How to Single Crochet
How to Single Crochet-Step by step
Are you ready to learn how to crochet a single crochet? If you are a beginner, then learning how to single crochet is a given. Let’s say it would be difficult to proceed with your crochet journey without mastering how to single crochet as it is one of the core foundations of crochet.
So, if you are ready, then this step-by-step tutorial will teach you how to make one of the basic crochet stitches, single crochet.
In this comprehensive guide, we will learn what single crochet is, the materials needed to single crochet, the symbol, and abbreviations of single crochet, how high a single crochet stitch is, a step-by-step tutorial of how to single crochet, insights into the resulting fabric, ideal projects for single crochet, different techniques of single crochet, troubleshooting tips, and frequently asked questions.
What is a Single Crochet?
A single crochet is a basic stitch in crochet, abbreviated as "sc". It's one of the fundamental stitches used to create fabric in crochet projects.
Materials
Gather what you need and let’s start learning.
Yarn
Choose a medium-weight yarn in the color of your choice. Worsted Weight is an excellent yarn for beginners as it is easy to work with. To easily see the stitch definition, choose a lighter color.
Hook
Crochet Hook - Select the appropriate hook suggested by the yarn. This will be found on the yarn label wrapping that has all the details about the yarn. Commonly used hooks for worsted yarn are G (4 mm) or H (5 mm).
Scissors
Get your favorite pair of scissors.
Needle
Any yarn needle will do.
Symbol/Abbreviations used for single crochet
In crochet, the single crochet stitch is often represented by the symbol ”X” or “+” and the abbreviation “sc” in US Standard Terms. Single crochet is called double crochet in the UK and abbreviated “dc”.
How High is a Single Crochet
The height of a single crochet stitch is approximately equal to the height of one chain and shorter than a half-double crochet. It creates a dense and sturdy fabric that suits various projects.
Step-by-step on how to Single Crochet - Beginner’s guide
Let’s break down the single crochet stitch into easy-to-follow steps.
Step 1: Make a slip knot
Create a slip knot and place it on your hook. Make sure it is snug but not too tight.
Step 2: Foundation Chain
Make a foundation chain by chaining the desired number of stitches.
For practice, 15 stitches would be an excellent number.
Step 3: Insert the hook into the chain
Insert the hook into the second chain from the hook.
Yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front).
Step 4: Pull up a loop
Pull up a loop through the chain (you now have 2 loops on the hook)
Step 5: Yarn over and pull through both loops
Yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook.
One single crochet stitch is complete
Step 6: Repeat
Repeat this process across the entire row, inserting the hook into the next chain.
When you reach the end, chain one and turn and start with the first stitch.
The Fabric Resulting from Single Crochet
Single crochet creates a dense and firm fabric with minimal gaps between stitches. This makes it suitable for projects that require durability and structure.
Ideal Projects for Single Crochet Stitch
Scarves
Single crochet creates a tight and warm fabric, making it perfect for cozy scarves. Experiment with different colors and yarns adding other stitch patterns to add variety.
Dishcloths and Washcloths
The tight fabric produced by single crochet stitches is excellent for durable dishcloths. Use cotton yarn for absorbency and easy cleaning.
Amigurumi
Create adorable stuffed animals and toys with a single crochet. The tight stitches give amigurumi projects a smooth and polished appearance.
Blankets and Afghans
Single crochet is ideal for creating solid and warm blankets. Combine it with other stitches to add texture and visual interest.
Bags and Totes
Craft sturdy and practical bags using a single crochet. Experiment with different yarn colors to achieve unique designs.
Expanding Single Crochet Repertoire: Techniques and Variations
Learning various techniques and stitch variations can elevate your projects to new heights. Let’s explore some essential single-crochet techniques, each offering unique textures and applications.
Single Crochet Back Loop Only (scblo)
Instead of inserting the hook under both loops of the stitch, insert it only in the back loop.
Yarn over and complete the single crochet as usual
Creates a ribbed effect and adds texture to your fabric.
Ideal for projects like ribbed cuffs on sleeves and collars, or creating interesting patterns in scarves, hats, and blankets.
Single Crochet Front Loop Only (scflo)
Insert the hook only in the front loop of the stitch
Yarn over and complete the single crochet stitch as usual.
Creates a different texture on the fabric compared to the back loop only.
Suitable for projects where you want a raised or ridged pattern, such as textured bags or hats.
