Crocheting a Chain

Welcome to one of the first steps of learning to crochet.

Making a chain.

In this article I will give you easy, clear steps to follow to make your first crochet chain.

Lots of patterns will start with a chain. Either as the beginning of your Magic Circle or to form a ring.

You will also find crocheting a chain creeping into the structural part of your blankets and toys.

Crochet Chain Tips

When starting out with crochet, it’s a good idea to do everything you can to make it as easy as possible.

The simpler this skill is to pick up, the more inclined you will feel to continue and advance in your work.

Here are some little tips for those intial projects:

Start by picking a hook that is relatively nice to hold and easy to work with – somewhere between 5mm and 6.5mm is probably the best for beginners.
Use a yarn that is bright in colour, so that you can clearly see your individual stitches.
Pick a yarn type that is not too thin and breakable (some cheap wools come apart if you pull too hard on them), nor too thick and hard to pull with the hook. I recommend the Womens Institute yarns as a good brand for starting out.
Make sure to hold your yarn firmly as you work, to give consistent stitch sizes.

Here is a short video, showing the method for making a simple chain:

To help you follow the above video, here are some written instructions to clarify each step of the way.

1. Make your initial loop

2. Take your first finger of your left hand, and wind your yarn around it twice.

3. Pull the back loop over the front loop, then the front (now back) over and off the end of your finger.

4. Slip your loop over the hook.

5. Pull tight.

6. Loop your yarn over the end of the hook.

7. Pull the yarn through

Congratulations – you have made your first chain!

This is the basis of a lot of crochet patterns, and you will find it a helpful technique as you advance.

Why not let us know how you got along, by leaving a message in the comments box below: