All the stitches you need for every project
WELCOME TO BIG BOOK OF CROCHET STITCHES
Big Book of Crochet Stitches
THE ESSENTIALS
READING CHARTED STITCH DIAGRAMS • Some crocheters find these visual representations of crochet patterns easier to follow than a written-out pattern.
MAKING A FOUNDATION CHAIN • When working in rows to make a piece of flat crocheted fabric, you will need to create a foundation chain to work your first row of stitches into.
WORKING THE CHAIN • It doesn’t matter which method you use as long as you are consistent when moving along the chain. Working under the top loop is the easiest approach for beginners, but it doesn’t create as neat an edge as working under the back bumps. With practice you’ll find the most comfortable method for you.
CHAINLESS FOUNDATIONS • If you’ve got to grips with chains, why not try creating your first row without making any chains first?
DOUBLE CROCHET • Master the basics by learning the simplest stitch.
TREBLE CROCHET • This stitch is twice the size of the single crochet, and worked in a very similar way.
HALF TREBLE CROCHET • It’s less common and sits between double and treble crochet in height, but the half treble is still important.
DOUBLE TREBLE CROCHET • This common stitch is much taller than the treble crochet, and its size allows it to be worked into a piece of fabric fairly quickly.
SLIP STITCH • While rarely used on its own to create a pattern, this versatile stitch is really handy for joining stitches and moving the position of the hook and yarn without adding height.
IDENTIFYING AND COUNTING STITCHES • All crocheted fabric is made up of different kinds of stitches, but learning what those stitches look like on their own is essential to creating your own work.
INCREASING • To increase the number of stitches in a row, simply crochet two or more into the same stitch.
DECREASING • Often worked in conjunction with increases when shaping crochet, decrease stitches reduce the number of stitches in a row.
POST STITCHES • Add texture to your work by using post stitches, which can be worked both in front of and behind the previous row.
LINKED STITCHES • Close up the loose-looking stitches with this simple technique.
JOINING • Finish projects that need joining together with these simple techniques.
GOING FURTHER
GRANNY SQUARES • Create the most recognisable crochet pattern in the world.
GRANNY TRIANGLES • Drop a corner and add an extra stitch to each cluster to create a triangle.
GRANNY STRIPE • Don’t want to make granny squares and stitch them together? Try the same pattern, just in rows instead!
CORNER TO CORNER • This stitch is exactly what it sounds like – you start in one corner of the project and finish in the opposite corner using increases and decreases. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with tutorials for both!
HERRINGBONE • While it might sound fancy, this stitch is actually quite easy. It’s incredibly similar to treble crochet, just with a slight twist, so it’s perfect for beginners looking to take the next step. One of the best things about herringbone is how versatile it is; you can whip up amazing blankets and cushions, as well as wearables like scarves and shawls. It also has the added advantage that because it is just a variation of treble crochet, you can increase and decrease as you normally would. Why not have a go?
MIXED GRIT STITCH • While it works up slowly, the mixed grit stitch creates a dense fabric, making it perfect for scarves to keep out the chill on those cold winter days. It can also make for some stunning blankets, although patience is key as they may take a while to make!
GRANITE STITCH • Looking for...