There is really no mystery to crochet. Crocheting involves the use of different crochet stitches, worked together, to form a design.
A pattern is followed by either crocheting row upon row (in a back and forth fashion) or by starting a foundation chain, which is joined to form a circle, and later enlarged upon.
Similar to puzzle pieces, crochet stitches work in concert to produce a larger work. Knowing how to execute oft used crochet stitches is usually all that is needed to complete easy to intermediate patterns. Even complex designs can be worked using common crochet stitches.
Most crochet patterns call for basic crochet stitches. The listing below includes nine common crochet stitches that are frequently seen in patterns.
Common Crochet Stitches
- Chain--To learn to crochet, one starts with the chain stitch. This simple stitch starts with YO (yarn over the hook), which is pulled through the loop on the hook. The chain forms the foundation for most patterns and is also used as part of designs, to make lines or loops and to connect stitches one to another.
- Single Crochet--Single crochet is worked through the top of the stitches of the row underneath. Hook is inserted through stitches, YO, back through stitches, YO, pull through 2 loops on hook. The single crochet is a sturdy tight-looking stitch and is often used in patterns that call for a denser stitch.
- Half Double Crochet--YO, through stitches, YO, back through stitches, YO, pull yarn through all 3 loops on hook. The half double crochet may not be seen as often but it is still a basic crochet stitch, which serves to increase the height of stitches after the single crochet.
- Double Crochet--YO, through stitches, YO, back through stitches; YO, through 2 loops (twice). The double crochet is an all time favorite; it can be worked quickly and adds height to designs. It is often used when making afghans or for filet crochet.
- Treble Crochet--YO twice, through stitches, YO, back through stitches; YO, through 2 loops (three times). The treble is used when a taller stitch is called for.
- Double Treble--YO three times, through stitches, YO, back through stitches; YO, through 2 loops (four times). The double, treble is used to increase the height of the stitches.
- Triple Treble--YO hook 4 times, through stitches, YO, back through stitches; YO, through 2 loops (five times). When a longer stitch is needed in a crochet design, the triple, treble comes to the rescue.
- Slip Stitch--insert hook through chain or stitches, YO, pull back and through stitch and through loop on hook. This simple and common crochet stitch is often used to fasten off crocheted designs. It is also considered the "invisible" stitch, when a span between stitches has to be crossed without stitches being readily apparent. The slip stitch can be used on edges to give them a finished look.
- Picot--Ch 3, insert hook into first chain, YO, SS (pull through stitch and loop on hook). Adds eye-appeal to crocheted work.
Once common crochet stitches have been mastered, it is easy to transition to using patterns and turning out any number of crocheted pieces.
- How to Make a Crocheted Pansy--make pretty pansies to dress up household items.
- How to Crochet a Round Jute Basket--make a crocheted basket using three simple stitches.
- Filet Crochet--use two stitches to make lace-like designs.
Melody Rhodes - M. Rhodes is author of the Bedbug Books. She's been published in Canada, U.S. U.K. & NZ and has won awards for her poetry/prose.
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