Stitch Dictionary
Every stitch explained — tap any stitch for step-by-step instructions, tips, and usage ideas.
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Basic Stitches
The building blocks of every crochet project
Chain
The foundation of almost every crochet project. A chain is a series of interlocking loops that forms the base row or can be used within stitch patterns.
Slip Stitch
The shortest of all crochet stitches. Used to join rounds, move yarn position, or create a flat seam.
Single Crochet
The most fundamental crochet stitch. Creates a tight, dense fabric perfect for items that need structure.
Half Double Crochet
Slightly taller than single crochet, creating a fabric with more drape. Has a distinctive third loop on top that some patterns use.
Double Crochet
One of the most popular stitches. Twice the height of single crochet, creating an open, drapey fabric that works up quickly.
Treble Crochet
A tall stitch that creates very open, lacy fabric. Works up quickly but uses more yarn than shorter stitches.
Increases & Decreases
Shape your work — add or remove stitches
Increase
Two stitches worked into the same stitch, adding one stitch to your count. Essential for shaping circles, hats, and amigurumi.
Decrease
Combines two stitches into one, reducing your stitch count. Used for shaping, closing amigurumi, and tapering.
Single Crochet Two Together
The standard single crochet decrease. Joins two adjacent stitches into one to reduce stitch count.
Double Crochet Two Together
A double crochet decrease that joins two stitches into one at the dc height.
Texture Stitches
Post stitches, bobbles, and surface techniques
Front Post Double Crochet
Worked around the post (vertical bar) of the stitch below from the front, creating a raised ridge. Key to cables and ribbing.
Back Post Double Crochet
Worked around the post from the back, creating an indented ridge. Paired with fpdc for ribbing effects.
Bobble Stitch
A cluster of incomplete double crochets worked into the same stitch, then joined at the top. Creates a rounded bump that pops out from the fabric.
Popcorn Stitch
Similar to a bobble but MORE three-dimensional. Complete double crochets are worked in one stitch, then folded and joined at the top.
Puff Stitch
Multiple half double crochets worked into the same stitch but joined at the top. Softer and rounder than bobbles.
Decorative Stitches
Shells, fans, and eye-catching patterns
Shell Stitch
Multiple stitches (usually 5 dc) worked into the same stitch, creating a fan or shell shape. One of the most beautiful and versatile stitch patterns.
V-Stitch
Two double crochets with a chain space between them, worked into the same stitch. Creates an open, lacy V shape.
Granny Stitch
Groups of 3 double crochets separated by chain spaces. The foundation of the iconic granny square.
Picot
A small decorative bump created by chaining 3 and slip stitching back into the base. Adds a delicate finishing touch to edges.
Star Stitch
Creates a beautiful star or daisy pattern by pulling up loops through multiple points and joining them together.
Specialty Techniques
Special methods and stitch modifications
Magic Ring
An adjustable starting ring that can be pulled tight to close the center hole. Essential for amigurumi and anything worked in the round.
Back Loop Only
Working through only the back loop of a stitch instead of both loops. Creates a ridged texture and more stretchy fabric.
Front Loop Only
Working through only the front loop of a stitch. Creates a ridge on the opposite side from BLO.
Spike Stitch
A single crochet worked into a stitch one or more rows below the current row, creating a long vertical stitch that spans multiple rows.
Cross Stitch
Two double crochets that cross over each other, creating an X pattern. Adds visual interest with minimal complexity.
Waffle Stitch
Alternating front and back post double crochets to create a grid of raised squares that look like a waffle. Thick, cozy, and deeply textured.