How to Single Crochet – A Detailed Beginner’s Guide
If you’ve mastered the chain stitch, congratulations — you’re ready for your first real crochet stitch!
The single crochet (abbreviated as sc) is the foundation of most crochet patterns. It’s simple, compact, and incredibly versatile — perfect for cozy scarves, dishcloths, plushies, and so much more.
What Is a Single Crochet Stitch?
The single crochet stitch is one of the most basic and widely used stitches in the crochet world. It creates a dense, structured fabric that’s ideal for beginners because it’s easy to work with and builds evenly.
Once you’ve made a chain foundation row (we’ll start with that below), the single crochet is what brings your project to life, row by row.
Materials You’ll Need
- Worsted weight yarn (category 4)
- Size H-8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook
- Scissors
- Quiet space, cozy light, and maybe a cup of coffee
You'll also need to master the pre-crochet stitch technique: Chain Stitch
If you’re not sure how to do this, see our tutorial: How to Chain Stitch ➜
Step-by-Step: How to Single Crochet (sc)
Step 1: Start with a Chain
Step 2: Insert Hook into Second Chain from the Hook
Now, insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, going through the center of the "V" shape and under the back bump.
Step 3: Yarn Over & Pull Up a Loop
Bring your yarn over the hook from back to front and gently pull it through the stitch.
You should now have two loops on your hook.
Step 4: Yarn Over Again & Pull Through Both Loops
Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook.
Voilà — your first single crochet is complete! 🎉
Step 5: Repeat Across the Row
Insert your hook into the next chain, yarn over, pull up a loop (two loops on the hook), yarn over again, and pull through both loops.
Repeat this in each chain across, being sure not to miss the last chain!
🧵 You should now have 5 single crochet stitches in total.
➡️ Reminder: Don’t crochet into the slip knot at the beginning — that’s just your starting point.
Turning Your Work
Once you reach the end of the row:
- Chain one (this gives the height for the next row)
- Turn your work around
- Start the next row of single crochets by inserting the hook into the first stitch (not the chain)
Repeat for several rows until you get a little swatch. This is great practice for tension and consistency.
Beginner Tips
- Keep your tension relaxed — avoid pulling too tight.
- Don’t forget to count your stitches to keep rows even.
- If the edges look uneven, that’s okay! It gets better with practice.
- Try using light-colored yarn — it’s easier to see each stitch.
Learn by Watching
Prefer to follow along visually?
Watch the full single crochet tutorial in our video series:
What Can You Make With Single Crochet?
You’ll be amazed how much you can do with just this one stitch:
- Reusable dishcloths
- Baby blankets
- Crochet coasters
- Simple bags or pouches
- Plushies or amigurumi bases
It’s the stitch that opens the door to endless cozy creations.
Common Questions
Why do I need to skip the first chain?
What if I accidentally add or lose a stitch?
Should I insert the hook into one loop or two?
What Comes After the Single Crochet?
Once you’ve mastered the chain stitch, you can move on to:
- Half double crochet (hdc)
- Double crochet (dc)
Each one builds on your chain foundation — like petals unfolding one by one.
More From the Poceti Crochet
How to Chain Stitch – A Gentle Beginner’s Start
How to Crochet Bouquet Blanket
Final Thoughts from Poceti
At Poceti, we celebrate the slow and beautiful joy of making by hand. The single crochet stitch may be simple, but it’s full of possibility — and peace. As you practice, remember: it doesn’t need to be perfect. Just soft, steady, and yours.
