Crochet guide · Beginner level
Single crochet, the essential stitch
Learn this dense, sturdy and versatile stitch with a simple method, visual cues and tips to help you progress with confidence.
One basic motion today, countless projects tomorrow.
Single crochet, also known as single crochet and commonly abbreviated sc in many patterns, is the ideal stitch for beginning crochet. Simple, even and durable, it provides the foundation for amigurumi, bags, coasters and many everyday projects.
Why start with single crochet?
The motion is repetitive, helping you quickly become comfortable with the hook and yarn tension.
The resulting fabric is compact and leaves little of the gaps or stuffing visible.
The stitch can be worked flat, in joined rounds or in a spiral, depending on the project.
Materials needed
For a first swatch, you do not need many tools. Choose materials that are easy to handle and a yarn color light enough to distinguish the stitches.
- A ball of yarn of medium-weight cotton or acrylic yarn.
- A crochet hook that matches the yarn label, often between 4 and 5 mm for medium-weight yarn.
- A pair of scissors for the finishing touches.
- A tapestry needle and a stitch marker, both optional but useful.
For your first attempts, avoid very dark, fuzzy or uneven yarn: these types make the stitches harder to see.
Preparing the foundation chain
Make a chain with as many chain stitches as needed for the desired width, then add one chain stitch to turn. To make a small swatch of 10 single crochet stitches, start with 11 chain stitches.
The loop already on the hook does not count as one of the chain stitches: it is simply used to continue working.
Step-by-step tutorial
Insert the hook into the chain
Insert the hook into the second chain stitch from the hook. Do not count the loop already on the tool.
Make the first yarn over
Wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front, then pull it through the stitch. Two loops are now on the hook.
Make a second yarn over
Wrap the yarn around the hook once again, then prepare to pull it through both loops.
Finish the stitch
Pull the yarn through both loops. Only one loop remains on the hook: your single crochet is complete.
Repeat across the row
Insert the hook into the next stitch and repeat the same sequence until the last stitch of the row.
Turn the work
Make one chain stitch, turn your work and begin in the very first stitch of the new row.
Recognizing a stitch and keeping the right count
Viewed from above, each stitch looks like a small V. To work the next row, you will usually insert the hook under both strands of this V, unless your pattern tells you to work into the front loop or back loop only.
The most common mistakes
The project gets narrower
You have probably forgotten the last stitch of the row. Count your stitches before turning and check that both edges remain straight.
The project gets wider
You may be working into the turning chain or into a space next to the first stitch. Place a stitch marker if necessary.
The hook feels tight
Your tension is probably too tight. Relax the hand guiding the yarn and slightly enlarge the loop after pulling it through.
The stitches are hard to see
Choose a light-colored, low-fuzz yarn. A slightly larger hook can also make the motion more comfortable.
Back and forth, joined rounds or spiral?
| Method | Best for | Point to remember |
|---|---|---|
| Back and forth | Squares, scarves, blankets and flat pieces | Make one chain stitch before every new row. |
| Joined rounds | Coasters, baskets and circular bases | Close the round with a slip stitch when the pattern calls for it. |
| Spiral | Amigurumi and three-dimensional shapes | Use a stitch marker to identify the beginning of the round. |
A simple practice exercise
Make a chain of 10 chain stitches, then crochet 8 to 10 rows of single crochet. At each row, check the stitch count and observe the shape of the edges. The goal is not to make a perfect swatch right away, but to find a comfortable, even tension.
Key takeaway
Single crochet follows a very simple sequence: insert the hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over again, then pull through both loops. Count your stitches, keep a relaxed tension and let repetition establish the motion.
Frequently asked questions
Is single crochet the same as the French term maille serrée?
Yes. In English-language patterns, the stitch is generally abbreviated as sc, for single crochet.
Do you always need a chain stitch to turn?
For a project worked back and forth, you will generally make one chain stitch before turning. Always follow the specific instructions in the pattern you are using.
Why is my swatch too stiff?
Tension that is too tight or a hook that is too small can make the fabric very compact. Try relaxing your fingers or moving up to a slightly larger hook.