If you’ve just picked up your first ball of yarn and a crochet hook, welcome! You’re about to start a creative adventure that’s relaxing, fun, and full of possibilities. Before we dive into adorable amigurumi or cozy scarves, let’s begin with the very first steps in crochet: making a slipknot and learning the chain stitch.
These two little techniques are the building blocks for almost every project you’ll ever make. Don’t worry they’re super easy, and I’ll guide you through every loop and pull! Follow the written instructions or the video tutorial below!
Slipknot
The slipknot is how you’ll attach your yarn to your hook. It’s adjustable, neat, and quick to do.
- Place the yarn on top of your index finger with the working yarn going to the back;
- Hold the end of the yarn and the working yarn with your thumb;
- Place the hook under the yarn from left to right;
- Turn the hook clockwise until it reaches the its usual position;
- Yarn over and pull the yarn through the loop on the hook.
Chain
The chain stitch, or ch, is the foundation for many crochet patterns. Think of it as laying the first row of bricks in your crochet masterpiece.
- Yarn over;
- Pull the yarn through the loop on the hook;
- Repeat from the beginning until you have the desired number of chains.
Remember that the slipknot doesn’t count as a stitch.
Watch the Video Tutorial
Try chaining 20 stitches just for fun. Undo them and do it again! That’s the beauty of crochet — if something doesn’t look quite right, just pull the yarn and start over.
Once you feel comfy with your chains, you’re ready to take on more stitches and even start simple projects. Before you know it, you’ll be creating magic with yarn!
Leave a comment below or send me a message, I’d love to help! And if you’re ready for more, check out my tutorials on the single crochet and magic ring next.