Every crochet project in the world — from a simple dishcloth to a detailed amigurumi fox — is built from just a few basic stitches. Master these six and you'll be able to follow most beginner and intermediate patterns. All terms below are US terms (see our guide on how to read a crochet pattern for the UK equivalents).
Before you start: holding the hook and yarn
There are two common ways to hold a crochet hook: the pencil grip (like writing) and the knife grip (hand over the top of the hook). Neither is "correct" — choose whichever feels relaxed. Your other hand holds the working yarn and controls tension, usually by wrapping the yarn over your index finger. Relaxed hands make even stitches; a death grip makes sore wrists and tight, uneven fabric. If your hands tire quickly, an ergonomic crochet hook can make a big difference.
1. Slip knot
Not technically a stitch, but it's how almost every project begins. Make a loop with the yarn, pull a second loop through it, place it on your hook and tighten gently. It should slide easily on the hook, not choke it.
2. Chain (ch)
How: Yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front), then pull it through the loop on your hook. That's one chain.
Used for: the foundation row of flat projects, turning chains, and spaces in lacy designs.
Tip: Beginners tend to chain too tightly, which makes the first row hard to work into. If that happens, use a hook one size larger just for the foundation chain.
3. Slip stitch (sl st)
How: Insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over, and pull through both the stitch and the loop on your hook in one motion.
Used for: joining rounds, moving across stitches without adding height, and neat finishing edges.
4. Single crochet (sc)
How: Insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop (2 loops on hook). Yarn over again and pull through both loops.
Used for: dense, sturdy fabric. This is the stitch of amigurumi — almost every toy, keychain and plush is worked mostly in single crochet so the stuffing stays hidden.
5. Half double crochet (hdc)
How: Yarn over, insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops at once.
Used for: hats, scarves and blankets. It's a little taller than single crochet, works up faster, and still makes a warm, fairly solid fabric.
6. Double crochet (dc)
How: Yarn over, insert the hook, yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Yarn over, pull through 2 loops (2 remain). Yarn over, pull through the last 2 loops.
Used for: granny squares, shawls, flowers and quick blankets. It's tall, drapey and fast.
7. Treble crochet (tr)
How: Yarn over twice, insert the hook, yarn over and pull up a loop (4 loops on hook). Then *yarn over and pull through 2 loops* three times.
Used for: lace, flower petals and decorative edges.
Stitch heights at a glance
| Stitch | Height | Turning chain |
|---|---|---|
| Single crochet | Short | 1 ch |
| Half double crochet | Medium | 2 ch |
| Double crochet | Tall | 3 ch |
| Treble crochet | Extra tall | 4 ch |
The turning chain lifts your hook to the height of the next row. Some patterns count it as a stitch and some don't — always check the notes.
Two bonus techniques you'll use constantly
- Increase (inc): work 2 stitches into the same stitch. This is how circles and 3D shapes grow.
- Decrease (dec): work 2 stitches together so they become 1. For amigurumi, the invisible decrease (insert into the front loops only of the next 2 stitches, then complete a single crochet) leaves almost no gap.
A 20-minute practice plan
- Chain 16 with a medium-weight (worsted), light-colored yarn — it's easier to see your stitches.
- Work 4 rows of single crochet, 4 rows of half double, 4 rows of double.
- Compare the textures and heights. Count your stitches at the end of every row; if the edges wander, you're probably adding or skipping the last stitch.
This little swatch teaches you more than an hour of videos. Keep it — it's a handy reference for future projects!
What to make next
Once these stitches feel comfortable, try a small project that uses them in the round: a coaster, a mini flower or a tiny amigurumi. Check out our free patterns for beginner-friendly practice, and grab a set of stitch markers — you'll need them as soon as you start working in rounds.
Happy stitching from the DanSan Crochet team! 🧶