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How to Single Crochet (Step-by-Step for Absolute Beginners)

By Your Name1 min readBeginner

Single crochet is the first real stitch most people learn, and the one you'll use more than any other. Once you've got it, you can make dishcloths, scarves and even amigurumi.

Hands holding a crochet hook working a row of single crochet stitches Save

What You'll Learn

  • Explained in three simple motions, with a photo for each.
  • Includes the most common beginner mistakes and how to fix them.
  • Practice on a small swatch, then you're ready for your first project.

What you’ll need

  • Smooth worsted-weight (#4) yarn in a light color
  • A 5 mm (H-8) crochet hook
  • Scissors

Step-by-step: how to single crochet

Start with a foundation chain of 15 chains. You’ll work your first row of single crochet into the chains, starting with the second chain from the hook.

Step 1: Insert the hook

Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, from front to back.

Crochet hook inserted into the second chain from the hook

Step 2: Yarn over and pull up a loop

Yarn over (wrap the yarn over the hook from back to front) and pull it through the chain. You now have 2 loops on your hook.

Two loops on the crochet hook after pulling up a loop

Step 3: Yarn over and pull through both loops

Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook. That’s one single crochet! Repeat into each chain across.

A finished single crochet stitch with one loop left on the hook

Working the next rows

At the end of the row, chain 1 and turn your work. Single crochet into the first stitch and into each stitch across. The chain 1 does not count as a stitch.

Common beginner mistakes

  • Rows getting wider or narrower. Count your stitches at the end of every row. You should have 14.
  • Stitches too tight to work into. Relax your grip on the yarn and slide each loop onto the thick part of the hook.
  • Holes in the fabric. Make sure you go under both top loops of each stitch, not just one.

Frequently asked questions

What is single crochet called in UK terms?

In UK terms, single crochet (sc) is called double crochet (dc). The stitch is identical; only the name changes. See our crochet abbreviations page for all the US and UK terms.

What yarn is best for learning to crochet?

A smooth, light-colored worsted-weight (#4) yarn and a 5 mm (H-8) hook. Light colors make the stitches easier to see.