CROCHET

Stitch Encyclopedia

An Illustrated Guide to the Essential Crochet Stitches

CHRONICLEBOOKS
 contents

B as ic Techniques

Basic Crocheting 4

Holding yarn & hook 5

Chain stitch 6

Single crochet 8

Welcome. Half double crochet 10

Double crochet 12
For those of you who are about to try crochet for the
Triple (treble) crochet 14
first time, or those who already know the basics, you’ll be
able to master the art of crochet by following the easy-to-
Double treble crochet 15

understand illustrations contained in this book. Slip stitch 16

Crochet in the back loop 18

Perhaps you already know how to crochet with yarn and
a hook but find instructions in published patterns difficult
to follow. Or maybe you need a little help to be able to
crochet evenly or to neatly finish your pieces.

This book illustrates precisely where to place the hook,

where to hold the yarn, and where to pull the yarn through
for each stitch. By practicing these steps as you work your
projects, each piece will come out a beautiful work of art.

The basic techniques are the same whether using thin

crochet thread or thick yarn to work the pattern stitches
or to join finished pieces together. You no longer have to
dream about being able to crochet; you will find all the
answers in this book.
 Cro chet Patterns Ma king Mot i f s

Basic Stitch Patterns 20 Crocheting in the Round 42

& Joining Motifs

Plain net stitch 21 Working in rounds 43

Filet crochet 22 Techniques for joining motifs 50

Puff stitch 24 Button loop 55

Popcorn stitch 26

Relief stitch 28

Other Techniques To ol s & Tips

Shaping, Seaming, and Edging 30 Getting Started &

56
Finishing Touches

Increases & decreases 31 Materials 57

Seaming & joining 36 Hooks & tools 58

Picot crochet 38 Weaving yarn tails 60

Reverse single crochet 40 Joining yarn 61

Twisted single crochet 41

Index 62
 CROCHET

B a s i c T e c h n i q ue s
BASIC CROCHETING

A hook and a strand of yarn are all that you need to begin
crocheting. Crocheting can be a simple or an intricate process,
depending on the stitches and techniques used. First you need
to master the basics in this chapter as your foundation; then
you can try a variety of crocheting patterns.

This illustration shows the first technique you will need

for crocheting in rows.

TURNING YOUR WORK

When working in rows, it’s important to be consistent in your method of turning

your work before beginning the next row. This will keep the ends of your crochet
piece neat. After finishing the row, work the required number of chains for the
turning chain, and then turn your work toward the right while holding the hook
and the turning chain in place.

4
H O L D I N G YA R N & H O O K

HOLDING THE YARN HOLDING THE HOOK

Yarn end

Holding the thread The middle finger supports the movement of the hook
between the thumb
and middle finger,
move it up and
down while working.

2 to 2½ in/
5 to 6 cm

Yarn end

Holding the yarn and hook together

When the
yarn is loose
and difficult
to work with,
wrap the yarn
around your
pinky finger
to adjust the
tension.
Yarn end

5
 Basic T echniques

C H A I N S T I T C H
SLIPKNOT
The most basic stitch used to begin a piece.

1
Place the hook over the yarn

Hold the yarn where it twists, and wrap

the hook around the yarn

Wrap the hook

upward and around
toward you

Yarn end

6
5 8

3
3
2
2
Slipknot
(not counted 1
as a stitch) 1

3 chains from 3 chains from

right side wrong side

6 PICKING UP STITCHES FROM

THE FOUNDATION CHAIN

Picking up a stitch from the back loop.

Begin working
a chain

Knot

Picking up a stitch from the front loop.

First chain Picking up a stitch from under both loops of the foundation chain.

Knot

7
 Basic T echniques

S I N G L E C R O C H E T
Begin with a foundation chain; do not count the slipknot.

3
2
1st row
8 3 2 1st
chain 3

1 Row 1: Foundation chain, First

showing 8 chains and turning chain
to 5
chain (the last chain before count 8 7 6
the loop on the hook) 3 2
8 7 6 5 4
Turning chain First chain
4 3 2

Foundation
chain

2
Pick up stitch from the back loop 4

Second chain First single

crochet
First chain
Turning
chain

5
Insert hook here Second stitch

First single
6 5 4 3 2 crochet
8 7

8
7 Row 2 12

Turning chain

Eighth
stitch

Turning
chain,
Row 1

8 13

Turning chain 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Pick up both loops 8
Turning chain

Turning chain

9
14 Row 3

Turning chain

10

First stitch
Second stitch

15
Turning chain
11 Second stitch is not counted
5 4 3 2 1
8 7 6 as a stitch

Row 3
Turning
chain
Row 2

Row 1

9
 Basic T echniques

HALF DOUBLE CROCHET

The first 2 chains of the foundation row are the turning chain for the first row and are counted as the first stitch.
Wrap the yarn once around the hook, insert the hook in the foundation chain and pull up a loop (3 loops are on
the hook), yarn over, and pull up a loop through all 3 loops.

2 5
1 row

8 3 2 1
chain Second chain
First chain
1 Row 1 7 6 5
4
3
8 Turning chain

2 Base chain
4 3 Turning chain
8 7 6 5
(2 chains)

Base chain
Foundation
chain 6

8
2
7 6 5 4 3 2
First stitch

Pick up from the

back loop

Second chain from turning chain

Yarn over and pull up a loop through 7

3 the second chain from turning chain
Row 2

Turning chain (first stitch of Row 2)

10
8 12 Row 3

2-chain turning chain (first stitch of Row 3)

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Turning chain,
First stitch Row 2
of Row 2
Pick up under both loops
Turning chain,
Row 1

9 13
First stitch
7 6 5 4 3 2

10 14

Second stitch Eighth chain

(pick up
First stitch
7 6 5 4 3 both loops)

11
15

Seventh stitch
Row 3

Eighth stitch
Row 2
Turning
chain from
first row Row 1
(pick up
both loops)

11
 Basic T echniques

D O U B L E C R O C H E T
The first 3 chains are the turning chain for Row 1 and are counted as the first stitch. Yarn over once,
insert the hook in the foundation chain and pull up a loop (3 loops are on the hook), yarn over, and
pull the yarn through 2 loops twice.

