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Single crochet

The short, sturdy basic stitch. Dense and firm.

#3 of 10 · Updated November 2026 · The Yarn Math

Single crochet, illustrated.

Single crochet is the shortest of the basic stitches and makes a firm, tight fabric with small holes. It is the stitch used for most amigurumi, because the stuffing does not show through.

Abbreviation (US)sc
UK namedc (double crochet)
Height1 chain tall
Turning chainch 1 (does not count as a stitch)
Foundation chainStitches you want + 1
LevelBeginner
Good forAmigurumi, bags, dishcloths, edges and firm fabric.

How to make single crochet

  1. Insert the hook into the stitch.
  2. Yarn over and pull up a loop (2 loops on the hook).
  3. Yarn over and pull through both loops.

Pattern

  1. Chain the number of stitches you want + 1.
  2. Row 1: sc in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across.
  3. Row 2: ch 1, turn, sc in each stitch across.
  4. Repeat row 2.

Tips

Foundation chain

How many chains to start

Measure your gauge on a swatch in this stitch. The chain count includes the turning chain.

Chain

    Questions

    What is single crochet called in UK terms?

    Double crochet (dc). UK patterns name stitches by a different count, so a UK "double crochet" is a US single crochet.

    Top 10 crochet stitches