Crochet Basics: How to Work Chain Stitch

We will explain the basics of crocheting, the chain stitch.
Chain stitching is also a technique used to cast on stitches when starting to knit a piece.
It can also be used in patterned knitting, to make button loops, or knit long to use as a drawstring for a drawstring bag.
This is the most commonly used crochet technique, so be sure to give it a try.

Video crochet instructions

This video explains how to crochet a chain stitch.
We also explain how to make a chain loop and give tips on how to knit a neat chain, so please use this as a reference.

On this page (below the video) there is an explanation using knitting patterns called "How to read knitting patterns", so if you read that first, it will be easier to understand the video.

How to read knitting patterns

We will explain the knitting pattern for chain stitch.
In the video above, we are knitting a chain of 10 stitches.

You can quickly read just the "How to Knit" section, or if you have time, please also refer to the logic behind the knitting pattern in the "Knitting Pattern Explanation" section.

[Knitting Method 1: Knitting in a straight line]

It's too straightforward to explain in words (the video will make it easier to understand), but you knit 10 chain stitches.

[Knitting pattern explanation]

In knitting patterns, chain stitches are represented by hollow ovals.
When there are too many chains to complete the oval, an ellipsis is used. When an ellipsis is used, there is an explanation of how many chain stitches are needed.
　

[Knitting Method 2: Make a loop out of the knitted chain]

Knit 10 chain stitches, then insert the needle into the first chain stitch (scooping up the back of the chain and one stitch on the other side), and make a slip stitch to create the chain end.

[Knitting pattern explanation]

This is a knitting pattern for making a loop chain.
There are 10 white ovals and a small black oval. The white ovals are the same as the chain stitches made in step ①. The small black oval represents the slip stitch.
Knit a chain stitch and then finish with a slip stitch.

This knitting pattern symbol can be knitted in the same way even if the number of chain stitches changes.
The chain stitch + slip stitch technique is also used for decorative picots and chain loops used to fasten buttons.
It's very convenient and has many uses, so be sure to keep it in the back of your mind.

<Thread used in explanatory image>
Hamanaka: "Doo!"
This is a fluffy 100% wool yarn.

Recipes using "Chain Knitting"