2 5
Second stitch
1 row

8 3 2 1
chain First stitch

Turning
1 Row 1 3 chain
Turning 8 7 6 5 4
Second stitch chain
7 6 5 4 3 (3 chains)
8

Base chain
Base chain
Foundation
chain Pick up from the back loop
chain before turning chain
6

2 Yarn over and pull the yarn

8 7
through to the same height
as 2 chains First
6 5 4 3 2
stitch

3 Yarn over, pull the yarn

through the first 2 loops
7 Row 2

3 chains of turning chain

(first stitch of Row 2)

Yarn over, pull the yarn

4 through the next 2 loops

12
 8 11 Row 3

3-chains turning chain (first stitch of Row 3)

Pick up under 2 loops

12 First stitch after Last stitch

turning chain
9
Second stitch
First stitch

Turning chain
7 6 5 4 3

13
10 2
6 5 4 3
8 7

First stitch

Row 3
Eighth
stitch
Pick up
both loops

Row 2

Row 1

First stitch of Row 1

13
 Basic T echniques

TRIPLE ( TREBLE ) CROCHET

The first 4 chains of the foundation chain are the turning chain for the first row, and are counted as the
first stitch. Yarn over twice, insert the hook in the foundation chain and pull up a loop. Yarn over, and pull
through 2 loops, 3 times.

5
2 Yarn over and pull through the last 2 loops
1 row

8 321
chain

1 Row 1 Turning chain

(4 chains)
Second chain from turning chain

8 7 6 5 4 3
First chain

Foundation
chain

Yarn over and pull the yarn through 6

2 to the height of 2 chains

Second stitch
First stitch

Turning
chain
Yarn over and pull 8 7 6 5 4 3
3 through 2 loops

Base chain

7
8

7 6 5 4 3 2 First
Yarn over and pull through
stitch
4 2 loops a second time

Completed first row. After working the second row the

pattern becomes more apparent.
14
DOUBLE TREBLE CROCHET
The first 5 chains are the turning chain for the first row and count as the first stitch. Yarn over 3 times,
insert the hook in the foundation chain and pull up a loop (4 loops on the hook), yarn over and pull
through 2 loops 4 times.

1 row ADJUSTING THE NUMBER OF STITCHES

IN THE FOUNDATION CHAIN
8 32 1 If you work too many chains for the foundation chain, adjust the
chain length at the end of the first row by unraveling the extra chains.

1
1 Row 1

Turning chain
(5 chains)
Extra chains
Second chain

8 7 6 5 4 3
Base chain Beginning
yarn tail

Foundation chain 2
3 times
Yarn over and pull Twice,
through 2 loops once,
2

Loosen knot pulling toward you

Yarn over and pull through
2 loops a fourth time
Pull through

Pull through toward you

Pull to unravel
extra chains

4 Second stitch 3
First stitch

Turning chain

8 7 6 5 4 3

Base chain Re-tie end knot

15
 Basic T echniques

S L I P S T I T C H
There is no height to this stitch, thus no turning chain is needed. Insert the hook into the previous row,
yarn over, and pull a loop through the loop on the hook.

WHEN THE PREVIOUS ROW IS

SINGLE CROCHET
4

8 3 2 1 3 2
7 6 5 4
chain
First slip stitch

Last stitch

First stitch

6
Placing the yarn on the side away from you, insert
the hook into the first stitch of the previous row.

3 7 5 4 3 2 1
8 6

Yarn over and pull the yarn through the loop on the hook.

16
 SLIP STITCH CORD
WHEN THE PREVIOUS ROW
IS DOUBLE CROCHET
Working a row of slip stitch onto a foundation chain creates a cord.
Work into the back loop of the chain only to make the cord.

1 row
8 3 21
chain
8 3 21
chain

1 1

First
stitch

Skip 1 chain
to round off
the corner

First chain
2
8 3
7 6 5 4

2 2
2
8 7 6 5 4 3 First slip
stitch

3 First slip stitch

3
4
5
3 8 7 6

Second chain

7 6 5 4 3 2 1
8 4

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 First slip stitch

Corner chain

17
 Basic T echniques

CROCHET IN THE BACK LOOP

BACK LOOP SINGLE CROCHET
This technique is usually started after the first row, with Row 1 having been worked in single crochet, half double
crochet, or double crochet. The same basic stitch is used for the second row; the difference is where to pick up
the next row of stitches. Normally, you would pick up under both loops (into the entire stitch); for this technique,
the stitches for the second row are picked up in the back loop only. Use this technique both working in rows and
working in the round.
5
BACK LOOP CROCHET
(USING SINGLE CROCHET)
3
2
1 row
8 3 2 1
stitch

1 Row 2 6 Row 3

Turning chain

After working the first row, begin Row 2 by working as

shown on page 9, diagrams 7 and 8, but working only
in the back loop of the single crochet.

4 Row 3

Row 2

Row 1

After several rows are completed, the texture of the

pattern becomes apparent.

18
 6
JOINING FOR WORKING IN THE ROUND Pull through
(USING SINGLE CROCHET)

The following illustrations

3 show how to join rounds and
2 complete the first row.
1 row
3 2 1 stitch Yarn over From there, pull the loop through to join the row.
and pull loop
through
1 7
Last chain

First chain

Work the turning chain.

