Crochet offers a wonderful variety of stitches, each adding its own charm and texture to projects. While there are countless stitches to explore, beginners should focus on mastering a few essential ones. Here are 6 stitches that every crocheter should know and a video guide for each of them.
Slipknot
The slip knot is the starting point for all crochet projects. It creates the initial loop that you'll use to begin crocheting. As a slipknot is the standard way of attaching your yarn to your hook, you will never see it written in a pattern.
Chain
Chains form the foundation of any crochet project, hence the first chains are referred to as the 'foundation chain'. A crochet piece's width is determined by the number of foundation chains.
Single Crochet (ch)
In UK terminilogy, this kind of stitch is called a double crochet (dc). This stitch is a basic, tight stitch that creates a dense fabric. It's a great stitch for beginners to master. It produces a tidy and even fabric with few holes and can be used for a variety of items, including amigurumi toys, accessories, and clothes.
Double Crochet (dc)
In UK terminilogy, this kind of stitch is called a treble crochet (tc). The double crochet stitch is taller than single crochet, and creates a looser, more open fabric. This type of stitch is more suitable for scarves and clothing because they result in a more breathable and free-flowing fabric.
Half Double Crochet (hdc)
In UK terminilogy, this kind of stitch is called a half treble crochet (htc). They are an intermediate stitch, taller than single crochet stitches but shorter than double crochet stitches. As a result, they give a stitch with the firm regularity of a double crochet stitch but are slightly more flexible, similar to treble crochet stitches. They're most typically used in clothing and accessories, and while they might be a little puzzling for novices, these beautiful little stitches have a distinct charm all their own.