How to make a chain stitch (ch)

A chain stitch (ch) is one of the first crochet stitches you'll learn. By repeating chain stitches, you can create a foundation chain, which is often used to start crochet projects worked in rows.

Watch the lesson

Step-by-step instructions

Make a slip knot

Step 1
Step 2

Hold your yarn:

Hold the yarn tail in one hand and the working yarn (the strand leading to the ball) in the other.

Make a loop:

Cross the yarn tail in front of the working yarn to make a loop.

Step 3

Fold the loop over:

Fold the loop to one side, keeping the working yarn running through the middle.

Step 4

Tighten into a knot:

Pull the strand in the center of the loop upward while you pull the yarn tail to tighten. And that’s your slip knot! You can change the loop size by pulling the working yarn.

Make the chain (ch)

Step 6
Step 5

Hook into the loop:

Slip your hook into the loop, then snug the loop up so it sits comfortably around the hook - not tight. Hold the yarn in place with your other hand.

Yarn over:

With the hook tip facing you and in front of the working yarn, yarn over. Bring the hook from the front, down under the yarn, behind it, and up again so the yarn wraps the hook.

Step 7
Step 8

Pull through:

Pull that yarn through the loop on your hook. And that’s one chain (ch) stitch made!

Keep going:

Repeat the yarn over and pull through to make as many chains (ch) as your pattern asks for.

Well done! You've learned how to make a chain stitch, one of the building blocks of crochet. We're right here with you every step of the way.

You've got it when: Your chain links look even and you can slide your hook into each one without forcing it.