Learning the Single Crochet (SC) stitch is one of the most important first steps in crochet. This simple stitch creates a firm, even fabric that forms the foundation for countless projects, from blankets and scarves to toys and home décor. Although your first few rows may feel slow, every stitch helps build confidence and improves your technique.
Single Crochet (SC)
By practicing consistent tension and counting your stitches regularly, you’ll quickly notice your rows becoming straighter and more even. Once you’ve mastered single crochet, you’ll have a strong foundation that makes learning many other crochet stitches much easier.
Materials & Tools
- Weight 4 acrylic yarn
- 4.5 mm crochet hook
- Scissors
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
Abbreviations
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- st = stitch
- sts = stitches
Difficulty
Beginner
Finished Size
The finished size depends on the number of chains and rows you make.
This tutorial creates a 10-stitch wide practice panel.
Beginner Technique Notes
- If this is your very first crochet stitch, don’t worry if your rows aren’t perfectly straight at first. Every crocheter starts by practicing simple swatches like this one. Focus on making each stitch the same size instead of crocheting quickly.
- Keep your working yarn relaxed so the hook moves smoothly through each stitch. Tight stitches make crocheting more difficult, while loose, even tension creates a neater fabric.
- One of the most common beginner mistakes is missing the last stitch of the row. It often looks smaller than the others, so take a moment to identify it before turning your work.
- Counting your stitches after every row is another great habit. It helps you catch mistakes immediately instead of several rows later.
- Using a stitch marker can also make it much easier to find the first stitch of every row while you’re learning.
Single Crchet Pattern
Foundation Chain
- Make a slip knot and place it on your crochet hook.
- Chain 11 to create a 10-stitch row.
- Do not count the active loop on your hook as a chain.
Row 1
- Skip the first chain from the hook.
- Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook.
- Work into the back loop of the chain.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- You should now have 2 loops on your hook.
- Yarn over again and pull through both loops.
- Your first single crochet is complete.
- Repeat the same steps across the remaining chains.
- At the end of Row 1, you should have 10 single crochet stitches.
- Never read a crochet pattern before? No problem! The video tutorial below is perfect for beginners, or give the written pattern below a try!
Row 2
- Chain 1 at the end of the row.
- Turn your work.
- Do not work into the chain 1.
- Insert your hook under both loops of the first stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- You should now have 2 loops on your hook.
- Yarn over again and pull through both loops.
- Repeat across the entire row.
- Count your stitches at the end of the row.
- You should still have 10 single crochet stitches.
Continue the Panel
- Chain 1 at the end of each row.
- Turn your work.
- Work 1 single crochet into each stitch across.
- Keep counting your stitches after each row.
- Repeat until your panel reaches the size you want.
Finishing
- Make one final chain 1.
- Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail.
- Pull the yarn tail fully through the loop on your hook.
- Pull tight to secure the final stitch.
- Weave in the yarn ends with a yarn needle.
Helpful Tips
- Keep your tension relaxed so your hook can move easily through the stitches.
- Do not pull the yarn too tightly after every stitch.
- Count your stitches often to avoid adding or losing stitches.
- Look carefully for the last stitch in each row because it can sometimes be tight.
- Practice regularly because beginner crochet rows may look uneven at first.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is single crochet the best stitch for beginners?
Yes. Single crochet is one of the easiest and most important stitches to learn because it teaches proper stitch placement, tension, and row counting.
2. Why are my rows getting smaller?
This usually happens when the first or last stitch of a row is accidentally skipped. Counting your stitches after every row helps prevent this.
3. Why does my crochet look uneven?
Uneven stitches are completely normal when you’re learning. As you practice, your tension will naturally become more consistent.
4. Should I use a stitch marker?
Yes. A stitch marker makes it much easier to identify the first stitch of each row and helps beginners avoid common counting mistakes.
5. What projects can I make after learning single crochet?
Once you’re comfortable with single crochet, you’ll be ready to make dishcloths, scarves, blankets, amigurumi, baskets, pillows, and many other beginner-friendly crochet projects.
