How to Single Crochet (sc) for Beginners: A Complete Guide

Whether you’re new to crochet or looking to revisit the basics, the single crochet stitch (sc) is a fundamental technique you need to master. This stitch is the simplest of all crochet stitches, yet it’s incredibly versatile and forms the foundation for many projects. By learning how to single crochet, you’ll be able to create everything from sturdy bags and dishcloths to intricate amigurumi and cozy scarves.

Single Crochet (sc)

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including step-by-step instructions, how to use single crochet in different contexts, and tips for troubleshooting. By the end, you’ll feel confident incorporating this stitch into your projects.

Table of Contents

Single Crochet Stitch Basics

The single crochet stitch (abbreviated as sc) is one of the most beginner-friendly stitches in crochet. It’s simple to learn and creates a tight, dense fabric with minimal gaps, making it ideal for projects that require durability and structure.

You’ll often use single crochet for amigurumi (crocheted toys), dishcloths, baskets, and bags. Its compact structure makes it perfect for items that need to hold their shape or withstand frequent use.

What You Need to Get Started:

Yarn: A medium-weight yarn (Category #4) like worsted-weight cotton or acrylic is great for practice.
Hook: Check the yarn label for the recommended hook size. Beginners can start with a 5mm (H/8) hook, which works well with most worsted-weight yarns.
Extras: Have scissors and a yarn needle handy for finishing your work.

How to Single Crochet, Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to learn the single crochet stitch:

Create a Foundation Chain: Start by making a slip knot on your hook. Chain a row of stitches (ch) to create your foundation. For practice, chain 10 stitches.
Insert Your Hook: Skip the first chain from your hook (this helps maintain even edges). Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook.
Yarn Over (yo): Wrap the yarn over your hook from back to front. Pull the yarn through the chain. You should now have 2 loops on your hook.
Complete the Stitch: Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook. Congratulations! You’ve completed one single crochet stitch.
Repeat: Continue working one single crochet stitch into each chain across the row. When you reach the end, chain one (this is your turning chain) and turn your work to start the next row.

Pro Tip: Keep your tension consistent. Too tight, and your stitches will be hard to work into; too loose, and your project may look uneven.

Working Single Crochet in Rounds

Single crochet isn’t limited to working in rows; you can also use it to crochet in rounds, which is essential for creating hats, baskets, and amigurumi.

Two Methods for Working in Rounds:

Joined Rounds: At the end of each round, join the last stitch to the first stitch using a slip stitch. This method creates a clear seam, which can be useful for certain projects like hats or bags.
Continuous Spirals: Instead of joining at the end of each round, continue crocheting in a spiral. Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of each round so you don’t lose track. This method is commonly used in amigurumi for a seamless look.

When working in rounds, always start with a magic ring or chain 2 and work your stitches into the first chain. This creates a tight, professional-looking center.

How to Increase in Single Crochet

Increasing in single crochet allows you to expand the size of your work, whether you’re making a flat circle, shaping a garment, or creating 3D objects like toys. Here’s how:

Work Two Stitches into One: Insert your hook into the designated stitch, yarn over, and pull through. Complete the single crochet as usual. Then, work another single crochet into the same stitch. This is called an increase.
Spacing Increases: To create a smooth shape, space your increases evenly. For example, when crocheting a flat circle, follow the formula of increasing by 6 stitches per round.

Use stitch markers to mark your increases and ensure symmetry.

How to Decrease in Single Crochet

Decreasing in single crochet, often abbreviated as “sc2tog” (single crochet two together), is essential for shaping your crochet projects. It’s especially useful in amigurumi, garments, and creating edges.

How to Decrease:

Insert your hook into the first stitch, yarn over, and pull through. You’ll have 2 loops on your hook.
Insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull through. You’ll now have 3 loops on your hook.
Yarn over again and pull through all 3 loops. You’ve completed a decrease.

Pro Tip: To make your decreases less noticeable, use the invisible decrease method, which works only in the front loops of the stitches.

Variations on the Single Crochet Stitch

Once you’re comfortable with the basic single crochet stitch, you can explore these variations to add texture and interest to your projects:

Back Loop Only (BLO): Work into the back loop of each stitch instead of both loops. This creates a ribbed effect, great for garments and blankets.
Front Loop Only (FLO): Work into the front loop only to create a flatter, thinner fabric.
Extended Single Crochet (esc): Add height to your stitch by chaining one before completing the stitch.
Spike Stitch: Insert your hook into a row below the current one for a decorative look.

Experimenting with variations allows you to customize your projects and achieve different textures.

Tips for Single Crochet Success

Mind Your Tension: Tension is key to achieving a neat and even fabric. Practice maintaining consistent tension as you work.
Count Your Stitches: Keep track of your stitch count at the end of each row to ensure you’re not accidentally adding or missing stitches.
Use Stitch Markers: Especially helpful for beginners and when working in rounds, stitch markers help you track where each round begins.
Practice: The more you practice, the more natural the movements will feel. Start with small projects to build confidence.

Fun Projects That Use Single Crochet

Once you’ve mastered the single crochet stitch, try your hand at these beginner-friendly projects:

Dishcloths: Create durable, absorbent cloths for your kitchen. These are great for practicing tension and stitch consistency.
Amigurumi Toys: Single crochet is the foundation of most amigurumi patterns. Start with simple shapes like a ball or cube.
Scarves: Work rows of single crochet to create a cozy, beginner-friendly scarf.
Coasters: Quick and easy projects to practice working in rounds.