How to Make a Slip Knot and Your First Chain Stitch

Getting Started with Crochet

Every crochet project begins with two simple techniques: the slip knot and the chain stitch. Don't worry if you've never picked up a hook before—these skills are easier than they look!

Making Your Slip Knot

Start by creating a loop with your yarn, leaving about a 6-inch tail. Insert your hook through the loop, catch the working yarn (the yarn attached to your ball), and pull it through. Gently tighten by pulling both ends—not too tight, just snug enough that it won't slide off your hook.

Your First Chain Stitch

With your slip knot on the hook, wrap the yarn over your hook from back to front (this is called a yarn over). Pull the yarn through the loop already on your hook. Congratulations—you've made one chain stitch!

Keep repeating this motion: yarn over, pull through. Try to maintain even tension so your chains are consistent in size. It's normal for your first chains to look uneven—that's part of learning.

Practice Makes Progress

Make a chain of 20 stitches, then start over. The more you practice, the more natural the motion becomes. Soon you'll be chaining without even thinking about it!