Basic Stitch US Terms
Crochet A Slip Knot
A slip knot is a versatile and simple way to start any crochet project, as you can easily tighten or loosen the loop, helping to make ample room for any necessary stitches. The slip knot works well for the start of a foundation chain or when working in the round.
Crochet A Chain Stitch
The Chain Stitch (abbreviated ch) is the basis for all crochet projects. Patterns which are worked in the row will begin with a series of chain stitches, commonly referred to as the "Foundation Chain". These nifty stitches are also used to bring your yarn to the necessary height, in order to work the first stitch of the next row or round of your project.
Crochet A Slip Stitch
The Slip Stitch (abbreviated sl st) is the shortest of all crochet stitches and is a necessity in any avid crocheter’s repertoire. The slip stitch is mainly used for joining stitches that are worked in the round (such as granny squares and beanies), or used to move your working yarn to another part of a row, as it is really more of a utility stitch or technique.
Crochet A Single Crochet
The Single Crochet (abbreviated sc) in the most basic crochet stitch for making any project - all other stitches are variations on this one. This little crochet stitch creates a tight, dense fabric, perfect for snuggly afghans and cosy scarves. You can use this stitch over and over again, alone or in combination with many other stitches to create dozens of beautifully simple designs.
Crochet A Half Double Crochet
The Half Double Crochet (abbreviated hdc) is a simple yet versatile stitch - making it one of the basic crochet stitches that every beginner should master. As the name suggests, the half double crochet falls in between the single crochet and double crochet in height, and is worked using aspects of both those stitches. This sturdy crochet stitch creates a tight, dense fabric, perfect for those oversized sweaters and cosy scarves.
Crochet A Double Crochet
The Double Crochet (abbreviated dc) is one of the most versatile yet common crochet stitches. This stitch is about twice as tall as a single crochet, and creates a fairly dense (but not stiff) fabric, perfect for those cosy sweaters, scarves and afghans we all know and love. You can easily combine the double crochet with many other stitches to produce dozens of interesting patterns and textures.
Crochet A Triple Crochet
The Triple Crochet (abbreviated tr) is a basic crochet stitch that works up quickly and a little taller than it’s younger sibling, the double crochet. It is an extremely versatile stitch that can be used in a number of ways throughout the duration of your crochet journey, as it produces a very loose fabric, perfect for light, airy shawls, sweaters and throws.
Crochet A Double Triple Crochet
The Double Triple Crochet (abbreviated dtr) is another basic crochet stitch that works up quickly into a loose, airy fabric. This stitch is the next step up in height from the triple crochet, whilst remaining equally as versatile, as it’s lightweight design is commonly used in combination with other stitches when crocheting lacy shawls and dainty boho vests.
Hope you all enjoyed this little lesson in the art of crocheting! Have a lovely day indulging in your new found hobby.