2

Loop pulled through 8 Row 2 Pick up from the back loop only

Working the first chain

(the turning chain).
Turning chain

Turning chain

Single crochet in the same 9

chain as the turning chains
were worked.
Work 1 single crochet

4 Row 1
First single crochet
Chains—not counted as stitches

10
5 Remove hook
Insert hook
Remove hook
Row 2

Row 1

The right side of the piece has a

Reinsert the hook in the first single crochet, from behind. line, after working a row of single
crochet in the back loop only.
19
 CROCHET

C r o c h e t P a tte r n s
BASIC stitch patterns

The five crochet stitch patterns illustrated on the following pages commonly
appear in many crochet patterns. These are simple, beautiful designs that can be
used time and time again; they are also used in antique crochet patterns. These
stitch patterns are worked using a combination of the basic stitch techniques
presented in the previous chapter. There are several techniques for adding
texture to your piece by increasing stitches or using variations of chain stitch at
the end of the chapter. They are just a few ways to add depth to your piece.

20
PLAIN net STITCH
Plain net stitch is worked by using both chain stitch and single crochet.
Work the first row of single crochet, picking up from 2 loops on the foundation chain as shown.

3 5 Row 2
2 2 chains
1 row
16 11 6 321
stitch 3 chains
(1 double crochet)

1 Row 1

First chain
After turning, work a single crochet in the center stitch of the chain-5 loop
from the previous row.
Turning chain 6
2 chains
2
Back
loop End
Row 2

Chain 5 After the last single crochet in the

Top half last chain-5 loop, chain 2, then
of chain 7 double crochet in the stitch shown.

Skip 4
chains Single crochet

3
Chain 5 8 End
Row 3

Single crochet through

2 loops in third
chain.
4 chains Single crochet

9
4 Row 1 completed.

Row 3

Row 2

After finishing the Row 1

last single crochet,
chain 5, turn. Turning chain
Base chain

21
 C rochet Patterns

F I L E T C R O C H E T
Filet crochet is worked using chain stitch and double crochet. The size of the space (square) is determined by the
number of chains worked before the double crochet is worked, and this number corresponds to the number of double
crochet worked in the filled squares.

2-CHAIN 3
FILET
CROCHET 2 1 filet
crochet
1 row
square
16 13 10 7 4 1 2-chain gap
stitch 1
2
3
1 Row 1 4
8 7 6 5 Turning chain
(3 chains)

Base chain
Foundation chain stitches = Ninth stitch 2-chain gap
multiple of the stitches in 1 pattern plus 1 stitch from hook
Then chain 2

Double crochet

Skip 3 chains

3
Double crochet

4 Row 2 = 2 chain

End with double

crochet in last
chain

2-chain gap

5 filet patterns

Turning chain

Turn to begin next row.

22
 FILLED PATTERNS USING
FILET CROCHET
Changing the chain-2 spaces to double
5 crochet will create a new stitch pattern.
2 chains

3
Turning
Row 1, 3-chain turning chain 2
chain
1
row
16 13 10 7 4 1
stitch

= 1 square

Base chain 1
Insert hook into top of double crochet from previous row,
work double crochet, chain 2.

Work across. At the end of the row, insert hook into third chain of
turning chain, as indicated on page 13, illustration 10.

23
 C rochet Patterns

P U F F S T I T C H
A puff stitch is made by working 3, 4, or 5 incomplete half double or double crochet stitches in the same chain,
and then completing all stitches at the same time, clustering them together.

PUFF STITCH (USING

DOUBLE CROCHET) 4
First incomplete
double crochet
Second
Third

After working the third incomplete stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop
through all loops on the hook.

Completed puff stitch.

3 First incomplete 6 2
double crochet chains Top of puff stitch

Working in 1 stitch from the previous row, work a total of 3 incomplete

double crochet.

24
 WORKING A PUFF STITCH
PUFF STITCH (USING HALF ON A CHAIN STITCH
DOUBLE CROCHET)

A Find the center of the loop, or the area on the

chain where you want to work a puff stitch.
Work the puff stitch into the chain space.

Incomplete first
1 half double
crochet
Second
Third

Work 3 incomplete half double crochet, yarn over, and pull up a loop
through all 3 incomplete stitches.

B If you want a puff stitch in a specific chain,

find the center loop of the chain space, and
work into that stitch.

Completed 3-stitch half double crochet puff stitch; chain 2.

3
2 chains Top of puff stitch

25
 C rochet Patterns

P O P C O R N S T I T C H
A popcorn stitch is created by working 5 complete stitches (half double, double, or treble crochet) in the same stitch. To finish
the popcorn stitch, the hook is removed from the loop after working the last stitch, inserted in the first stitch, and then back
into the loop from the last stitch. Then, yarn over and pull a loop through all loops on the hook. This rounded stitch looks like
popcorn, hence its name. Be careful how the hook is inserted if working on the wrong side instead of the right side.

POPCORN STITCH (USING

DOUBLE CROCHET)
With right-side facing

1 4 Fifth stitch

First stitch

Work 5 double crochet in 1 stitch from the previous row. Insert the hook from front to back into
the first double crochet, then into the loop
of the fifth double crochet.

2 5

Pull the loop from the fifth stitch through the first stitch.

3 6

After working the last double crochet, remove the hook. Yarn over and pull to tighten the popcorn stitch, then pull the loop through.

26
7 8

Tightened stitch

With wrong-side facing

3

1
Loop of
fifth stitch
First
stitch

Work 5 double crochet as for right-side popcorn stitch; remove the Yarn over and pull to tighten the stitch, then pull the loop through.
hook from the loop, insert the hook from back to front through The popcorn will pop out toward the right side of the piece.
the first stitch, then reinsert the hook into the loop of the last stitch.

2 4

Pull the loop through the first stitch.

27
 C rochet Patterns

R E L I E F S T I T C H
Relief stitches (also called posting) are picked up beneath the stitch of the previous row, around the post; they create a raised
finished look. This technique may be made on the right side or the reverse side (front posting or back posting). Any crochet
stitch with a post (height) can be worked in this manner.

FRONT POSTING (USING

DOUBLE CROCHET) 3
First 2 loops

2
1 row

Yarn over and pull through 2 loops, 2 times,

leaving extra length both times.
Second 2 loops
4

Yarn over and insert the hook from front to back to front
around the post of the double crochet from the previous
row (as shown by arrow).

