How to crochet for beginners: chain and double crochet (UK terms)
Learn the slip knot, chain and double crochet, the building blocks of most patterns, and how to tell UK from US terms so you don't get muddled.
- Time
- 1 to 2 hours to learn
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Cost
- Low cost
- Steps
- 6
- Checked
What you’ll need
- Smooth, light-coloured double knit (DK) yarn Search Amazon for double knit yarn
- Crochet hook to suit the yarn (check the ball band, often 4 mm for DK) Search Amazon for 4mm crochet hook
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle Search Amazon for tapestry needle
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Step by step
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Step 1: Know your terms
UK and US patterns use the same names for different stitches. The UK double crochet (dc) is the US single crochet (sc), and the UK treble (tr) is the US double. If a pattern mentions "single crochet", it's in US terms. This guide uses UK terms.
Next: step 2 -
Step 2: Make a slip knot
Make a loop near the end of the yarn, pull a loop of the ball end through it, put it on the hook and gently tighten.
Next: step 3 -
Step 3: Make a chain (ch)
Hold the hook in your right hand and the yarn over your left forefinger. Wrap the yarn over the hook from back to front ("yarn over") and pull it through the loop on the hook. That's one chain. Make 15 to 20 to practise, keeping them even.
Next: step 4 -
Step 4: Double crochet into the chain
Skip the first chain next to the hook. Insert the hook into the next chain, yarn over and pull a loop through (two loops on the hook). Yarn over again and pull through both loops. That's one double crochet. Repeat in each chain to the end.
Next: step 5 -
Step 5: Turn and work the next row
Make 1 chain (the turning chain for double crochet), turn your work, then double crochet into each stitch of the row below, going under both top loops. Keep going for a few rows to make a practice square.
Next: step 6 -
Step 6: Fasten off
Cut the yarn leaving 15 cm, yarn over and pull the tail right through the last loop. Weave the ends in with a tapestry needle.
Tips
- Count your stitches at the end of each row so edges stay straight.
- Practise with a light, smooth yarn: dark or fluffy yarn hides the stitches.
Questions people ask
Is crochet easier than knitting?
Many people find it quicker to learn because there's only one live loop at a time.
What do I make first?
A dishcloth, coaster or simple scarf in double crochet is a great first project.
Sources
Checked 9 October 2026. We wrote this guide in our own words, using:
- Easy Crochet: UK to US crochet terms (easycrochet.com)
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Printed from howtoguides.uk/guides/how-to-crochet-for-beginners/ · Checked 9 October 2026 · General information only. For gas, electrics, structural work, medical, legal or money decisions, use a qualified professional.