If you are new to crochet, you may be wondering what is a starting chain. The starting chain is a fundamental part of crochet that all crocheters need to know. Below, I will discuss the basics on how to start crochet chain, including tips for making the perfect chain, as well as step-by-step instructions.
What is a Crochet Chain?
A crochet chain is also referred to as the foundation chain and base chain. It is a series of interlocking loops. The starting chain is the foundation of a crochet project. It is created by pulling yarn through a loop on the crochet hook, then pulling another loop through the first loop.
You repeat the process until you have the number of chains required by the project.
What Types of Projects Use a Crochet Chain?
Starting chain crochet stitches are used in a variety of crochet projects. Some of these include:
- Clothing
- Home Decor
- Blankets
- Accessories
- Scarves
- Hats
- Shawls
- and More
How to start a Crochet Chain
To make basic starting chain stitch crochet, follow these steps:
- Start crochet chain by making a slip knot. To do this, fold your yarn into a loop, leaving a tail of about 6 inches. Insert your hook into the loop from the front to the back. Grab the yarn, attached to the ball, and pulling it through the loop. Pull on both ends of the yarn to tighten the slip knot.
- Yarn over and pull the loop through the slip knot. This creates your first chain stitch.
- To make additional chains, yarn over and pull the loop through the previous chain stitch.
- Continue making chain stitches until you reach the number designated by your pattern.
Follow the tips in the video to create the perfect starting chain. You’ll learn about how to hold your hook and yarn, how to make a slip knot and some simple chain stitches.
How to Tell the Front from the Back of a Crochet Chain
In crochet, the front and back of a starting chain look slightly different. If you are new to crochet, you may have a difficult time telling them apart. However, once you know the differences, you will have no problem.
The front of the starting chain is smooth, with V-shaped stitches. The back of a starting chain also has bumps or ridges that run along the center of the chain. They are located between the V-shaped stitches.
To distinguish the front from the back of your starting chain, simply look at the chain from different angles and compare the two sides. The smooth side is the front, and the bumpy side is the back.
Tips For Making the Perfect Crochet Chain Stitch
Having smooth and even starting chain crochet stitches is important to the outcome of your crochet project. This is because the chain sets the foundation for your entire project. If your starting chain crochet stitches are uneven or twisted, this affect the overall appearance.
Here are some tips for making perfect starting chain crochet stitches:
- Use the right size hook for the yarn you are using.
- Relax your grip on the hook to create even tension.
- Avoid void making the chain too tight or too loose.
- Make all the chains the same size.
- Count your stitches as you go.
- Practice regularly to improve your technique and tension.
Frequently Asked Questions about Starting Crochet Chain
What kind of yarn and hook should I use for my crochet chain?
The type of yarn and crochet hook size you need for your crochet chain will depend on the project you are making. The pattern will often state what you should use.
Using the correct yarn and hook will help ensure that your final project turns out the right size and shape.
How do I know how many chains to make for my project?
The number of chains you need to make will depend on the pattern you are working on. The pattern should indicate the number of chains required for the project.
It is important to follow the pattern’s recommended number of chains to ensure that your project turns out correctly.
Why do my chains keep twisting or curling?
The most common reason why chains twist or curl is due to tension issues. If you pull too tightly on the yarn, the chain will twist and curl. Having a combination of tight and loose stitches will also cause issues.
To avoid twisting, try to keep a consistent tension as you work and make the stitches all the same size. Additionally, using the wrong type of yarn or hook size for your pattern can also cause your chain to twist. Here’s a tutorial on how to avoid twists in your crochet starting chain.
How do I keep my crochet chain even and consistent?
To keep your crochet chain even and consistent, maintain a constant tension. You can do this by holding your yarn and hook in a comfortable, yet firm grip.
If you are having trouble with your tension, practice making foundation chain until you find the technique that works for you.
What size crochet hook should I use for my starting chain?
The size of the crochet hook you should use for your starting chain should be indicated on the pattern. The hook size depends on the weight and thickness of your yarn.
If in doubt, check the yarn label. It should have a recommended hook size, which is a good starting point.
How tight or loose should my starting chain be?
In general, your starting chain crochet stitches should not be too tight or too loose. They should be just slightly looser than regular crochet stitches. If they are too tight, it can be hard to work into the stitches.
This can result in a stiff finished project. On the other hand, loose stitches can result in a floppy finished project.
Learning how to start crochet chain is a very important piece of a crochet project
While learning how to make consistent starting chain crochet stitches may seem daunting at first, with practice and patience, you can master the technique.
If you are looking to learn how to crochet and get started, we recommend the excellent class “Crochet Basics and Beyond” with Kim Werker. It would also benefit you to learn crochet abbreviations as well as what frogging yarn means as you will surely encounter them in your crocheting journey.
With so many different projects, the possibilities for what you can create with the starting crochet chain are endless. Whether you want to make a cosy scarf, a stylish hat, or a large blanket, knowing how to start crochet chain stitches is the essential first step.