Yarn over and pull up a loop around

the post. Pull through more yarn than
for a normal double crochet.

Finished front post stitch using double crochet.

28
 BACK POSTING (USING
DOUBLE CROCHET) 4 Second 2 loops

2
1 row

Yarn over and insert hook from back to front to back around
the post of the double crochet from the previous row.

Completed back post stitch using double crochet.

ALTERNATELY WORKING FRONT

POST AND BACK POST OVER 4 ROWS

With the yarn in back of the work, yarn over, and pull up
a loop, leaving extra length as for a front post.
Row 4
4
3 First 2 loops
Extra length 3

2 Row 3

1
row
Row 2

Rows 2 and 4 Row 1

show front post,
and Row 3 shows
back post viewed
right-side facing.
Yarn over and pull through 2 loops twice to complete
the double crochet, leaving extra length each time.
29
 CROCHET

O t h e r Te c h n i q u e s
SHAPING, SEAMING, AND EDGING

Shaping (increasing or decreasing) is used when making crochet

garments or any item that does not remain a constant size,
such as crocheted motifs, hats, or toys. Increases and decreases are
also important when making lace doilies or circular shawls.

Seaming (joining two pieces together) is used for garments,

home décor items, or bags of all sorts.

Edging can add a subtle finish to a neckline or pillow cover, or it

can be decorative, adding an extra element to a simple piece.

30
Increases & Decreases
Increases and decreases can be used as needed, evenly spaced across a row or round or only at the ends, depending on
where the extra stitches are needed. Use shaping to gradually straighten or round the ends of a piece, or as part of a
decorative stitch pattern.

USING SINGLE CROCHET

INCREASING 2 STITCHES
INCREASING 1 STITCH
IN THE SAME STITCH
Work 2 stitches in 1 stitch from the previous row. Work 3 stitches in 1 stitch from the previous row.

8 stitches 9 stitches

7 stitches 7 stitches

1
1,2 Same as for increasing 1 stitch, left.

4 5

31
 Other T echniques

DECREASE 1 STITCH
Work 2 incomplete stitches in 2 adjacent stitches on the previous row, yarn over,
and pull up a loop through all loops on the hook, completing both stitches.
7 stitches

8 stitches

1 4

2 5

32
 Increases & Decreases

SKIPPING STITCHES
When decreases need to be made at the beginning of a row, skip 2 stitches or more before beginning the pattern stitch. This way the yarn is
carried across the number of stitches to be skipped, and the row begins in the new location. Alternately, the stitches to be skipped can be worked
in slip stitch across to the new beginning of the stitch pattern. Then work the turning chain (if necessary) and continue across, stopping the
same number of stitches from the end. If a large number of stitches need to be decreased at the same time, it is neater if the yarn is fastened off.
Yarn carried over
3 Fifth stitch
2 4 from end
1 row Keep loose,
do not pull tight
4 stitches
decreased

Pull yarn
1 Row 2 through

Insert the hook into the first stitch to be worked for Row 3
(the fifth stitch from the end).
5

After stitching to the end, pull the yarn through to fasten off
before beginning the next row.

2 Beginning of
Row 3
Yarn over and pull up a loop through both loops
Secured loop
on the hook.
4 3 2 1

Row 2
6 First stitch of Row 3

Row 1
4 3 2 1

Insert the hook from front to back into the fourth stitch
from the end.

3
Stitches decreased at the beginning of the row.

7 Row 3

Row 2

Row 1
Yarn over and pull up a loop
loosely in the fourth stitch.

4 stitches
decreased
33
 Other T echniques

USING DOUBLE CROCHET

INCREASE 1 STITCH 3
Work 2 stitches in the same stitch from
the previous row.
8 stitches

7 stitches

INCREASING AT BOTH ENDS

Left side (end) Right side (beginning)

34
 Increases & Decreases

DECREASE 1 STITCH
Work 2 incomplete stitches in adjacent stitches from the previous row. Yarn over and pull up a loop through
all loops on hook, completing the stitches and decreasing 1 stitch.
7 stitches

8 stitches

SINGLE DECREASE AT THE

BEGINNING OF A ROW
Normally a turning chain for double crochet is a chain 3. When decreasing
at the beginning of a row, work a 2-chain turning chain. Working 3 chains
when decreasing makes the turning chain too long and makes the end of the
row loose and uneven. The exception is if the stitches are tight, or you are
working curves, then you may want to work a turning chain of 3 or 4 chains.
2
Right side (beginning)
7 stitches

2 chains
8 stitches

35
 Other T echniques

SEAMING & JOINING

Both of the following methods attach 2 crocheted pieces. Seaming connects pieces by rows and joining connects pieces by
stitches. These methods can be used with pieces crocheted in a variety of stitch patterns; the examples shown are made of
double crochets.

WHIPSTITCH
4
For this method, use a yarn needle threaded with a length of yarn. The
total length of yarn used, wrapping at an angle, will be 3½ times the
length of the edge to be joined. This method is a quick and simple way
to produce a flat finish.

Whipstitch seaming

Insert the needle from back to front, pulling it through

at a slight angle to the left.

5
Lay the pieces side by side, with right-sides up. (Illustration shows using
an attached tail, but you can use a separate strand of yarn.) Insert the
needle into the adjacent piece and pull the thread toward you.

Seaming together from the edges of the rows.

Place the pieces on top of each other, right-sides together. Working across both rows of double crochet.

36
Whipstitch joining CHAIN CROCHET METHOD

This method uses a crochet hook and is suitable for looser

1 patterns. The number of chain stitches used is determined
(Wrong side) by the size of the pieces. Use a strand of yarn approximately
6½ times the length of the finished seam.

Chain and single crochet seaming

Place 2 pieces with right-sides together; insert the
hook through the ends and pull up a loop through
(Right both pieces. Chain 2, insert the hook at the row
side) edge, work 1 single crochet; repeat across.

