How to Chain Stitch Crochet — A Gentle Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Welcome to the world of crochet, softly and slowly.
The chain stitch is the very first step in crochet — simple, rhythmic, and the beginning of so many handmade treasures.
🌿 What Is a Chain Stitch?
The chain stitch (abbreviated as ch) is the foundation of almost every crochet project. It’s a series of loops that form a "chain," like tiny petals connected in a row. From scarves and dishcloths to dreamy granny squares, it all begins here.
🧵 What You’ll Need
To begin, gather a few calming essentials:
- Yarn – Medium-weight (also called worsted), light-colored for visibility
- Hook – Crochet hook in size appropriate for yarn
- A quiet corner, a little patience, and soft light
Optional: Play your favorite lo-fi playlist or light a candle for extra calm ✨
✨ Step-by-Step: How to Chain Stitch
Let’s create your first foundation chain — loop by loop, with love.
1. Make a Slip Knot
Start by creating a slip knot about 6–8 inches from the yarn’s tail.
- Loop the yarn and pull a strand through the loop.
- Tighten gently onto the hook — not too tight, just enough to move freely.
2. Yarn Over (YO)
Hold your hook in your dominant hand and the yarn in the other.
- Move the hook under and over the working yarn from back to front.
- This movement is called a “yarn over” (YO).
3. Pull Through the Loop
Now gently draw the yarn through the loop already on your hook.
✨ You’ve made your first chain stitch!
Repeat yarn over + pull through to continue creating a chain of stitches.
Each stitch will look like a small “V.” The front part is the top loop, and the back ridge (used in some patterns) is the back bump.
🪡 Tips from Poceti
- Keep your tension light — the hook should glide through easily.
- Practice chaining about 20–30 stitches until your hands find their rhythm.
- Don’t worry about perfect spacing. Consistency comes with time.
- Rest your hands and eyes when needed. Crafting is care, not pressure.
📷 Watch the Poceti Video Tutorial
Watch our Chain Stitch video tutorial:
🌸 What Comes After the Chain?
Once you’ve mastered the chain stitch, you can move on to:
- Single crochet (sc)
- Half double crochet (hdc)
- Double crochet (dc)
Each one builds on your chain foundation — like petals unfolding one by one.
💗 Why We Love the Chain Stitch
At first glance, it may seem simple. But there’s something sacred in repetition — the chain stitch is the heartbeat of handmade. Whether you’re crafting a baby blanket, a table runner, or just a practice swatch, this quiet row of loops is your invitation to create something meaningful with your own two hands.
✨ Keep Exploring with Poceti
- How to Crochet Bouquet Blanket
🛒 Need Supplies or Want to Gift a Finished Piece? 🔹 Crochet Starter Kit (hooks, yarn, stitch markers & more): 🌼 Handmade Bouquet Blanket (snag a cozy heirloom piece!)
🧶 FAQ – Chain Stitch Crochet for Beginners
How many chain stitches do I need to start with?
Why does my chain stitch look uneven?
Can I redo a chain stitch if I make a mistake?
How tight should my chain stitches be?
Do I need to know other stitches before learning the chain stitch?
How long does it take to learn the chain stitch?
What can I make with just chain stitches?
💖 Join Our Handmade Journey
Learning a new crochet technique is a journey that requires patience and practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first flower doesn’t look perfect — mine certainly didn’t! The joy of creating something beautiful with your own hands makes it all worthwhile. 🌸
Share your finished learned with us on Instagram, or leave a comment below! I love seeing your creations and hearing your stories.
👉 Explore more cozy handmade treasures at poceti.com
Remember: The videos can be watched at different speeds. If you find them too fast, you can adjust to 0.5x speed for better understanding!
