How To Crochet A Foundation Chain & Chain Stitch

If you're new to crochet, the foundation chain and chain stitch are the first steps to creating beautiful projects.

These are the basic building blocks for every crochet pattern, and once you’ve mastered them, you’ll be able to create anything from scarves to blankets, and even toys! 

In this beginner tutorial, I’ll walk you through how to crochet both the foundation chain and the chain stitch, so you can get started on your crochet journey.

 

The Importance of the Foundation Chain and Chain Stitch

The foundation chain is the very first row of stitches you make at the beginning of a crochet project. It creates the base for the rest of your work, and learning how to make a foundation chain correctly is essential to ensuring your project starts off smoothly.

The chain stitch is the most basic crochet stitch and is the one you will use to create the foundation chain. It’s quick and easy, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to crochet faster and more efficiently. You’ll also use chain stitches throughout your projects, like when turning your work or creating spaces between stitches.

 

Where You Will Use the Foundation Chain and Chain Stitch

• Foundation chain: Used at the beginning of most crochet projects to start the base. This is how you’ll start blankets, scarves, shawls, and more.
• Chain stitch: Used throughout your project for turning, adding spaces between stitches, and sometimes to form intricate lace patterns or designs.

These two stitches are the backbone of many crochet patterns, and once you’re familiar with them, you can start tackling a variety of projects!

Instructions

How to Make a Foundation Chain

1. Create a slip knot: Make a loop with your yarn and pull the working yarn through to create a slip knot. Place it on your hook.
2. Start your chain: Yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook) and pull it through the loop on your hook. That’s one chain stitch!
3. Continue chaining: Repeat this process for the number of chains you need for your project. Each new yarn over and pull-through creates another chain stitch.
4. Check your tension: Make sure your chain stitches are even and not too tight or too loose. Your foundation chain should be flexible but not stretchy.

 

How to Crochet a Chain Stitch

1. Create a slip knot and place it on your hook, as mentioned above.
2. Yarn over: Wrap the yarn around the hook.
3. Pull through: Pull the yarn through the loop on the hook. You’ve now completed your first chain stitch!
4. Continue: Repeat the yarn over and pull-through steps until you reach the desired length for your chain.

Video Tutorial

 

Conclusion

The foundation chain and chain stitch are essential skills for every crocheter, and once you’ve mastered them, you'll be ready to tackle countless crochet projects. With just a bit of practice, these basic stitches will become second nature, and you’ll be crafting beautiful creations in no time. Happy crocheting, and enjoy your creative journey!