1
(Right
side)

2 (Wrong
side)

2 chains
3 3
Loop pulled
through

Single crochet
4

2 chains

37
 Other T echniques

P I C O T C R O C H E T
Picot crochet is a fun technique using chain stitches to create loops, small curves, ball-like shapes, and decorative patterns.
This edging stitch pattern combines single crochet, double crochet, and other basic stitches to create designs.

3-CHAIN SLIP-STITCH PICOT CROCHET

(USING SINGLE CROCHET)

3
3 stitches = 1 pattern

3 chains

Chain 3; insert the hook into the front loop and leg of the
single crochet (as shown by arrow).

2
5

Yarn over and pull up a loop through. 3 stitches =

1 picot pattern

38
 3-CHAIN SLIP-STITCH PICOT CROCHET (USING PLAIN NET STITCH)

5 chains in 3 chains
*Rounded plain net stitch 1 pattern

1
Third chain

2 Chain 6; insert the hook into the back and 1 top loop
of the third chain from the hook.

3-chain
picot

Third chain
2 chains
Slip stitch
loop

Yarn over and pull through (slip stitch).

Single crochet
Chain 2.

2 chains

Single crochet in the next chain space from the previous row.
39
 Other T echniques

REVERSE SINGLE CROCHET

Reverse single crochet is worked from left to right (instead of right to left as with single crochet),
without turning the work.

1 4

Turning chain

Work a 1-chain turning chain and, following the arrow Following the arrow, insert the hook into the next stitch.
with the hook, insert into the top of the previous row.

2 5

Yarn over and pull up a loop. Yarn over, pull the hook through, and work a single crochet.

3 6

Yarn over and complete the single crochet.

40
TWISTED SINGLE CROCHET
TWISTED EDGING
This edging is worked the same as single crochet, working from right to left. Twisting the loop while on the hook
creates a thicker stitch and an attractive edging.

Turning
chain
Work a single crochet while the loop is still
twisted on the hook.

5
Work a turning chain, turn. Insert the hook into
the first single crochet of the previous row.

Pull extra yarn through; turn the hook around toward

the front once, twisting the loop on the hook.

Half-turn view.

41
 CROCHET

M a ki n g M o t i f s
CROCHETING IN THE ROUND
& JOINING MOTIFS

Motifs are worked in rounds from the center outward, with evenly spaced increases worked
on every round. An important part of crocheting motifs is the starting point, and techniques
for beginning a motif are introduced in this chapter. By beginning with the most appropriate
technique for your motif, it will be easier to obtain the desired finished piece.
Motifs with corners start the same way as round pieces; only the placement of the increases
on each round will vary, with the increases placed at or near each corner.
Joining finished motifs together can be accomplished in a number of ways. There are joining
techniques at the end of the chapter, as well as instructions for working a button loop. Choose
the appropriate technique that best suits the overall design you are creating.

Motif on page 50 Motif on page 52

42
WORKING IN ROUNDS
Increasing stitches from the center out is a technique used to make round pieces, such as hats, motifs, or lace doilies.
There are many ways to start the first round, depending on what is being made. Usually each round begins with a
turning chain to raise the next round to the proper height for the stitch being used, but when working single crochet,
you may also create a spiral by continuously working around.

SINGLE CHAIN 3 6
TECHNIQUE (USING
SINGLE CROCHET)

Crochet the beginning chain loosely

and stitch around (into) this chain.
This is best used with thin yarns that
hold an even tension. Turning
chain

First single
Insert the hook crochet of the
into the loose round
loop and work Insert the hook into the top of first single
1 single crochet. crochet to join the round.
1
7
Wrap the yarn around the hook 4

With the yarn wrapped

around the hook, pull up
a loop forming a loose
stitch.

Yarn over and pull up a loop

2 through all loops on the hook.
5
8

Loose chain stitch

This stitch becomes the

center of the round.

First single crochet. Round 1 completed.

Continue around, Round 2 is shown on page 45.
working the desired
number of stitches.

43
 Making Motifs

5
MAGIC CIRCLE TECHNIQUE (USING SINGLE CROCHET)

Using a loose double circle

First single
crochet
Wrap yarn around finger twice.

Finished single crochet; continue around.

Yarn end
6

Tighten the circle 5

4
Using Single Crochet
Pull gently
3
1 Round 1 3 First stitch
2
After working the desired number of single crochet,
gently pull the end of the yarn.

Pull shorter end

Securely holding the shape, remove the

double looped circle from your finger.
After pulling the yarn through, work
1 chain for a turning chain.
2 Pull the smaller loop in the direction of the arrow.
4

Insert the hook from front to back into One chain for turning chain; continue Pull again to tighten.
the circle, yarn over, and pull up a loop around, working single crochet into the
following the direction of the arrow. center of the double circle.
44
 WORKING IN ROUNDS

ROUND 2—USING A 12 2
TURNING CHAIN
Round 2
Turning chain

First stitch of
Round 1

Chain 1 for turning chain. 3

6

5 13
Second stitch
First stitch of
4
Round 2
Turning First stitch of
First stitch 3 Second chain Round 2
2 stitch of
Round 1 Slip stitch First stitch of 6
Insert the hook into first single crochet of the Round 1
previous round. 3 6
5
2
10 4
5 4
3
Work 2 single crochet in each single
crochet of Round 1.
The first single crochet is complete;
work another single crochet in the
ROUND 2—WITHOUT A same space (increase 1).
TURNING CHAIN (SPIRAL)
Round 3
4

Yarn over and pull through both loops.

Second single
11 crochet
1 First single
crochet of
First single Round 2
crochet of
Slip stitch 6 Round 1 6

First 5 2
stitch 6 5
3
4 4
2
5
Finished second single crochet.
3 First stitch 3
4 2
When working in a spiral, it may be
Round 1 joined. Work the sixth single crochet into the center difficult to find the beginning stitch at
of the round. Insert the hook and work the the end of each round; placing a marker
first single crochet of Round 2 into the first on the first stitch (see page 59) will
single crochet stitch of Round 1. make it easier.
45
 Making Motifs

MAGIC CIRCLE TECHNIQUE

(USING DOUBLE CROCHET)

4
See the illustration on page 44 for
using a loose double circle.

3 chains (turning chain,

the length of a double
crochet)
Yarn over and join with a slip stitch.

