The single crochet stitch (US patterns) is a fundamental stitch pattern in crochet. One of the core stitches of the craft that requires any of your crochet hooks and yarn, it is used to create various patterns and designs. The fabric produced is dense and strong, so it is used in warm garments, accessories, home decor, and Amigurumi crochet. The stitch serves many purposes, from a simple dishcloth or scarf to a complex Amigurumi toy. Abbreviated as SC, the single crochet stitch in US patterns is known as the double crochet stitch in UK patterns.
Let's begin by discussing how to do a basic single crochet stitch, which is a must for everyone just starting to crochet, before moving on to the variations.
How to Work a Basic Single Crochet Stitch?
Step 1: Make a slip knot and work on a chain the length you want. The chain will be your foundation row.
Step 2: Without counting the loop that is now on the hook, insert your crochet hook into the second chain from the hook.
Step 3: Work on a yarn over; wrap the yarn around the hook going from back to front.
Step 4:Draw the yarn through, leaving two loops on your hook.
Step 5: Yarn over the crochet hook once more.
Step 6:Pull the yarn through both loops on the hook.
Your first single stitch has been completed!
Step 7: Repeat this step with every chain. Once you reach the end, chain one to turn the chain and turn your work to start the next row.
Now, single crochet stitches are also used in making garments that require fit, so knowledge of increases and decreases is essential. Let's explore how to alter this basic stitch to get other textures and effects.
Variations of Single Crochet:
A single crochet stitch is a fundamental stitch of the craft. But, did you know that it has beautiful variations that enhance its appearance and lend flexibility? Let’s take a look at the variation of single crochet stitches that you can use in your projects.
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Extended Single Crochet
A simple modification of the basic single crochet stitch produces a taller and looser fabric, ideal for more flexible objects like shawls and scarves.
Here's how you do it: insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Instead of completing the stitch, yarn over and pull through just one more loop to add an extra chain! This will be the extended step. Lastly, yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook to complete the stitch.
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Single Crochet Back Loop Only (SC BLO)
In this technique, you only crochet into the SC stitches back loop. To do this, insert the hook under the back loop of the stitch rather than the two loops as you would typically do. After that, continue the stitch normally by yarning over, pulling through the loop, and yarn over again and completing it. This method increases the stretch of your fabric by giving it a ribbed texture. It adds a beautiful texture and is excellent for crafting cuffs, sweater ribs, and hat brims. Refer to our guide and learn how to crochet in front and back loops.
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Single Crochet Front Loop Only (SC FLO)
All you have to do is crochet into the front loop of every stitch, which is quite similar to the above technique. To perform this, place the hook under the front loop of the stitch only, rather than under both loops and continue the stitch as you would with standard single crochet. It will also produce a ribbed texture reminiscent of the back loop version but with a different visual effect. This stitch is excellent for increasing texture and design, adding striped textures to bags, or creating ridges in amigurumi figures.
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Reverse Single Crochet (Crab Stitch)
The reverse single crochet stitch, also known as crab stitch (because of its "backward" nature), is essentially SC but worked in reverse. Refer to our Crab Stitch Tutorial to know more. Working the stitch can feel awkward initially, but if you know basic crochet stitches, it should be easy to get the hang of it. Regular single crochet stitches are short, even stitches that produce a dense fabric of neat, even rows with a unique twisted design. Because of its unique nature, it is most commonly used as edging or occasionally for a specific design detail rather than to create the entire bulk of a crochet project.
Tools for Various Single Crochet Stitches:
Although any crochet hook can be used to do a variety of stitches, the hook you choose can affect how comfortable and easy crocheting is for you.
Single-ended hooks:They are the most common type of hooks used in crochet and are an excellent option for both beginners and pro crocheters, as they work efficiently with all kinds of single crochet stitches.
Tunisian Crochet Hooks:These can be modified for single crochet tasks, although they are mainly used for Tunisian crochet techniques, which combine knitting and crocheting. They are generally longer than the traditional single-ended crochet hooks. They either have hooks on both ends or come with an option of attaching an interchangeable cable.
Some Golden Tips:
*Frequent practice is necessary; try working on simpler tasks before moving to more complicated ones.
*Maintain uniform crochet tension since it impacts both the overall appearance of your project and the quality of the stitches.
*To get sleek results and a smoother crocheting experience, always use high-quality yarns and hooks.
With this guide, master single crochet stitch and its variations. Remember that every stitch you do will make you better at what you do. The key to smooth crocheting is quality crochet hooks. Explore KnitPro for all your craft needs. Explore single-ended, double-ended, and interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks. If you prefer bamboo, we have hooks carved from Japanese bamboo. For wood lovers, we have vibrantly colored Symfonie and Dreamz, along with warm Ginger carved from smooth birchwood. Our metals, Zing, come in striking shades while Waves have ergonomic rubber handles.
