Tutorial: how to make a Single Crochet?

Are you new to crochet and hearing about the single crochet? Don’t panic, it’s a basic crochet stitch for beginners that you’ll soon master. The single crochet stitch (abbreviated sc in the patterns) is one of the first stitches you need to learn if you want to learn crochet.

It’s a simple but essential stitch, which serves as the foundation of many a project. You’ll find it everywhere: whether you’re making amigurumi (those little crocheted stuffed toys from Japan), accessories or any project requiring a tight, even basic crochet stitch, the single crochet is THE technique to know.

In this tutorial, I’ll show you step-by-step how to crochet a single crochet. Follow the steps below: grab your yarn and hook, and let’s get to work together to master the tight stitch technique!

Single Crochet Tutorial, Step by Step

Before you start, make sure you know how to make a Chain or a Magic Circle to get you started. If you haven’t already done so, practice making a magic circle or chain, as this is where we’ll be crocheting our single crochet.

Step 1: Insert the hook into the stitch of the previous row

The single crochet stitch is made by crocheting into a stitch from the previous row (in this case, into a stitch from the magic circle you’ve just made). To begin the first single crochet, insert your hook into the 1ᵉ stitch of the magic circle. Stitch the hook through the stitch, passing under the two strands forming the small “V” of the stitch. (By inserting under two strands, you ensure a strong stitch and a cleaner edge to your work).

Start of the row

Insert the hook under the stitch of the previous row

Step 2: Yarn over and bring back a loop

Now that your hook is planted in the stitch, you need to catch the yarn to create a new loop.
Yarn over: this means passing the yarn over your hook (from back to front). Then, using the hook, pull the yarn back through the stitch where you inserted it. Gently pull the yarn through the base stitch. You’ve just created a new loop through the stitch from the previous row. At this point, you should have two loops on your hook: the initial loop (from your magic circle) and the loop you’ve just brought back.

Yarn over

and pass through the first loop on the hook

Step 3: Completes the Single Crochet stitch

To finish off the single crochet, all that’s left to do is flow these two loops into one. Cast off the yarn over the hook again. Then pull the yarn through the two loops on the hook.
Once the yarn is through, you’ll have just one loop left on the hook – just as you started with.

Yarn over

and pass through the two loops on the hook

Step 4: Complete the row

The single crochet you’ve just made is finished. To continue the row, simply repeat the same process in each subsequent stitch. So, insert the hook into the next stitch (right next to the previously worked stitch), always passing under both strands. Then repeat: cast off, bring a loop back through the stitch (you’ve got two loops on the hook again), cast off again, pass through both loops. You’ve made another single crochet. Continue like this, stitch after stitch, to the end of your row.

Tips for a regular, tight single crochet

How can I get even tension when I'm making single crochet?

Try to maintain a constant yarn tension throughout your project. If you crochet too loosely, you risk getting irregular stitches and holes. If you overtighten, your hook will have trouble getting through the stitches. Relax, breathe and find a fluid rhythm: with practice, your tension will naturally become more regular.

What's the right position for holding hook and yarn?

Adopt a comfortable position! Your hand holding the yarn should be able to slide it easily for throws, and your other hand should guide the hook well. Every crocheter has his or her own method, but a stable, natural hold will help you control your stitches better, especially when you’re just starting out.

Why is stitch counting important?

Counting your stitches during each row is a great reflex to adopt right from the start. It allows you to check that you haven’t forgotten or added a stitch. For tight stitches, count the small “V” visible at the top of your row: each V = 1 tight stitch. That’s the secret to straight, even work!

Where should I insert the hook to make a single crochet?

It’s essential to always insert the hook in the right stitch. Remember to insert your hook under the two “V” strands of the previous row’s stitch. Otherwise, your work could become distorted or have small holes.

What if my yarn splits while I'm crocheting?

This happens especially with yarns that split easily. When you cast off and pull the yarn through the stitch, make sure you catch the whole yarn, not just part of it. Go slowly and keep a good angle with your hook to avoid this problem. This is the key to clean, strong stitches.

What does a single crochet look like?

Seen from above, a tight stitch forms a small “V”. This V is made up of two strands: it’s under these two strands that you’ll need to insert your hook for the next row. Once you’ve got these little Vs lined up, you can easily count your stitches or find out where to crochet.

How do I know exactly where to insert my hook?

The place to insert the hook is just below the V formed by the stitch. You’ll see a little “hole” under each V: that’s where you insert the hook. If you’re not sure, touch the stitch with your fingers and move it slightly, so you’ll see better where to insert the hook.

How do you tell the difference between a single crochet and a double crochet or other stitch?

Single crochet is one of the shortest, most compact stitches. It gives a tight finish, perfect for amigurumis or dense work. Conversely, a double crochet or half-double crochet is taller and more openwork. Learning to recognize a single crochet will help you follow a pattern better.

Congratulations, you now know how to crochet a single crochet like a pro! This basic crochet stitch holds no secrets for you. The single crochet will come in handy for a whole host of projects, especially compact works and crochet amigurumis requiring a firm stitch. Don’t hesitate to keep practicing to gain in ease and consistency. The more you practice, the more even your tension will be, and the prettier your single crochets will be.

To go further and put into practice what you’ve just learned, I invite you to discover our collection of crochet patterns on Yarn & Crochet. You’ll find a wide range of patterns using single crochet. It’s the perfect opportunity to create your first crochet project for beginners using the tight stitch you’ve now mastered!