Single Crochet Decrease (sc dec).
Insert the hook into the first stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop.
Insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop.
Yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook
Used to decrease the number of stitches in a row or round.
Essential for shaping projects like amigurumi or garments where reducing stitches is needed.
See below some of the patterns that use single crochet decrease stitch (single crochet two together)
Single Crochet Increase (sc inc)
Work two single crochet stitches into the same stitch
Increases the number of stitches in a row.
Useful in shaping projects or creating flared edges
Invisible Single Crochet Decrease (inv sc dec).
Insert the hook under the front loop of the first stitch.
Insert the hook under the front of the next stitch
Yarn over and pull up a loop.
Yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook
Creates a nearly invisible decrease, perfect for projects requiring a polished look.
Commonly used in amigurumi, hats, or projects with tight stitches.
Here are some hats that use single crochet decrease stitch;
Yarn Under Single Crochet (yusc)
Instead of yarn over, yarn under the hook before pulling through.
Difference from Yarn Over
Yarn under creates a twisted loop, resulting in a tighter stitch.
Yarn over is the standard method where the yarn wraps over the hook from back to front.
Yarn under is often used for projects where a tight gauge is desired.
Suitable for creating firm and dense fabrics, such as sturdy bags or coasters.
Yarn Over Single Crochet (yosg)
Yarn over the hook from the back to the front as usual before pulling through.
Yarn over is the standard method where the yarn wraps over the hook from back to front.
See this bookmark that was designed using a single crochet stitch.
Difference from Yarn Under
Yarn over creates a loose stitch compared to yarn under.
The standard method is used in most crochet projects.
Suitable for general crochet projects where a standard tension is desired.
Offer a more relaxed fabric compared to under.
By incorporating these diverse single crochet stitches into your repertoire, you will have the tools to create a range of different textures and patterns in crochet projects.
Troubleshooting
Uneven Tension
Issue: Uneven tension in stitches creates an inconsistent and messy appearance.
Troubleshoot Tip
Practice maintaining a consistent tension by focusing on the pressure applied to the yarn as you pull through each loop. A relaxed grip on both the yarn and the hook can help achieve smoother stitches.
Gaps Between Stitches
Issue: Gaps between stitches can create an undesirable look in the fabric.
Troubleshooting Tip
Ensure that you are inserting the hook under both loops of the stitch, especially when working in rows. Consistency in the stitch placement helps eliminate gaps and creates a more polished finish.
Twisted or Twirling Fabric
Issue: Fabric might twist or twirl unexpectedly.
Troubleshooting Tip:
Pay attention to the direction in which you insert the hook into the stitches.
Consistency in the hook placement helps prevent twisting.
If working in the round, make sure the first stitch of the round aligns properly.
Difficulty in Pulling Up a Loop
Issue: Some beginners may find it challenging to pull up a loop through the stitch.
Troubleshooting Tip
Ensure your yarn-over motion is fluid.
Practice the motion of yarn over and pull up a loop separately before incorporating it into the single crochet stitch.
This can help build muscle memory.
Stitches are Too Tight or Too Loose:
Issue: The stitches may vary in tension, leading to a fabric that is either too tight or too loose.
Troubleshooting Tip
Experiment with different hook seize to find the one that allows you to achieve the desired tension. If the stitches are consistently too tight, try a larger hook., if too loose, switch to a smaller hook.
Difficulty Counting Stitches
Issue: Keeping track of the stitches can be challenging, especially for beginners
Troubleshooting Tip
Use stitch markers to mark the first stitch of each row or round
This visual cue makes it easier to identify the beginning of a new segment and ensures the stitch count remains accurate
Yarn Splitting
Issue: Yarn splitting can occur causing frustration and affecting the overall appearance of the project.
Troubleshooting Tip
Be mindful of how you insert the hook into the stitches.
Aim for the center of the stitch, avoiding splitting the yarn fibers.
Choosing a smoother yarn texture can also help reduce the likelihood of splitting.
Curled Edges
Issue: Your project edges may curl inward or outward unexpectedly.
Troubleshooting Tip
If working in rows, consider adding a border of single crochet stitches to prevent curling.
This can stabilize the edges and provide a neater finish to the project.
Remember, practice is the key to overcoming these challenges.
Don’t be discouraged by initial hiccups. Making a mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve.
