Crochet begins with the simplest of stitches — the single crochet. It’s the building block of so many cosy, textured projects, and once you’ve mastered it, you’ll be ready to take on almost any pattern. In this beginner-friendly tutorial, we’ll walk through how to do a single crochet stitch slowly and clearly, with photos and a video to guide you every step of the way.
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I use the single crochet in lots and lots of my patterns, such as the upcoming Free Crochet Christmas Tree Skirt Pattern, as well as in all of my mosaic crochet patterns.
What is the Single Crochet Stitch?
The single crochet stitch is the first proper stitch you’ll learn in crochet, after you’ve perfected the slipknot and chain. It’s a short stitch which creates a dense, even fabric, perfect for garments, blankets, and homewares alike.
The single crochet is a US crochet term, which is abbreviated to sc in patterns. In UK terms, this same stitch is called a double crochet (dc) stitch.
Single crochet can be worked in rows and rounds, and is used in so many different techniques, from mosaic crochet to tapestry crochet to amigurumi! It really is a fundamental stitch to learn!
How to Crochet the Single Crochet Stitch
Here’s a quick step-by-step:
- Insert your hook into the stitch.
- Yarn over and pull through a loop. [2 loops on the hook]
- Yarn over.
- Pull through both loops on the hook to complete your sc stitch.
You will need
You can try this tutorial with any yarn and a corresponding hook. I used:
Stylecraft Special DK, 100% acrylic, (100g/3.53oz, 295m/323yds)
4.0mm Crochet Hook or hook needed for your yarn
Tapestry needle for working in ends
Stitch markers (optional)
Pin this single crochet stitch for beginners to your Crochet Pinterest Board for Later
Single Crochet YouTube Video Tutorial
If you prefer crocheting from a video tutorial, watch as I crochet the single crochet:
How do I Crochet the Single Crochet? – Photo Tutorial
Start by creating a slipknot on your hook and then make a foundation chain of any number. Start working into the second chain from the hook.
You will note that when you work a single crochet into the foundation chain, you will only insert your hook into 1 loop of the chain. When you work subsequent rows or rounds, you will work through both loops of the previous row’s stitch.
Apart from the above, the following process is the same whether you are working into the chain or into a previous row of stitches.
- Insert your hook into the stitch you wish to work in.
2. Wrap your yarn over your hook.
3. Pull a loop through the stitch.
4. Wrap your yarn around your hook again.
5. Pull through both loops on the hook to complete your first single crochet stitch.
Continue across the row in the same way!
And there you have it! Turn and continue making more rows of single crochet, making a chain 1 at the start of the row for your turning chain. This chain 1 brings your yarn up to the right level for the next row of stitches.
Tips for Crocheting the Single Crochet Stitch
- Practice keeping a nice even tension.
- Be sure not to pull your starting chain too tight, as this can make it hard to work the single crochets into.
- Use stitch markers to mark the first and last stitch of each row – this will help ensure you don’t add or miss any stitches.
- This tutorial uses US crochet terminology.
- Did you know that you can also work the single crochet in the round too?
Working in the Round vs. Working in Rows
The single crochet stitch can be worked in rounds as well as rows and is worked in exactly the same way as shown for rows above. When you reach the end of the round, slip stitch into the first stitch to join and then continue with a chain 1 and the next single crochet stitch.
Working in the Front Loop and the Back Loop
I mentioned before that we work our single crochet stitch through both loops of the stitch from the previous row. In actual fact we can also work single crochet stitches through just one of the loops.
By working through the front loops or the back loops (or a combination of the two!) we can create some stunning textured effects.
To work a single crochet in the front loop only (flo), work your single crochet as before but only insert the hook under the loop nearest to you:
To work a single crochet in the back loop only (blo), insert the hook through the loop furthest away from you:
Increases & decreases
We can use single crochet stitches to increase and decrease the number of stitches across a row or in a round. This is particularly used in amigurumi, where a lot of the designs are made in continuous spirals in the round.
To make an increase, we simply make two single crochet stitches into the same stitch.
A decrease is slightly more complicated, as we work one single crochet stitch over two stitches from the row below. To do this, you work as follows:
Insert your hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull through a loop, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook.
Tension & practice swatch (gauge note)
Before you jump into a full project, it’s a good idea to make a small practice swatch. This helps you get used to holding your yarn and hook comfortably and keeps your stitches even. Aim for gentle, consistent tension — not too tight or loose — so your hook glides easily through each stitch.
For most projects, a neat, even fabric matters more than exact gauge at this stage, but if you plan to follow a pattern later, you’ll want to match the designer’s stitch size to make sure your finished piece turns out the right size.
Common Single Crochet Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
Even the simplest stitches can be tricky at first — so don’t worry if your single crochet doesn’t look perfect right away! Here are a few common hiccups and how to fix them:
1. Skipping the first stitch of the row
It’s easy to miss that very first stitch after your turning chain, which makes your rows slowly shrink. Count your stitches regularly and make sure your hook goes under both top loops of the first stitch each time.
2. Adding extra stitches at the end
Sometimes we accidentally work into the side of the turning chain — adding an unwanted stitch and making the edges wobbly. Keep an eye on where your last stitch belongs, and use stitch markers at the start and end of each row until it becomes habit.
3. Uneven tension
If some stitches look loose and others tight, you might be gripping the yarn or hook differently as you work. Relax your hands and practice pulling the yarn through with the same gentle movement each time.
4. Stiff fabric or sore hands
If your stitches are too tight or hard to insert the hook into, try going up a hook size. Looser stitches are easier to work with and give a softer finish.
Tip: Everyone’s single crochet looks a bit different at first — it’s part of learning! A few small practice squares are the best way to build muscle memory and confidence.
And that’s it! The single crochet stitch is a lovely crochet stitch, the building blocks of so many future projects on your crochet journey! Don’t forget to check out my crochet patterns for more crochet inspiration.
More Crochet Stitches
I have lots of crochet stitch tutorials over on my YouTube channel so please do check them out. Here are some you might like:
- Crab stitch
- Double treble crochet stitches
- Even berry crochet stitch
- Stacked double crochet
- Crunch stitch
Find me on Facebook or Instagram @concretegemscrochet or drop me a message if you have any questions.
What Projects can I make with Single Crochet?
If you enjoyed learning how to do a single crochet stitch, then you might also like these:
How about making a Christmas design? This free crochet bauble pattern features a stunning mosaic crochet snowflake motif.
Did you know that this mosaic crochet design uses just single crochet in the back loops and double crochet stitches?
This crochet Christmas Garland pattern uses single crochet stitches to create the hanging Christmas trees.
The snowflake are slightly more complex but there is a video tutorial to help with the tricky parts.
What next?
I hope you’ve enjoyed this tutorial, please do stick around and see what else you’d like to try on my website. You can find my other stitch tutorials here. You might like to learn the Waistcoat stitch!
I’m Gemma, a crochet tech editor, designer and overall crochet enthusiast. I’m also a mum of 3 kids, and enjoy running, reading, walking and crafting, but mostly crochet!
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If you enjoyed making the single crochet stitch or maybe made a project using this tutorial, please consider sharing it to social media tagging @concretegemscrochet
Join the Concrete Gems Crochet Community for pattern support!
Other crochet patterns you might enjoy
- Simple Crochet Triangle Shawl Pattern – easy yet stunning with a gorgeous drape
- Easy Crochet Cushion Cover Free Pattern – a geometric mosaic crochet design
- Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern – a fun, quick sling bag with granny squares
And don’t forget to check out the Woodland Advent Calendar, featuring this fabulous stitch!
Thanks for reading and happy crocheting! 🧶
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