn tension gentle but consistent — not too tight, not too loose.
Step 3 — Pull through. Pull the yarn through the chain stitch. You should now have two loops on your hook. This is sometimes called “pull up a loop.”
Step 4 — Yarn over again. Wrap the yarn over your hook once more, just like in step 2.
Step 5 — Pull through both loops. Pull the yarn through both loops that are on your hook. You should now have only one loop remaining on your hook. That completes one single crochet stitch.
Step 6 — Repeat. Move to the next chain stitch and repeat steps 1 through 5. Continue across your foundation chain until you reach the end. At the end of the row, chain 1 and turn your work to start the next row.
Tip: The chain 1 at the end of each row does NOT count as a stitch in single crochet. Always place your first single crochet of the new row into the very first stitch of the previous row, not into the chain-1 space.
Single Crochet Tips for Beginners
- Count your stitches after every row. This is the single most important habit for beginners. If you started with 20 stitches, you should end every row with exactly 20 stitches. If you have more, you accidentally increased. If you have fewer, you missed a stitch.
- Watch your tension. Consistent tension creates even, uniform stitches. If your stitches are getting tighter as you go, try relaxing your grip on the yarn. If they are getting looser, hold the yarn slightly tighter.
- Work under both loops. Unless a pattern tells you otherwise, always insert your hook under both top loops (the V shape) of each stitch. This creates the neatest, most even fabric.
- Use stitch markers. Place a stitch marker in the first and last stitch of each row. This makes it much easier to see where each row begins and ends, especially as your project grows.
- Do not overthink it. Single crochet is the simplest stitch. If your first few rows look a little uneven, that is completely normal. Keep going — your tension and consistency will improve with every row.
Free Single Crochet Practice Pattern
This dishcloth pattern is one of the most popular beginner projects in the crochet community — simple, practical, and easy to complete is the perfect first project. It uses only single crochet stitches and creates a practical, usable item. Make one for yourself and several as gifts.
Quick & Easy Single Crochet Dishcloth
Finished size: Approximately 7″ x 7″ (18 cm x 18 cm)
Yarn: 50 yards of worsted weight cotton yarn (any color)
Hook: 5.0 mm (H-8)
Gauge: 16 SC = 4″ (10 cm)
Abbreviations: CH = chain, SC = single crochet
Instructions:
Chain 28.
Row 1: SC in the 2nd chain from hook and in each chain across. Turn. (27 SC)
Row 2: Chain 1. SC in each stitch across. Turn. (27 SC)
Rows 3–24: Repeat Row 2.
Fasten off, leaving a 6-inch tail. Weave in both ends with your tapestry needle.
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That i
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p>s it. One stitch, one simple pattern, and you have a finished dishcloth. Once you are comfortable with this, check out our free crochet patterns page for more beginner-friendly projects.
Single Crochet FAQs
What does SC mean in crochet?
SC stands for “single crochet.” It is the shortest and most basic of the standard crochet stitches. In patterns, you will see it written as “SC” or sometimes as “sc” (lowercase). Each SC instruction means: insert hook, yarn over, pull through, yarn over, pull through both loops.
Is single crochet the same as slip stitch?
No, they are different stitches. A slip stitch (SL ST) is even shorter and simpler than a single crochet — you insert your hook, yarn over, and pull through all loops on the hook in one motion. A single crochet has an extra step: you yarn over and pull through only two loops first, then yarn over and pull through the remaining loops. The result is that single crochet adds height and structure, while slip stitch is mainly used for joining or moving across a row without adding height.
How do I increase with single crochet?
To increase in single crochet, simply work two single crochet stitches into the same stitch. Insert your hook into the stitch, complete the SC as normal, then insert your hook into the same stitch again and complete another SC. This adds one stitch to your row. To decrease, insert your hook through the front loop of the next two stitches, yarn over, pull through both stitches, yarn over, and pull through all three loops on your hook.
What projects use single crochet?
Single crochet is incredibly versatile. It is used for amigurumi (stuffed toys), dishcloths, coasters, tote bags, cowls, scarves, baby blankets, and more. Because it creates a dense, gap-free fabric, it is especially popular for items that need to hold their shape or hold small items. Many intermediate stitch patterns like the basketweave, waffle stitch, and lemon peel stitch are built entirely from single crochet combinations.
Ready to keep learning? Check out our beginner crochet guide for more foundational techniques, or try the half double crochet stitch for the next step up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is single crochet the easiest stitch for beginners?
Yes, single crochet is widely considered the easiest and most fundamental stitch for beginners to learn in crochet. It involves just two steps—inserting the hook, yarn over, pulling through, yarn over again, and pulling through both loops on the hook. Mastering single crochet first gives you the foundation to learn taller stitches and more complex techniques with confidence.
How do I keep my single crochet edges straight?
To keep your single crochet edges straight, always chain one for your turning chain and make sure you work a single crochet into the very first stitch of each row. Using a stitch marker in the first and last stitch of every row helps you identify the correct placement and prevents accidentally skipping or adding stitches. Consistent tension is essential for keeping your single crochet edges looking clean and even throughout your project.
What is the turning chain for single crochet?
The turning chain for single crochet is one chain stitch, which is often referred to as a chain one and typically does not count as a stitch. You should work your first single crochet of each row directly into the first stitch of the previous row, not into the turning chain. This simple rule keeps your single crochet edges neat and prevents gaps from forming at the beginning of rows.
Why does my single crochet fabric curl?
Your single crochet fabric may curl because the stitch creates a naturally dense and slightly stiff fabric that can pull inward at the edges. This curling is especially common if your tension is too tight or if you are working with a yarn that has little drape. Blocking your finished single crochet project by pinning it flat and steaming or wetting it will relax the fibers and eliminate most curling.
