Remember my first attempt at crochet? I grabbed a hook and yarn, watched a 30-second tutorial, and ended up with something resembling a knotted spiderweb. Turns out, nobody tells you the secret: how to begin crochet chain properly makes or breaks everything. After teaching hundreds of beginners, I'll show you what most tutorials skip.
Gathering Your Toolkit (No Fancy Supplies Needed)
Don't waste money on expensive kits. When starting crochet chain basics, you really need just three things:
- Yarn (Medium weight #4): Avoid dark colors or fuzzy textures. Red Heart Super Saver in "Aran" is my go-to for beginners.
- Crochet Hook (Size H/5mm): Aluminum hooks glide smoother than plastic for new hands.
- Scissors: Any sharp pair will do – mine are kitchen scissors!
| Item | Beginner Recommendation | Price Range | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yarn | Lion Brand Basic Stitch Anti-Pilling (Light Blue) | $5-$8 per skein | Michaels, Joann, Walmart |
| Hooks | Susan Bates Silvalume 5mm | $3-$5 per hook | Amazon, local craft stores |
| Extras | Clover Lock Ring Markers (set of 10) | $4 | Joann (use 40% off coupon) |
Personal Fail Alert: I bought a "beginner wool blend" my first time – worst $12 ever spent. Stick with acrylic until you're comfortable. Wool sticks to itself and shows every mistake.
The Actual Process: Starting Your Foundation Chain
Let's get tactile. Learning how to begin a crochet chain isn't about perfection – it's about muscle memory. Follow these steps slowly:
Making the Slip Knot (The Silent Starter)
1. Drape yarn over index finger, tail end toward you
2. Loop working yarn under to form an X
3. Pinch X, pull top loop through bottom opening
4. Tighten gently on hook – should slide smoothly
See that knot sliding freely? That's your green light. If it chokes the hook, undo and restart. Many chain stitch how-tos rush this step!
The Chain Stitch Breakdown
Hold hook pencil-style if it feels natural. I teach knife grip later. For starting crochet chain:
1. With slip knot on hook, yarn over from back to front
2. Catch yarn with hook tip (turn hook slightly downward)
3. Pull caught yarn through existing loop
4. Don't tug! Just snug it to hook diameter
Yarn tension trick: Let yarn drape over pinky, under ring/middle fingers, over index. Sounds complicated but prevents "death grip" syndrome.
| Common Mistake | How to Spot It | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Twisted chains | Chain curls like pig's tail | Rotate wrist slightly outward with each stitch |
| Uneven tension | Some loops tight, others loose | Consistent finger pressure on working yarn |
| Stitches too tight | Hook struggles to enter loops | Relax shoulders, exhale while stitching |
Beyond Basics: Chain Stitch Variations
Once you've mastered beginning crochet chain fundamentals, try these textures:
Foundation Single Crochet (FSC)
Why it rocks: Eliminates wobbly starting chains
How-to: Chain 2, insert hook in first chain, yarn over pull up loop (2 loops on hook), yarn over pull through both loops
Linked Chains
Why it rocks: Creates decorative braided effect
How-to: After each chain, insert hook into previous stitch's back bump before yarning over
FAQ: Real Questions from My Workshops
Why does my starting chain look tighter than the rest?
You're unconsciously gripping the starting tail. Try this: After making slip knot, hold both yarn ends together for first 5 stitches. Releases tension.
How many chains for common projects?
| Project | Starting Chains | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Scarf | 20-30 chains | Width depends on yarn thickness |
| Dishcloth | 25 chains | Use cotton yarn |
| Headband | 8 chains | Join with slip stitch to form ring |
Why do my chains unravel when I set hook down?
You're missing the friction point. Before stopping, pull working yarn through last loop to create temporary knot. Or invest in ergonomic hooks with silicone grips.
Troubleshooting Nightmares (And Fixes)
| Problem | Diagnosis | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Increasing stitches | Accidental yarn overs | Keep thumb on last stitch while yarning over |
| Holes between chains | Yarn held too loosely | Wrap yarn around pinky twice before tensioning |
| Crooked chains | Uneven pulling motion | Pull new loops toward yourself not sideways |
Confession: I spent 3 months making chains that looked like rollercoasters before realizing my wrist position was off. If it feels awkward, change your posture!
Next Steps After Mastering Chains
Learning how to begin crochet chain stitches is just your launchpad. Try these projects:
- Fringe Bookmarks: Chain 15, turn, skip first chain, single crochet in remaining 14 chains
- Simple Headbands: Chain 80 with bulky yarn, join ends, slip stitch through whole chain
- Practice Swatches: Chain 20, work 10 rows of single crochet (measure progress!)
My first successful chain became a cat toy. Now I design chain-stitch jewelry. Progress happens when you move past "how to begin crochet chain" anxiety and just play. Got questions? Find me on Instagram @chainqueen – I answer every DM!
Leave a Comments