How to Make a Chain

The chain stitch, usually written as ch, is typically the very first step in any crochet project. It lays the foundation for countless designs and is one of the earliest stitches every beginner picks up.

We'll start by getting that first loop onto the hook. Lay the yarn down on the table and shape it into a circle. Fold the circle over the top of the yarn that runs back to the ball. Now reach into the circle and pull the yarn from inside it while holding both ends — this opens up a bigger loop.

Slide the hook through that loop and snug it up tight. Hold the knot with one hand and, with the other, pull on the strand connected to the ball. Aim for a tight loop, much like the loops you'd normally form on the hook.

Hold the hook in one hand and the working yarn in the other. Wrap the yarn over the hook from back to front, then draw it through the loop already sitting on your hook. That's one chain made.

Now just repeat the motion: yarn over, then pull the yarn through the loop on the hook. Every time you do this, you add another chain stitch. Carry on until you've made however many chains your pattern calls for.

Try to keep your chains even and relaxed. Pull them too tight and they'll be tough to work into on the next row; leave them too loose and the edge can end up looking untidy. With a bit of practice, your chains will gradually even out and look more consistent.

The chain is a simple stitch, but since it's the launch point for so many crochet projects, it's well worth taking the time to practice.