Single crochet, like the chain stitch, is made by using the hook to form loops of yarn. However, single crochet uses (and builds on) a foundation chain as a base.
Foundation Chain and First Row
Make a foundation chain. For a practice swatch of 12 stitches, chain 13 stitches. Notice the front of the chain. (D32)
Left-Handers
Right-Handers
Now look at the back. Note the difference. You will need to be able to distinguish the front of a chain. (D33)
Now draw the hook through the chain, bringing the yarn with it. As you do this, you must keep the hook either facing downward or facing you so that the yarn doesn't fall off the hook. There will be two loops on the hook.
Yarn over again and draw the hook and yarn through the two loops that are on the hook. (D36)
You have just completed one single crochet stitch and should have one loop on the hook. (D37)
To make the next stitch, put your hook into the next chain stitch, following the steps above. (D38)
Continue across the row. Work one single crochet in each chain stitch. Count your stitches. You started with 13 chain stitches and will end up with 12 single crochets, since the skipped first chain stitch counted as a turning chain. (D39)
After you count your stitches, make 1 chain stitch (your turning chain for the next row), then turn your work around so the hook is on the right side. (D40A & D40B)
Second Row and all other rows
Working additional rows is a little different than the first row. Instead of working into a foundation chain, you will now be working into the stitches of the row below. However, the single crochet stitch itself will be made in exactly the same way.
The tops of the single crochet stitches look like chain stitches. Slide the hook under the two strands that form the chain on the top of the first single crochet. (D41)
Yarn over, then draw the hook back through. There should be two loops on your hook. Now yarn over again, and draw the hook through the two loops. You've just completed one single crochet.
Continue working across the row, making one single crochet in each single crochet from the first row. (D42)
Count your stitches. You should have 12 single crochets. The turning chain is not counted as a stitch. Now chain one and turn your work around again, so the hook is again on the right side. Continue working rows just as you did for the second row.
Crochet Lessons ©1997 Crochet Guild of America, Diagrams ©1990 TNNA