2
5
First double crochet

Turning
chain

Chain 3 (turning chain for Round 1)

into the center of the double circle
(counts as first stitch).

After working the desired number of After joining, Round 1 is complete.

stitches, pull the circle yarn as shown
for single crochet (page 44).

3
6 Round 2 Turning chain

To join the round, insert the hook under both loops Chain 3 for the turning chain, yarn over, insert
at the top of the beginning turning chain. the hook into the top of the turning chain from the
previous round, and complete the double crochet.
46
 WORKING IN ROUNDS

Fastening Off

7 Finish with a chain join; this will give your work a neat
finish after the last row.

1
First double
crochet

Thread a yarn needle with the tail and insert the

needle from behind into the top of the first double
crochet of the round.
There are now 2 stitches in the first stitch (turning chain)
of the previous row. For the remainder of Round 2, work
2 double crochet stitches in each double crochet of the 2
previous round.

8 Leave a 4-in/10-cm tail

Pull the needle through and insert it into the last

double crochet of the round.

This chain becomes the top of the

3 3-chain turning chain

To continue to Round 3, follow steps 3 to 5 to join.To finish after Pull the tail, adjusting it to the same size as the other
Round 2, cut a 4-in/10-cm yarn tail after working the last stitch. stitches. Thread the tail into the back of the stitches.
Then follow instructions for fastening off, following.
47
 Making Motifs

CHAIN TECHNIQUE 4

This technique is best when you want a firm center or if you find
that the magic circle technique does not give you the result you want.
Generally the number of chains worked for the center chain is half the
number of stitches worked in single crochet or a third of the number Slip stitch
worked in double crochet on Round 1 of the motif. Individual
instructions may call for a larger or smaller center.

Ring of chains completed for center.

12 stitches, worked into

a 6-chain center ring. 5

Turning chain
1
6

3
1 2
5
4
Work 1 chain for the turning chain, insert the hook into
the center of the ring, pull up a loop, and complete the
Include the beginning knot when counting the number of chains. first single crochet.

6 First
2 stitch
Last stitch
(stitch 12)

After working the desired number of single crochet stitches, insert the
hook into the first stitch, pull up a loop, and join.
Loosen the knot and insert the hook from
front to back. 7

Yarn over and pull up a loop through the Finished Round 1. Round 2 is worked using one of
loop on the hook to join. the methods shown on page 45.
48
 WORKING IN ROUNDS

RING TECHNIQUE (USING SINGLE CROCHET)

Plastic and vinyl rings are available in most craft shops and come in
a variety of sizes. When making many motifs, the centers need to be
uniform, making rings helpful to use for centers.
3

Turning
chain

Hold the yarn tail and the ring together; work single
crochet into the ring, enclosing the tail in stitches.

Insert the hook from front to back

through the center of the ring, yarn
over, and pull through a loop.

First stitch

After working the desired number of single crochet

stitches into the ring, join by inserting a hook under
the first single crochet, yarn over and pull up a loop,
and pull it through the loop on the hook.

Yarn over and chain 1 in the loop

on the hook (turning chain). ⁄ -in/15-mm ring
58 ⁄ -in/13-mm ring
12

49
 Making Motifs

TECHNIQUES FOR JOINING MOTIFS

The main techniques used for joining motifs are joining finished pieces and the join-as-you-go technique. The second
technique is used both for motifs with straight edges, such as squares and triangles, and for pieces with fewer connecting
points, like rounds and flower motifs.

JOINING FINISHED PIECES When connecting motifs that have straight edges, the edges are placed together and joined
using your method of choice. If a long tail was left at the beginning and end of the finished
motifs, the tails can be used to join the seams.

WHIPSTITCH METHOD 3
Use a yarn needle to join the pieces together. If a long tail is not attached,
cut a 24-in/60-cm strand of yarn; longer strands can be used, but the
yarn may begin to fray and become difficult to handle. If the yarn runs
out before finishing, begin a new strand in the same stitch as the old yarn
ended, weaving the ends in as you go or after the seam is completed.

Wrapping 1 loop only

Motifs can be joined through the back loops only, giving the seam a
smooth appearance.

When the first two motifs have been joined across, lay the
Lay 2 pieces right- next 2 motifs beside the first two, and continue joining.
side up, edges
aligned. Thread 4
the yarn needle,
leaving a tail to
weave in later.
Insert the needle
into the loops
at the corners as
shown.Whipstitch
across, joining
facing stitches
through the
back loops.

2
Work a cross at the corners to avoid leaving a hole.
5

50
Wrapping both loops of a stitch
Lay the pieces out right-sides up, edges aligned, and thread a needle.
Insert the needle through both loops of each stitch, instead of just
the back loops. Joining the motifs by wrapping the whole stitch will 4
create a thicker, stronger seam.

2 Work a cross at the corners to avoid leaving a hole.

Work into the full stitch of the next 2 motif corners. 4 motifs joined.

51
 Making Motifs

JOINING WITH CROCHET 4

Using a hook to join, place the pieces to be joined on
top of each other with right-sides together.

Inside top loop

Joining back loops

Join the yarn by inserting the hook into the back loops of both
pieces and pulling a loop through. Continue in this manner,
working slip stitches across.

1
When the seam is complete, lay the pieces flat
with right-sides up; the front loops of each stitch
should line up neatly.

Joining full stitch

The same technique can be worked by

Pull the yarn through inserting the hook into both loops of each
the corners, then work edge stitch, and working slip stitch across.
a row of slip stitches 1
across, inserting the hook
into the back loops only
of facing stitches.

