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Learning to crochet is fun and challenging!
Get started and relax with some needle work! In a previous blog you could read and see how to crochet a slip knot and a chain. In this blog we will introduce you to two basic techniques: the double crochet (dc) and the slip stitch (sl.st). Read the blog text and study the images and videos, before starting to practice these stitches yourself.
In this blog we will be working with:
RibbonXL is a soft, chunky recycled yarn and is available in a wide array of trendy colours. This recycled cotton yarn does not pill or itch and you achieve quick results working it. For beginners, we recommend a bright colour to practise with. This way you can see the stitches nice and clear. We choose a bamboo crochet hook because they are ergonomically shaped, lightweight and work smoothly with this super chunky thread. Of course, you can also practice with a yarn and crochet hook of your own choice!
How to crochet the slip stitch (sl.st)?
The slip stitch is used for crocheting a very dense structure, but is unlikely to be used to create complete crochet fabric. This stitch is widely used for the finishing edge of crochet work or to complete a row at the end of a round.
The slip stitch is crocheted in 2 steps:
- Insert your hook through the loop (counted from crochet hook into second stitch).
- Yarn over, wrap the yarn around the crochet hook. Then pull the yarn directly through the two loops on the hook
Want to see how this stitch is worked in real life? Watch the instructional crochet video about the slip stitch on our YouTube channel and practise with us!
How to crochet the double crochet (dc)?
This is probably the most commonly used crochet stitch. Once you have mastered this stitch, you will be able to crochet a large number of starter projects on your own.
Side note: This stitch is called double crochet (dc) in UK English speaking nations, but confusingly it is called single crochet (sc) in US English speaking nations. So we recommend to checking this in the pattern before starting to crochet! Hoooked, being based in Europe, writes crochet techniques in UK English!
Below, we explain how to start working double crochet (single crochet in US) after the first foundation chain. Would you like to read more about how to crochet a slipknot and how to chain? Then take a look at our blog on this subject.
- At the end of your foundation chain, crochet the first row of double crochet. To do this, insert the hook through the second loop (counted from the hook).
- Yarn over and pull the yarn with your hook through the loop. You now have two loops on your hook.
- When you have two loops on your needle, yarn over and pull it in one go through two loops on the hook.
- You have now worked your first double crochet! Now make a new dc in the next stitch of the chain.
Watch our crochet tutorial video about the double crochet (dc) on our YouTube channel. We recommend that you first read the blog text and watch the video, and then start practicing!
How to count double crochet stitches?
Similar to counting stitches in the foundation chain, you can count the dc stitches at the top of the crochet work. You will see the same V-shapes. Each ‘v’ is one stitch. The number of stitches is counted from the hook (the loop on the hook does not count). Be sure to count the first stitch as well, this can take on a vertical position. This is especially the case with beginners, as they generally crochet more tightly.
It is recommended to count the number of stitches at the end of your row. This way you can make sure that you have the correct number of stitches in your crochet work. Here is a picture of our tension swatch with RibbonXL Bubble Gum. Each row has 10 stitches. Can you spot them?
How and where to crochet a turning chain?
At the end of each row, it is time to start the next. To ensure that you reach the correct height for the next row of dc stitches, you crochet a turning chain. Then turn the work over and start the next row. A turning chain ensures that your work remains even on both sides. It is important to keep the hook in the work when turning.
Are you inspired by this crochet blog and do you want to know more about crochet? Check out our YouTube channel for tutorial videos. On our website you'll find lots of great DIY kits and patterns for beginners! Looking for free inspiration? Please check our page with free patterns for all kinds of projects! Do you want to know more about Hoooked and our yarns? Then be sure to check out one of our other blogs.