If you’re new to crocheting, learn how to work the chain stitch with this easy tutorial. Get started with your first project today!
In this article, we’re taking it back to basics with the chain stitch in crochet. The chain stitch is usually the first step for beginners learning how to crochet, and it’s an important one!
Once you master the chain stitch, you’ll be able to move on to more complex stitches. Before you know it, you’ll be able to crochet beautiful designs and patterns.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to work the chain stitch in crochet so you can get started with your very first project.
Let’s dive in!
What is the Chain Stitch in Crochet?
The chain stitch is one of the most basic stitches in crochet. It’s used to create a chain of loops, which serves as the foundation for most crocheting projects.
It’s also often used to form edges or borders on projects and can be used to add decorative details. Because the chain stitch is the starting point of almost all crochet patterns, it’s important to master it before anything else.
Once you know how to chain stitch, you’ll be able to move on to more complicated stitches and designs.
What Materials or Tools Do You Need to Crochet?
To do the chain stitch in crochet, you’ll need the basic crochet supplies: a crochet hook and yarn.
Crochet Hook: A crochet hook is a tool used to create the chain stitch and other types of stitches. It usually has a long, thin handle and a hook at one end.
Yarn: Yarn is the material used when crocheting. It comes in a variety of materials, colors, and sizes.
When crocheting, you need to make sure you match up your crochet hook with the right weight of yarn. Different weights of yarn require different sizes of hooks.
Typically, thicker yarns need larger hooks, and thinner yarns need smaller hooks.
How to Work the Chain Stitch in Crochet Step-By-Step
Now that you know what materials and tools are needed, it’s time to learn how to chain stitch!
Crochet Abbreviations
For this pattern, I will be using the Craft Yarn Council U.S. abbreviations.
- yo: yarn over
- ch: chain stitch
Step 1: To start off we’ll need to make a slip knot. To make a slip knot first you’ll need to cross the end of the yarn over so it makes a circle.
Step 2: Then you’ll take the long end of the yarn and push it through the circle creating a loop.
Step 3: Pull the short end of the yarn until the loop tightens. Place your crochet hook in the loop.
Step 4: Once the slip knot is on your hook, you can begin chain stitching! To chain stitch, wrap the yarn around your crochet hook (this is called a yarn over or “yo”).
Step 5: Pull the wrapped yarn through the loop on your hook. Congratulations, you’ve worked your first chain stitch!
Step 6: Now you can chain stitch as many times as needed for your project. To chain stitch again, simply follow Steps 4 and 5 until you reach the desired chain stitch length.
How to Work the Chain Stitch Video Tutorial
In this video, you can follow along as we show you how to work the chain stitch in crochet step by step.
FAQs for Working the Chain Stitch in Crochet
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to work the chain stitch in crochet:
What is the difference between a chain and a stitch in crochet?
A chain is a foundation row of loops created by repeating the chain stitch. A stitch is a more detailed loop that is used to create patterns and designs in crochet projects. A chain is made up of multiple stitches.
Can I use any type of yarn when chain stitching?
Yes, you can use any type of yarn for chain stitching. However, it’s important to match the size of your crochet hook to the weight of your yarn. Thicker yarns need larger hooks and thinner yarns need smaller hooks.
What does chaining mean in crochet?
Chaining means creating a chain of stitches by repeating the chain stitch.
Is a chain stitch the same as a single crochet?
No, the chain stitch and single crochet are two different stitches. The chain stitch is used to create a chain of loops.
The single crochet stitch is a more detailed loop that can be used to create patterns and designs in projects. It involves working within existing stitches on a pattern where the chain stitch can be crocheted without existing stitches.
Where do I crochet into a chain?
When crocheting into a chain, you will crochet into the chain stitch’s loops. To do so, insert your hook under the top loop of the chain stitch and yarn over the hook to create the next stitch.
What does it mean to chain 1 crochet?
Chaining 1 in crochet means to chain stitch once. This is typically done at the beginning of a pattern or when you need to add an extra chain stitch for shaping or design purposes.
Why does my chain look messy?
If your chain looks messy, it could be because the chain stitches are too tight or too loose. Make sure to chain stitch at an even tension for a neat chain.
You can also use a crochet hook one size larger than the pattern recommends if you find yourself pulling too tightly when chain stitching.
How do I add more rows to my chain stitch?
To add more rows to your chain stitch, you will start crocheting back in the other direction using the chain stitches you already worked as your first row. You’ll also need to use another stitch such as a single crochet stitch or a double crochet stitch.
Conclusions to How to Work the Chain Stitch in Crochet
Now that you know how to chain stitch in crochet, you can get started on your first project! With practice, you’ll be able to chain stitch and create beautiful projects in no time. Good luck!
Thanks for reading through this tutorial on how to do the chain stitch. I hope it was helpful! If you have any questions, feel free to comment below.
