Different Crochet Stitches

Crochet can be a relatively easy craft to learn, consisting of yarn and one hook. The hook pulls the yarn through a series of loops, creating stitches and, ultimately, crocheted fabric. There are a number of crochet stitches, and each stitch creates a different effect in the finished project.

The Chain

The beginning base for all crochet projects is the chain. Begin by making a slipknot toward the end of the yarn, putting the hook through the loop, and pulling the yarn to tighten the loop so that it is snug but not tight. Using the hooked end, grab the longer end of the yarn and pull it through the loop, keeping the yarn on the hook. This has created one link of chain. Continue repeating this until your chain is the desired length for your project.

Single Crochet

Single crochet is the most basic stitch, and the one upon which all variations have been built. Begin with a chain, and put the hook through the second chain link from your hook. Use the hook to pull the long end of the yarn through this chain link, keeping the yarn on your hook. At this point you will have two loops on your hook. Use the hook to pull the long yarn through both loops at the same time. This completes the single crochet stitch. Push the hook through the next link in the chain, moving right to left, and repeat the stitches.

Double Crochet

Double crochet is a versatile stitch and is frequently used in afghans. Begin with a chain of a desired length, with your hook through the last chain link. Wrap the long end of the yarn around the hook, which is called a "yarn over." Count to the third link in the chain and push the hook through this chain link. Pull the yarn through the link, keeping the loop on your hook. This will result in three loops on your hook body. Yarn over and pull the yarn through the first two loops, leaving two on the hook. Yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops, completing the stitch.

Filet Crochet

Filet crochet can produce a delicate lacy look, and seems complicated but really is a somewhat simple procedure. Create a chain the length of your project. On the third link from your hook, double crochet. After double crochet is done, chain once. Skip one chain link in the original chain and create a double crochet in the second chain link. Continue this procedure until the end of the row. This pattern will make a lacy, netlike piece, delicate and airy. It is also possible to create designs in the fabric, depending on where you put the holes and the stitches.

Shell Stitch

This stitch produces a fabric that has undulating rows, looking like rows of shells or waves. Begin with a chain the desired width of your piece. In the second stitch from your hook, single crochet. Skip the next two stitches and create five double crochets in the next stitch. Skip the next two stitches and single crochet in the next. Continue this pattern until the end of the row. The next row is crocheted the same way, except that the double crochet part is done above the single crochet part, and vice versa. This stitch looks particularly nice in sweaters and afghans.

References

• Learn Basic Crochet Stitches