How to Crochet a Chain Stitch (ch) for Beginners

The chain stitch, written as ch in crochet patterns, is one of the first stitches you need to learn.

It is used at the start of many crochet projects, including baby blankets, appliqués, borders, and simple rows.

What You Need

• Yarn
• Crochet hook
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in the tail later

For beginners, use a yarn and hook that feel comfortable in your hands.

Step 1: Make a Slip Knot

Start by leaving a yarn tail of about 6 inches. This makes it easier to weave in later.

Wrap the yarn around your finger to make a loop. Pull the tail through the loop, then gently tighten it.

Place the loop onto your crochet hook. Pull the yarn slightly so the loop sits on the hook, but do not make it too tight.

The loop should still slide easily on the hook.

Step 2: Hold Your Hook and Yarn

Hold the crochet hook in your dominant hand.

With your other hand, hold the working yarn. The working yarn is the yarn attached to the ball.

Keep the loop on your hook loose enough to move. This will help your chain stitches stay even.

Step 3: Yarn Over

Move your hook under the working yarn and catch the yarn with the hook.

This is called a yarn over.

Turn the hook slightly downward so the yarn stays on the hook.

Step 4: Pull Through the Loop

Pull the yarn through the loop already on your hook.

You have now made your first chain stitch.

Move the new loop back onto the wider part of the hook. This helps keep the stitch from becoming too tight.

Step 5: Keep Chaining

Repeat the same movement:

Yarn over, pull through the loop.

Each time you do this, one new chain stitch is made.

As your chain grows, move your fingers closer to the top of the chain. This gives you better control and keeps your stitches neat.

Beginner Tip

Try not to pull the yarn too tight.

If your chain is too tight, it will be hard to crochet into later. Aim for soft, even loops that are easy to see.

What Does “ch” Mean in a Pattern?

In crochet patterns, ch means chain.

For example: ch 10 means: make 10 chain stitches.

Final Thoughts

The chain stitch is simple, but very important. Once you learn it, you can start many beginner crochet projects, from baby blankets to cute woodland appliqués.

Practice slowly at first. With a little repetition, the movement will start to feel natural.