An important note to remember is that there are two different types of crochet terminology:
US and UK.
In this Libguide we are using US terminology. If you come across a pattern that doesn't seem to make sense, check the terminology the author is using, you may need to convert it to the terminology you are familiar with.
This is a conversion chart:
Table sourced from Crafting Happiness
Most crochet patterns are built with the same basic stitches. These are Single Crochet, Double Crochet and and Slip Stitch.
Click on the tabs below to learn how!
How to crochet a slip stitch
The slip stitch is the smallest of the basic crochet stitches. It is abbreviated sl st and this is useful to know when reading a pattern.
Video sourced from Crochet Guru
This is the symbol on a pattern diagram for a slip stitch (ss) in both US and UK terminology
Single Crochet stitch
Learn how to single crochet stitch. The single crochet (sc) is the most common stitch used and very easy to learn.
Video sourced from Crochet Guru
This is the symbol on a pattern diagram for the single crochet (sc) or in UK terminology this is a double crochet.
How to half double crochet
The half double is different because its height lands between the double and single crochet. Another difference is that you draw through all three loops on your hook instead of only two at a time.
Video sourced from Crochet Guru
This is the symbol on a pattern diagram for a half double crochet (hdc) or in UK terminology this is called a half treble crochet.
Beginner Crochet Basics - How to Double Crochet
Introduction to learning to Double Crochet
Video Sourced from Melanie Ham
This is the symbol on a pattern diagram for a double crochet (dc) or in UK terminology this is a treble.
How to treble crochet (tr)
How to make a treble crochet stitch.
Video sourced from Bernat Yarn
This is the symbol in a pattern diagram for a Treble crochet (tr) or in UK terminology this is called a double treble crochet.
Double treble crochet stitch (dtr)
Learn how to crochet the double treble crochet stitch, or dtr with this easy tutorial!
Video sourced from Fibre Flux
This is the symbol on a pattern diagram for a double treble crochet (dtr) or in UK terminology a triple treble crochet.
If you are left handed, you would hold your hook in your left hand. Below are two simple videos for the chain stitch and then the single crochet stitch. Once you have mastered these you should be able to use any pattern!
In this episode you will learn; What you need to get started, How to prepare you yarn, How to make a slip knot, How to hold your hook and yarn, How to chain stitch.
Video sourced from Bella Coco Crochet
Once you are ready to embark on some more challenging projects, there are lots of variations of stitches you can use. Don't be nervous, they are all very similar to the basic stitches and with a little practice you will find them pretty easy to include in your work!
Tunisian crochet basics - 3 must know stitches for beginners
Think of Tunisian crochet like it's own craft; a hybrid between knitting and crochet. With it you can create stitches that look like crochet, and you can create stitches that look like knitting, but you can also create completely unique stitches. Here are three stitches you should know.
Video sourced from B.Hooked Crochet
How to crochet the thermal stitch
The Thermal Stitch is one of the thickest, sturdiest, and warmest crochet stitches we can make. Learn how to crochet the thermal stitch using this video tutorial.
Video sourced from Hook Heart Home
How to work the Half Double Crochet stitch
Learn how to work the half double crochet stitch with this easy tutorial!'
Video sourced from Fibre Flux
How to crochet in the back loop only
How to crochet in the Back Loop Only. Step by step tutorial for beginners. This technique applies the same for single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet...when pattern calls for crochet in back loop only. The back loop is the one further away from you.
Video sourced from Pora Pora Crochet
How to crochet in the Front Loops only
Learn how to crochet into the front loops only (flo) with this easy tutorial!
Video sourced from Fibre Flux
This beginner's tutorial will show you how to make a magic circle, a.k.a. magic ring or adjustable loop.
Video sourced from Yarndrasil
How to crochet strawberry stitch
In this tutorial video I'll show you how to crochet the strawberry stitch using a regular crochet hook.
Video sourced from Naztazia
Popcorn - Basic Crochet Stitch
Learn to crochet basic popcorn stitch.
Video sourced from Lyza Walters
There are so many different variations of stitches! Have fun using them in different patterns, and don't be afraid of a pattern with a new stitch, as you can see, YouTube is an amazing place to learn a new stitch. Find your favourite channel and look up their tutorials!