Crochet Techniques: Waistcoat Stitch / Center Single Crochet (CSC)

The "waistcoat stitch" is a crochet technique that creates a fabric similar to stockinette stitch in knitting.
The technique itself is essentially the same as a single crochet, but the hook is inserted into a different position than a regular sc.

By inserting the hook into the center of the "V" (the legs) of the sc from the previous round, you will create a center single crochet (csc).
The English name "Center Single Crochet" perfectly describes this technique.

While regular sc tends to slant to the right, the csc is less likely to slant because the hook is inserted directly into the center of the stitch.
In this guide, we will explore how to work the waistcoat stitch (csc).

Video Tutorial

This video explains how to work the center single crochet (csc).
The video demonstrates the csc using a round of regular single crochet (sc) as a base.

Click here for the English video tutorial:
How to Crochet: Center Single Crochet (Waistcoat Stitch)

How to Insert the Hook

To ensure you are inserting the hook correctly, these additional images show exactly which strands are being picked up.

1. This is the single crochet (sc) stitch of the previous round.

2. Using the same image as 1, the pink area indicates the right "leg" of the sc. This strand connects to the back of the fabric...

3. The pink strand is the one to focus on. It is the yarn connected to the right "leg" and is located just behind the "top 2 loops" of the sc.

4. Catch the right "leg" of the sc with your hook and pull it to the right, while simultaneously inserting the hook deep into the stitch.

5. Once inserted, you will pick up 3 strands as shown here. The strand indicated by the pink arrow is the one connected to the right "leg" of the sc.

6. From step 5, yarn over and simply work it like a regular sc. You have now completed a center single crochet (csc).

Characteristics of the Waistcoat Stitch (csc)

Method and Fabric Texture

As explained above, the way you insert the hook for a csc is different from a regular sc.

While the hook slides easily into the top 2 loops of a regular sc, the csc requires a bit more effort to insert the hook.
Why not give it a try and see how it feels?

It may take a little practice, but the unique, cute texture of the csc is worth it, providing a great sense of accomplishment.
Since it is less likely to slant, it produces a beautiful finish—especially when working with colorwork and patterns.
Just like regular sc, it produces a sturdy and firm fabric.

Choosing the Right Yarn

In the video, I used a thick, smooth tubular yarn, which made the crocheting process very smooth.
For your first csc project, we recommend using a smooth, plump yarn that doesn't split easily.

Fancy yarns that snag easily or make it hard to see your stitches might be fine for regular sc, but you may find them a bit tricky for the center single crochet (csc).

Also, as mentioned earlier, it is harder to insert the hook than with a regular sc. To avoid your stitches getting too tight, you may want to use a larger hook size and crochet more loosely.

Please enjoy exploring the difference from your usual crochet!