52
 TECHNIQUES FOR JOINING MOTIFS

JOIN-AS-YOU-GO TECHNIQUE 3
This technique is used to join motifs while working the final round.
It also works well for joining other pieces. The following illustrations
show a flower-type motif being joined to a completed flower as the Yarn over and
final round is worked. They are joined at the center of the chain-loops pull up a loop
of both motifs. through the
chain of the
Joining chain second motif,
joining the
motifs.

First motif Second motif

Join together
here

1 Joining chain

First motif
Work the second
motif to the point
where it will be
joined to the first
motif. Remove
the hook from
the last chain 5
worked, insert
the hook through
Second motif the chain space
of the first motif,
then reinsert
the hook back
into the working
chain of the
second motif.

Joining chain
2 2 chains
2 chains

Pull the chain of the

second motif through
the chain-loop space
of the first motif.

53
 Making Motifs

3
Joining single crochet

Join the motifs together by working a single crochet in the chain-loop space.

First motif

First motif
Joining point
After working the single crochet join, chain 2 to
complete the chain-loop on the second motif.

Second motif 4
Second
motif

Work in pattern to the joining point;

insert the hook into the chain-loop
space of the first motif.

2 chains Single crochet

2 chains

Work a single crochet with a slightly tighter tension.

Second motif is completed and joined to the first motif.

54
B U T T O N L O O P
Button loops can be made in whatever size is needed to fit the chosen buttons. Button loops are worked while
working a row of slip stitches on the edge of the piece.

BUTTON LOOP (USING CHAIN STITCH BUTTON LOOP (USING CHAIN STITCH
AND SLIP STITCH) AND SINGLE CROCHET)

6 5 4 3
1 7 2
8 1
9

Work single crochet to where the button loop should end. Chain 7.
Remove the hook and count back 4 stitches. Insert the hook into the
top of the stitch, reinsert the hook into the end of the button-loop
chain, and pull it through to the right side. Work the button loop the same as Step 1 of the chain and
slip stitch technique (at left).
2

Working in the back loop only, slip stitch in each chain of the button
loop across.
4 3 2
5
3 6
7 Work single crochet across the button loop to the last chain.Work
1 a single crochet into the last single crochet of the edging.

Continue single crochet edging.

Work a stitch into both loops at the end of the button loop (see
illustration), then continue working single crochet edging to the
position for the next button loop.
55
 CROCHET

T o ol s & Ti p s
GETTING STARTED & FINISHING TOUCHES

Crochet is an easy craft, needing only a hook and yarn to begin. Varying the size
of these items will produce a variety of results, from fine lace to heavy rugs. Use the
sizes recommended in your pattern books and on the ball bands of your chosen yarn
or thread. Be sure to check your gauge with the recommended sizes, and if your piece
is too tight or too loose, change the size of your hook and work another swatch. The
hook size should be what is comfortable for you to use in order to obtain the gauge
desired. If you crochet loosely, use a smaller hook; if you crochet tightly, use a larger
hook. It is easier to change the size of the hook than to try to work with a looser
or tighter tension, which may be unnatural for you.

56
Materials

YARN

Crochet may be worked with a vast variety of threads. In Yarn comes in balls or skeins; pull the yarn ends from the
addition to yarn (which is also used for knitting), there center of the balls and wind skeins into balls before using.
are thinner threads (also used for embroidery), and many Yarn labels indicate the type of yarn (fiber or a blend of
types of specialty cords. Threads specifically designed for fibers), color, dye lot, and usually how the yarn should be
crochet may be made from cotton, wool, or linen and washed or blocked. It is a good idea to save the label in
will vary in texture, color, and strength. Choose the thread case this information is needed in the future. Keep any
that best suits what you wish to make. leftover yarn; it will be useful for repairs if the piece is
damaged or if extra is needed for joining.

Lace Threads and Yarn

Lace (0)—Fingering, size 10 crochet thread
#40 Size 6 to 8 steel crochet hook or B-1/2.25 mm
Size 10 steel crochet hook
Very fine (1)—Sock, Fingering, Baby
Hook size B-1 to E-4/2.25 to 3.5 mm

#18 Fine (2)—Baby, Sport

Size 0 to 2 steel crochet hook Hook size E-4 to 7/3.5 to 4.5 mm

Light (3)—DK, Light worsted

Hook size 7 to I-9/4.5 to 5.5 mm
#5
Size 0 steel crochet hook or A-0/2 mm Medium Light (4)—Worsted, Aran
Hook size I-9 to K-10½/5.5 to 6.5 mm

#3 Heavy (5)—Chunky, Rug

Hook size C-2 to E-4/2.75 to 3.5 mm Hook size K-10½ to M-13/6.5 to 9 mm

Bulky (6)—Bulky, Roving

Hemp Thread
Hook size M-13/9 mm or larger
Hook size C-2 to E-4/2.75 to 3.5 mm

Mohair

Andaria
Hook size F-5 to 7/3.75 to 4.5 mm Loop yarn

Mole yarn

57
 H oo k s & T o o ls

HOOKS

Crochet hooks may be made of bamboo, wood, metal, or plastic and increase in size as you progress through the alphabet.
There are also steel (lace) hooks, which get thinner (decrease in size) as the number increases. There are 2 categories of
hooks: single hooks, which have a hook on one end, and double-end hooks, which have hooks on either end.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN
HOOK AND YARN
Use the recommended hook size for the yarn chosen. Yarn labels indicate what hook size works best with it and the approximate gauge that
will be obtained with the yarn using the suggested hook size.

TYPES OF HOOKS Single hooks

Double-end hook

Lace Hook Regular Hooks

12 C-2/2.75 mm

D-3/3.25 mm
10

E-4/3.5 mm
8

F-5/3.75 mm

G-6/4.0 mm

4
7/4.5 mm

H-8/5.0 mm

0
I-9/5.5 mm

J-10/6.0 mm

58
YARN NEEDLES YARN SCISSORS

These needles may also be called darning needles or tapestry A small pair that is lightweight with sharp points is the
needles. They are used for joining motifs, seaming, and finishing most useful.
pieces. They are available in various lengths and sizes, both
straight and with a bent end. Choose a style suitable for the
thickness of the yarn being used.

