This page is a quick-reference hub for core crochet skills. Use it to find help with starting, stitching, shaping, joining, finishing, reading patterns, and fixing common problems.
Starting Crochet
Basic techniques for beginning a project.
- Slip Knot
- Foundation Chain
- Foundation Stitches (FSC, FDC)
- Magic Circle
Understanding Stitches
Learn the structure of a stitch and where to place your hook.
- Parts of a Stitch
- Where to Insert Your Hook
- FLO vs BLO
- Yarn Over vs Yarn Under
- Post Stitches
Working Flat
Help with rows, turning, counting, and keeping edges straight.
- How to Turn Your Work
- Turning Chains
- Counting Stitches
- Keeping Straight Edges
- Common Row Mistakes
Working in the Round
Techniques for joined rounds, continuous rounds, and round shaping.
- Joined vs Continuous Rounds
- How to Join a Round
- Using Stitch Markers
- Keeping Track of Rounds
- How to Keep Circles Flat
Shaping
Use increases and decreases to change the size and form of your fabric.
- How to Increase
- How to Decrease
- Invisible Decrease
Joining Yarn & Changing Colors
Techniques for adding yarn and changing colors neatly.
- How to Join New Yarn with a Slip Stitch
- How to Change Colors
- Carrying Yarn
- Clean Color Changes
Finishing
Clean up and complete your project.
- Fastening Off
- Weaving in Ends
- Invisible Join
- Joining Pieces
- Blocking
Reading Patterns & Terms
Learn how to understand written instructions and common crochet terms.
- How to Read a Crochet Pattern
- Common Abbreviations
- Repeats & Symbols
- US vs UK Crochet Terms
Tension & Gauge
Understand how stitch tension and gauge affect your project.
- What Is Tension?
- How to Adjust Tension
- What Is Gauge?
Troubleshooting
Fix common crochet problems.
- Too Tight or Too Loose
- Uneven Edges
- Wrong Stitch Count
- Curling or Warping Fabric