How To Crochet A Chain Stitch (ch) - Beginner Guide

Quick Steps: Chain Stitch

• Make a slip knot
• Yarn over
• Pull through loop
• Repeat

Each repeat = one chain stitch

What is a Chain Stitch?

The chain stitch is the starting foundation of crochet.

It is used to:

• Begin projects
• Create base rows
• Form spacing in patterns

When to Use a Chain Stitch

Use chain stitches to:

• Start nearly all crochet projects
• Create foundation chains
• Add height between rows
• Form decorative spaces

Step-by-Step Instructions

1 - Make a slip knot by creating a loop with the yarn and pulling the end through the loop. Place the slip knot onto the crochet hook.

2 - Hold the crochet hook in your right hand (or left hand if you are left-handed).

Hold the yarn in your left hand, with the tail end of the yarn held between your middle and ring fingers and the working end of the yarn draped over your index finger.

3 - Slide the crochet hook under the yarn and over the hook, and catch it under the hook.

4 - Pull the hook with the yarn back through the loop on the hook.

5 - You have now made one chain stitch! Repeat steps 3-4 to make additional chain stitches.

Watch How to Chain Stitch

Learn how to make a crochet chain stitch in the video below.

What Does The Back Of A Chain Stitch Look Like?

When you look at a foundation chain, you'll notice two distinct sides:

• Front: looks like a row of "V" shapes
• Back: has a series of small bumps (often called the back bumps)

Most beginner patterns will have you work into the front of the chain, inserting your hook through the center of the "V".

However, some patterns will ask you to work into the back bump of the chain instead.

Working into the back bump creates a cleaner, more finished edge that closely resembles the top of your stitches-perfect for professional-looking projects.

How To Count Chain Stitches

When counting your chain stitches:

• Do NOT count the slip knot
• Do NOT count the loop on your hook
• Only count the "V" stitches in between

Each "V" = one chain stitch

How To Prevent Tight Foundation Chains?

A tight foundation chain can cause:

• Curling at the edge
• Uneven tension
• Difficulty working into stitches

If your chain feels tight, try this:

Loosen your tension - Make your loops slightly larger as you chain. (You can improve this by learning how to hold yarn when crocheting.)

Use a larger hook - Use a bigger hook for the foundation chain, then switch back to the recommended size for the rest of your project. (See our crochet hook sizes guide for help choosing the right hook.)

This is one of the easiest ways to improve your crochet immediately.

What Are Turning Chains?

A turning chain (t-ch) is used at the beginning of a new row to bring your yarn up to the correct height for the next stitches.

This helps keep your edges straight and even, especially when working stitches like half double crochet stitch, double crochet stitch or treble crochet.

Turning Chain Guide

• Single crochet (sc) - chain 1
• Half double crochet (hdc) - chain 2
• Double crochet (dc) - chain 3
• Treble crochet (tr) - chain 4

If you haven't learned these yet, you can follow the step-by-step tutorials for single crochet stitch, half double crochet stitch, double crochet stitch, and treble crochet.

When To Make A Turning Chain

You can make your turning chain:

• before turning your work
• or after turning your work

The most important thing is to stay consistent throughout your project.

Does the Turning Chain Count as a Stitch?

This depends on the pattern:

• Some patterns count it as a stitch
• Others do not

If you're unsure how patterns work, check our crochet terms and abbreviations guide to understand common instructions.

Common Mistakes

• Chains too tight make it hard to work into
• Uneven loops give inconsistent tension
• Losing count

Beginner Tips

• Keep chains loose and even
• Count stitches as you go
• Practice rhythm for consistency

Related Techniques

• Slip knot (starting step)
• Slip stitch (used after chains)

Learn Basic Crochet in Order

Slip knot

Chain stitch (you are here)

• Single crochet
• Slip stitch

Chain Stitch FAQs

What to Learn Next

• Learn Single Crochet (next essential stitch)
• Learn Slip Stitch (for joining and finishing)

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