Crochet Stitches

Crocheting involves only a limited number of crochet stitches, but by combining them, you can create many different patterns. There are symbols that represent each crochet stitch and are used in all crochet pattern instructions.

Before you begin your project, read all of the instructions carefully to make sure that you understand all of the abbreviations. Next, you should learn about the different sizes of crochet hooks, as well as the different types of crochet threads and yarns. You must use the correct hook size and the correct thread in order for your project to turn out correctly. Once you have reviewed these basics, you are ready to try your hand at crocheting.

The first crochet stitch you will need to learn is a slipknot. This consists of making a loop with your yarn, and then pulling your yarn strand through the loop to make a ring. Pull the knot snug, and slip your hook through the ring. You are now ready to begin with a chain stitch. The chain stitch is the foundation stitch for all crochet. Nearly every pattern you work will call for a row of chain stitches to begin your crocheted piece.

The main crochet stitches that you should know for basic crocheting are:

1. Chain stitch - (ch) - Wrap the yarn over the hook and draw the yarn through to form a new loop.
2. Single crochet - (sc) - Insert your hook into the stitch or space indicated, then yarn over and pull up a loop. (You should have two loops on your hook.) Yarn over and draw through both of the loops on your hook.
3. Slip stitch - (sl st) - Insert the hook into the work as indicated, wrap the yarn over the hook, draw the yarn through the work and the loop on the hook in one movement.
4. Half double crochet - (hdc) - Yarn over and insert your hook into the stitch or space indicated, yarn over and pull up a loop. (You should have 3 loops on your hook.) Yarn over again and draw through all three of the loops on the hook.
5. Double crochet - (dc) - Yarn over and insert your hook into the stitch or space indicated. Yarn over and pull up a loop. (3 loops on hook.) Yarn over and draw through 2 of the loops. (2 loops on hook.) Yarn over and draw through the last 2 of the loops.
6. Triple crochet - (tr) - Yarn over twice, then insert your hook into the stitch or space indicated. Yarn over and pull up a loop. (4 loops on hook.) Yarn over and draw through 2 loops. (3 loops on hook.) Yarn over and draw through 2 loops. (2 loops on hook.) Yarn over and draw through two loops.

Once you have mastered the basic crochet stitches, (which should only take a few moments for each stitch), you are ready to begin exploring the world of crochet. All of the stitches are all done in an identical manner – the only difference will be the number of times you bring your yarn around your hook before completing the stitch.

One fun way to learn the basic crochet stitch is by working a granny square. This pattern will teach you the foundational chain stitch, the double crochet, and a slip stitch which is used for joining rows that are worked in rounds. With the knowledge of how to make a granny square, you are on your way to the creation of blankets, purses, scarves and ponchos. Granny squares are wonderfully versatile and only limited in design and color by your imagination.

Start the basic square by making 5 chains, using a medium worsted weight yarn and size H crochet hook. Join your first chain with your last chain with a slip stitch. You now have a little circle. The first round will be worked entirely into this little ring. Chain 3 to act as your first dc (double crochet). Work 2 dc into the circle. Make 3 chains. Repeat this pattern three more times. Attach your last chain to the top chain of your starting chain 3. Chain 3 to act as your first dc of the round. Work a dc in the hole made by the chain 3. Chain 2 and work 2 dc in the same hole. Now work a dc in each of the stitches across until you reach the next chain 3 hole. Work 2 dc in the hole, 2 chains and 3 dc. Follow this pattern until the granny square is the size you prefer. To finish, cut the yarn and pull it through the last yarn loop on your hook. Work the tail into the last row of crochet.

Once you have learned the basic crochet stitch in a granny square, you will be ready to move on to other types of patterns for scarves and blankets. The possibilities are virtually endless in the projects you can create with just a few basic crochet stitches. Grab your hook and yarn, and get ready to have some fun!