OTHER USEFUL TOOLS

THREADING THE NEEDLE

Row and stitch markers

Paper clips, safety pins, o-rings, or split-ring markers help
indicate rows or the location where shaping is to be worked
within the body of a piece.

Fasteners
Straight pins, clothespins, or clips are useful to hold crochet
pieces together.

Use the needle to create a loop; insert the loop through the eye of needle.

59
 Weaving Yarn Tails

WEAVING IN ENDS
Thread the yarn end into a yarn needle. With the wrong-side facing, weave the end neatly and securely into a single row
or several stitches, or wrap it into the loops of the bottom of the rows, so that it is not visible on the right side of the piece.
Usually, a length of ¾ to 1¼ in/2 to 3 cm will be sufficient to weave in, but it will depend on the thread or yarn being
used. Cut the remaining tail.

BEGINNING YARN TAIL END YARN TAILS

Into Double Crochet Into Double Crochet

Passing through
the end loops

Passing through
the end loops

Passing through
loops sideways

Passing through
loops sideways

Into Plain Net Stitch

Tied

60
Joining Yarn

JOINING KNOTS
Although it's better to join a new strand of yarn at the beginning or end of a row, the following 3 techniques can be used
for joining yarn mid-row, if this becomes necessary.

SHEET BEND KNOT DOUBLE SHEET BEND A

KNOT
A B
1 1 A
B 5
B
2 to 3 cm

A
A
A B
B
2 2 6

PULL-THROUGH KNOT
B
B
A
3 3 1
A
New yarn
B

Wrap ¾ to 1¼ in/
2 to 3 cm

A
A

4 B 4 B
A 2

B A

61
 inde x

2 2-chain filet crochet 22 Holding the hook 5

3 3-chain slip stitch picot crochet 38, 39 Holding the yarn 5

A Adjusting the number of stitches in 15 Holding yarn and hook 5

the foundation chain (basic holding techniques)
B Back loop crochet 18 Hooks 58

Back posting (using double crochet) 29 I Increase 1 stitch using double crochet 34

Balls (of yarn) 57 Increase 1 stitch using single crochet 31

Basic techniques 4 Increase 2 stitches in the same stitch 31

using single crochet

Beginning yarn tail 60 Increase at both ends 34

Button loops 55 Increase stitches 31, 34

C Chain and single crochet seaming 37 J Join-as-you-go technique (crochet join) 53, 54
method

Chain crochet method 37 Joining 36

Chain crochet technique 48 Joining finished pieces 50

Chain join 47 Joining for working in-the-round 19

D Decrease 1 stitch using double crochet 35 Joining motifs 50

Decrease 1 stitch using single crochet 32 Joining with crochet (slip stitch) 52, 53

Decreasing stitches 32, 33, 35 Joining yarn 61

Double crochet 12, 60 L Lace hook 58

Double sheet bend knot 61 M Magic circle technique 44, 46

Double treble crochet 15 Making motifs 42

E Edging 38, 40, 41 Materials 57

End yarn tails 60 Motifs 50

F Fastening off 47 P Patterns, often-used crochet 21–29

Filet crochet 22 Picking up stitches from the foundation chain 7

Filled patterns using filet crochet 23 Pick up stitch from back loop 7

Finishing neatly (flat seaming) 47 Pick up stitch from front loop 7

Front posting (using double crochet) 28 Pick up stitch under both loops of 7
foundation chain
H Half double crochet 10 Picot crochet 38

62
 Plain net stitch 21, 60 Triple treble crochet 14

Plastic rings 49, 59 Twisted single crochet (twisted edging) 41

Popcorn stitch 26 V Vinyl rings 49, 59

Popcorn stitch (using double crochet) 26 W Weaving in ends 60

Puff stitch 24 Whipstitch 36

Puff stitch (using double crochet) 24 Whipstitch method of joining 37

Puff stitch (using half double crochet) 25 Whipstitch method of joining (motifs) 50

Puff stitch on a chain stitch 25 Whipstitch method of seaming 36

Pull-through knot 61 Working in rounds 43

R Relief stitch (posting) 28 Working in the round 18

Reverse single crochet 40 Wrapping both loops of a stitch 51

Ring technique 49 Wrapping one loop only 50

Round 2 using a turning chain 45 Y Yarn 57

Round 2 without a turning chain (spiral) 45 Yarn needles 59

S Seaming 36 Yarn scissors 59

Sheet bend knot 61

Single-chain technique 43

Single crochet 8

Single crochet join (single crochet and 54

chain stitch)

Single decrease at the beginning of a row 35

Skeins 57

Skipping stitches 33

Slipknot 6

Slip stitch 16

Slip stitch cord 17

T Threading the needle 59

Tools 58

63
First published in the United States of America in 2014 by Chronicle Books LLC.
First published in Japan in 2011 as Kihon No Amikata Ga Wakaru Hon Hajimemashite No Kagibari
Kyoshitsu by EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION BUNKA GAKUEN BUNKA PUBLISHING BUREAU.

Text copyright © 2011 by EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION BUNKA GAKUEN BUNKA PUBLISHING BUREAU.
Illustration copyright © 2011 by Nakaniwa Rockett.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without written
permission from the publisher. English language rights arranged with EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
BUNKA GAKUEN BUNKA PUBLISHING BUREAU through Toppan Printing Co., Ltd.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available.

,6%1SE
,6%1HSXEPREL

BUNKA PUBLISHING BUREAU Credits:

Publisher: Sunao Onuma
Designer: Gen Watanabe
Illustrator: Nakaniwa Rockett
Copyeditor: Haruyo Yamada
Copyediting Collaborator: Akiko Seino
Proofreader: Masako Mukai
Editor:Yoko Osawa (BUNKA PUBLISHING BUREAU)

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