Common Crochet Stitches Explained
A visual guide to the stitches you'll use most — single crochet, half double, double, and treble — with step-by-step instructions and tips for each.
The Building Blocks of Crochet
Most crochet patterns — from simple dishcloths to complex garments — use just four core stitches. Learn these, and you can make almost anything.
Single Crochet (sc)
The shortest and most dense stitch. Creates a tight, solid fabric perfect for amigurumi, bags, and dishcloths.
Height: 1 chain high
How to Work Single Crochet
- Insert hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over, pull through the stitch — 2 loops on hook.
- Yarn over, pull through both loops — 1 loop remains.
Done. That's one single crochet.
Uses: Amigurumi, bags, edging, baby items, tight fabric panels.
Half Double Crochet (hdc)
A slightly taller stitch with a characteristic extra loop on the back. Creates a dense, sturdy fabric with more drape than sc.
Height: 1.5 chains high
How to Work Half Double Crochet
- Yarn over.
- Insert hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over, pull through the stitch — 3 loops on hook.
- Yarn over, pull through all three loops — 1 loop remains.
The extra yarn wrap gives hdc its characteristic look — a small horizontal bar across the top.
Uses: Hats, scarves, blankets, baby items, ribbing (in BLO).
Double Crochet (dc)
The workhorse of crochet. Twice as tall as sc, works up quickly and creates a beautiful, slightly open fabric.
Height: 3 chains high
How to Work Double Crochet
- Yarn over.
- Insert hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over, pull through the stitch — 3 loops on hook.
- Yarn over, pull through the first 2 loops — 2 loops remain.
- Yarn over, pull through the last 2 loops — 1 loop remains.
Uses: Blankets, garments, granny squares, flowers, most patterns.
Treble Crochet (tr)
Even taller than dc — gives an open, lacy look. Great for decorative patterns and lightweight shawls.
Height: 4 chains high
How to Work Treble Crochet
- Yarn over twice.
- Insert hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over, pull through the stitch — 4 loops on hook.
- Yarn over, pull through first 2 loops — 3 loops remain.
- Yarn over, pull through next 2 loops — 2 loops remain.
- Yarn over, pull through last 2 loops — 1 loop remains.
Uses: Lace patterns, shawls, decorative edging, open-weave fabric.
Stitch Height Quick Reference
| Stitch | Chain Height | Turning Chain |
|---|---|---|
| Slip stitch (sl st) | 0 | 0 |
| Single crochet (sc) | 1 | Ch 1 |
| Half double crochet (hdc) | 1.5 | Ch 2 |
| Double crochet (dc) | 3 | Ch 3 |
| Treble crochet (tr) | 4 | Ch 4 |
Turning Chains
At the end of each row, you need to turn your work and make a turning chain before starting the next row. The turning chain lifts your hook to the correct height for the next stitch.
Note: Whether the turning chain counts as a stitch varies by pattern — always follow the pattern's instructions.
Tips for Even Stitches
- Tension is everything. Try to keep consistent pressure on the yarn throughout.
- Count frequently. Dropped or added stitches throw off the whole row.
- Use a hook that suits your yarn. Check the yarn label for the recommended hook size.
- Work into the correct loops. Unless instructed otherwise, always insert through both loops of the stitch.
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