Basic Crochet Stitches

Crochet offers a wide variety of stitches that you can use to create different textures and patterns. The basic crochet stitches can be worked with any of the single-ended crochet hooks. The choice of the crochet hooks in the case of material is up to the crocheter. While some prefer bamboo or wood, many are comfortable with metals or other materials. Though the basic idea of every hook is that it must be comfortable to work with. Interchangeable Tunisian hooks, though are specialty tools for Tunisian craft they also work for regular crocheting when you don't attach the cord. You can work with one for the basics. Make sure to work with the right size that matches the yarn weight. Before you learn the basic crochet stitches, learn how to hold the crochet hook properly first.

Start with a slip knot with the yarn on the hook. Here are some basic crochet stitches to get you started:

• Chain Stitch (CH)

The chain stitch creates a series of interconnected loops that lays the foundation of the project or stitch pattern. This can be used to start a project (very much like cast on in knitting) or add height for a particular stitch and create open spaces.

To make a chain stitch:

• Make a slipknot and insert your crochet hook into the loop.
• Yarn over. This is referred to as the step where you wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front.
• Pull the yarn through the loop on your hook, creating a new loop.

Repeat these steps to create more chain stitches.

• Single Crochet (SC)

Single crochet is a simple stitch that creates a dense and tightly woven fabric. It has the least height in comparison to the other basic crochet stitches. It is also the easiest done.

To make a single crochet:

• Insert your hook into the 2nd chain or the stitch mentioned in the pattern.
• Yarn over and pull the yarn through the stitch, so you have two loops on your hook.
• Yarn over again. Now pull yarn through both loops on your hook.

One single crochet stitch is complete. Repeat these steps for each stitch. For the next row, make 1 chain.

• Half Double Crochet (HDC)

The half-double crochet stitch is the next basic crochet stitch. Slightly taller than the single crochet it creates a dense fabric but is slightly open than a double crochet stitch. This stitch works best when you do not want a tight weave like SC or an open fabric like DC.

To make a half double crochet:

• Yarn over. Insert your crochet hook into the third chain or the stitch specified.
• Yarn over and pull the yarn through the stitch, so you have three loops on your hook.
• Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook.

One half-double crochet stitch is complete. Repeat for each stitch. For the next row or the round, make 2 chains.

• Double Crochet (DC)

The double crochet stitch is taller and creates an open and lacy fabric. The stitch is used for many textured stitch patterns. This is used for open weave effect in crochet projects and is often paired with other stitches.

To make a double crochet:

• Work a yarn over. Insert your crochet hook into the fourth chain or the stitch mentioned in the pattern.
• Yarn over and pull the yarn through the stitch, so you have three loops on your hook.
• Yarn over again and pull through the first two loops on your hook, leaving two loops remaining.
• Yarn over once more and pull through the last two loops on your hook.

One double crochet stitch is complete. Repeat a few more for practice. To get to the next row or round, make 3 chains.

• Treble Crochet Stitch (TR)

The treble crochet stitch is the last of the six basic crochet stitches. It is the tallest of the basics and is used for lace stitch patterns and looser fabric with a drape. This works like basic stitches but has additional yarn-overs to make double-treble and triple-treble stitches.

How to Make a Treble Crochet:

• Yarn over twice. Insert the crochet hook into the gift chain or the stitch mentioned.
• Yarn over and pull up a loop on the hook.
• Yarn over and pull yarn through the first two loops on the hook.
• Yarn over again and pull yarn through the next two loops on the hook.

Treble crochet creates a looser fabric that drapes well. It’s often used in light, lacy, open patterns. For the turning row or round, add additional 4 chains.

Similar to treble crochet stitch you can work on taller stitches.

Slip Stitch

Though not a basic crochet stitch, it is one of the basic crochet techniques. You work with a crochet hook to not create a fabric but to join stitches or to move the yarn from one point to the other. Abbreviated as SL ST or SS is a useful technique that can be used in so many different ways.

Insert the crochet hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull through the stitch and the active loop on the hook.

These crochet stitches opens up a world of possibilities for creating unique crochet projects. Enjoy a smooth crocheting experience with premium crochet hooks from Lantern Moon Collection. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, each tool is made from ebony wood that has a liquid-silk finish. From beginner, to intermediate to advanced crocheters, the crochet hooks work with all kinds of yarn fibers.