Single Crochet (sc)

Crocheting is an enjoyable and relaxing hobby that allows you to create everything from blankets and scarves to toys and home décor. If you’re new to crochet, one of the first stitches you’ll need to learn is the single crochet (sc) stitch. It’s simple, versatile, and forms the foundation for many crochet projects.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making a single crochet stitch so you can start adding it to your projects right away!

Materials You’ll Need:

• Yarn: Choose your favorite yarn (medium-weight yarn is great for beginners).
• Crochet Hook: Select a hook that matches the size recommended on your yarn label. For example, a 5mm (H-8) hook is often used with medium-weight yarn.
• Scissors: To trim your yarn once you’re done.
• Yarn Needle (optional): For weaving in ends later.

Step 1: Make a Slip Knot

Before you can start crocheting, you’ll need to create a slip knot and place it on your hook.

1. Take the yarn and create a loop.
2. Pull the tail end of the yarn through the loop, making a knot that is adjustable.
3. Tighten the loop around your hook, ensuring it moves easily.

Step 2: Chain Stitch

To start your foundation row, you’ll need to create a chain.

1. Hold the yarn in your left hand (if you’re right-handed) and the hook in your right hand.
2. Yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front).
3. Pull the yarn through the loop on your hook.
4. Repeat this process to make a chain of the desired length for your project.

Step 3: Insert Your Hook

Now, you’re ready to begin your first single crochet!

1. Turn your work to the back (so that the chain is facing you).
2. Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook (the first chain won’t be used for this stitch).

Step 4: Yarn Over and Pull Through

1. Yarn over again (wrap the yarn around your hook).
2. Pull the yarn through the chain you inserted your hook into. You should now have two loops on your hook.

Step 5: Complete the Single Crochet

1. Yarn over once more, and pull the yarn through both loops on your hook. This completes your single crochet stitch.
2. You’ve just made your first single crochet!

Step 6: Repeat the Process

To continue the row, simply repeat Step 3 through Step 5 until you reach the end of the row.

Step 7: Turn Your Work and Start a New Row

Once you’ve finished a row of single crochet stitches, turn your work around so the other side is facing you. For the next row, you’ll need to chain 1 (this helps to keep your stitches at the same height) and then repeat the single crochet stitches across the new row.

Tips for Success:

• Tension: Keep your tension consistent. Not too tight, and not too loose.
• Stitch Placement: Be sure you’re inserting your hook into the correct stitch—typically the top two loops of the stitch below.
• Counting: Count your stitches to ensure your work stays even.