Single Crochet Stitch for Beginners: Easy 7-Step Guide

Learning the single crochet stitch for beginners is the quickest way to start making firm, useful fabric. This photo tutorial shows exactly where to insert the hook, how to pull up a loop and how to finish each stitch without tightening it too much.

Single Crochet Stitch: What You Need

• Medium-weight smooth cotton or acrylic yarn in a light color
• A 5 mm crochet hook, or the size recommended on the yarn label
• Scissors and one stitch marker

This lesson uses US terminology. In UK patterns, US single crochet is called double crochet.

Abbreviations

ch chain; sc single crochet; st stitch; yo yarn over. The turning chain does not count as a stitch in this tutorial.

Step 1: Make the Foundation Chain

Make a slip knot, place it on the hook and chain 16. Hold the chain with the front V shapes facing you. Do not count the loop currently on the hook.

Step 2: Insert the Hook

Skip the first chain and insert the hook under the top loop of the second chain. For a firmer first edge, work under both top loops. Whichever method you choose, use it consistently across the row.

Step 3: Yarn Over

Bring the working yarn over the hook from back to front. Rotate the hook slightly downward so its throat catches the yarn without splitting it.

Step 4: Pull Up a Loop

Draw the yarn through the chain only. You now have two loops on the hook. Keep both loops tall enough to slide along the hook shaft.

Step 5: Finish the Stitch

Yarn over again and pull through both loops in one smooth motion. One loop remains on the hook and your first single crochet is complete.

Step 6: Continue the First Row

Work one single crochet in every remaining chain. You should have 15 stitches. Count the small V shapes along the top rather than the vertical posts.

How to Work the Next Row

Chain one and turn. Insert the hook under both loops of the first stitch, not into the turning chain. Work 15 sc and mark the first stitch until you can recognize both edges easily.

How to Count Single Crochet Rows

Each row creates a line of compact V-shaped stitch tops and short vertical posts. Place a removable marker in the first row, then count the horizontal ridges upward. Ten rows of practice are enough to reveal whether your tension and edges are consistent.

Common Problems

• Fabric curls: relax the foundation chain or use a hook one size larger for the chain only.
• Edges shrink: you are probably skipping the first or last stitch; use markers.
• Hook will not enter: move each loop onto the hook shaft before completing it.
• Gaps appear: reduce the hook size or slightly tighten the working loop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the hook go?

For standard single crochet, insert it under both top loops of the next stitch. Work in one loop only when a pattern specifically says front loop or back loop.

Does the turning chain count?

Not in this tutorial. Always follow the note in the pattern you are using.

What can I make after this lesson?

Practise on our easy crochet coaster, then learn the magic ring for amigurumi.

Single crochet stitch for beginners: Final Checklist

Before finishing this single crochet stitch for beginners, confirm the stitch count, shape, seam strength and care instructions. Photograph the completed single crochet stitch for beginners in natural light and record the yarn and hook used so the result can be repeated accurately.