Single Crochet Stitch Tutorial (SC): The Complete Beginner Guide
The Single Crochet (abbreviated SC in US terms) is the foundational cornerstone of crochet. Known for producing a dense, sturdy, gap-free textile, it is the primary stitch used for amigurumi plushies, structured tote bags, cozy dishcloths, and warm winter garments.
Anatomy of Single Crochet
In standard US terminology, a single crochet is a short, compact stitch. (Note: in UK/Australian patterns, this exact stitch is called a Double Crochet or dc). Each single crochet stitch has two top loops: the Front Loop (closest to you) and the Back Loop (farthest from you). Standard single crochet is worked under both loops simultaneously.
How to Single Crochet Step-by-Step
- Step 1 (Insert Hook): Insert your hook through the top two loops of the indicated stitch or chain.
- Step 2 (Yarn Over): Wrap your working yarn over the hook from back to front.
- Step 3 (Pull Up a Loop): Draw the yarn through the stitch. You now have 2 loops on your hook.
- Step 4 (Yarn Over Again): Wrap working yarn over your hook once more.
- Step 5 (Pull Through Both): Draw the yarn cleanly through both loops on your hook. One single crochet completed!
Turning Chains & Keeping Straight Edges
When working single crochet in flat rows, always make 1 Turning Chain (Ch 1) at the end of every row before turning your piece. In standard single crochet, this turning chain does not count as a stitch, so your first single crochet of the new row goes directly into the very first stitch at the base of the chain.
Common Mistakes
- Edges getting wider: You accidentally crocheted into the turning chain at the end of the row. Always count your stitches at the end of every row.
- Edges getting narrower: You skipped the final stitch of the row. Place a locking stitch marker in the first and last stitch of every row to never miss an edge.