Chain (ch)

Chains form the foundation of rows and give height at beginnings.

Chain stitch animation
Animated chain stitch. Public domain via Wikimedia Commons.

Yarn over (yo) the hook from back to front.

Chain stitch animation shows repeated yarn overs.
Chain stitch animation shows repeated yarn overs.

Pull the yarn through the loop on the hook — you’ve made 1 chain.

Hook angle entering the chain.
Hook angle entering the chain.

Repeat to your desired length. Keep even tension.

Practice smooth, even loops.
Practice smooth, even loops.

Quick loops

Video: starting a chain (2008, Own work).

Next: Single Crochet (sc)

Diagram steps (chain)

Chain step 1 Chain step 2 Chain step 3 Chain step 4

More video demos

Chain tutorial (2025 project)
Step 1: How to make a chain (silent)