How to Single Crochet (sc): Step-by-Step
Learn how to single crochet with clear guidance on hook insertion, yarn overs, turning rows, stitch counting, and keeping beginner edges straight.
Follow the written lesson for each stitch. US crochet terms are used unless stated otherwise.
To make a US single crochet (sc), insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over again, then pull through both loops on the hook. Unless the pattern says otherwise, work under both top loops of the stitch and check your stitch count at the end of each row.
Watch how to single crochet : step-by-step
Prefer to learn by watching? Open the full lesson, then use this page for quick reference, tips, common mistakes, and FAQs.
Practice page: single crochet
Keep each complete first instruction alongside the accompanying reference illustration.
- Use this as a quick check before the full lesson.
- Keep it nearby while you practice the stitch or technique.
Finished single crochet swatch
Key facts
Details that prevent common beginner mistakes
Where to insert the hook
In a standard row of single crochet, insert the hook under both top loops of the next stitch—the V visible along the top edge. A pattern may deliberately tell you to use the front loop, back loop, or another part of the stitch, so treat those as specific variations rather than the default.
How to count single crochet stitches
Count the V shapes across the top edge of the row. Each completed single crochet contributes one top V. The turning chain may or may not count as a stitch depending on the pattern, so follow the pattern note instead of assuming.
How to keep the sides straight
The most common reason a practice swatch narrows is a missed first or last stitch. Mark both edge stitches while learning, count the row before turning, and keep the working loop relaxed enough that the hook can move without forcing it.
One stitch into one stitch
For US sc, insert under both loops of the next top V unless the pattern specifies a front- or back-loop-only variation. Draw up a loop (two on hook), yarn over and pull through both; a normal sc consumes one base stitch and produces one new sc.
Materials for practice
- Crochet hook
- Smooth practice yarn
Make it easier
- Place a stitch marker in the first and last stitch while learning.
- Count the V shapes across the top edge rather than the vertical posts on the front.
- If the fabric feels stiff, try a larger hook or relax your yarn hand.
- Try a 10-stitch practice swatch: chain 11, work 10 sc into the chain starting in the second chain from the hook, then ch 1 and turn. Keep 10 sc in each following row.
What usually goes wrong
- Skipping the first or last stitch of a row
- Working into only one loop when the pattern expects both loops
- Pulling the second yarn over too tightly
Questions about how to single crochet: step-by-step
How many turning chains do I use for single crochet?+
Many patterns use one turning chain. Whether that chain counts as a stitch depends on the pattern, so follow the stated convention.
Why are my single crochet rows getting narrower?+
The most common cause is accidentally skipping the first or last stitch. Marking both edge stitches makes the loss easy to spot.
Do I crochet through both loops for single crochet?+
Usually yes. Standard single crochet is commonly worked under both top loops unless the pattern specifies front loop only, back loop only, or another insertion point.
What is single crochet called in UK terminology?+
US single crochet corresponds to UK double crochet. Confirm the terminology system before starting a pattern because the same abbreviation can mean a different stitch in US and UK instructions.
How do you make one single crochet stitch?+
Insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over again, then pull through both loops on the hook.
Is single crochet a good first stitch for beginners?+
Yes. It uses a short repeat and creates a dense fabric, so it is useful for learning hook insertion, yarn overs, edge control, and stitch counting.
How do I practice single crochet without losing stitches?+
Chain 11 and work 10 single crochets into the foundation, starting with the second chain from the hook. At each row end, ch 1 and turn; work one sc into each of the 10 stitches, mark the first and last true stitches, and count 10 again.
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