The slip stitch is one of the simplest yet most versatile stitches in crochet, and learning it is an absolute must for any crocheter! Whether you’re joining pieces together, finishing off an edge, or adding a neat detail to your project, the slip stitch is a handy technique you’ll use time and time again.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make a slip stitch, so you can add it to your crochet skill set with ease. Don’t worry — this short stitch is super simple, perfect for beginners first learning how to crochet. So grab your hook and yarn, and let’s get started!
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a small commission which helps us run this website.
How to Slip Stitch in Crochet
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn (or other yarn type)
Equipment:
Watch the step-by-step video tutorial:
Instructions:
How to slip stitch into a chain:
- Begin with a foundation to add your stitches into.We made a slip knot and chains here, but you can also create a magic circle.
- Use your non-dominant hand to hold the chains close to the hook.Insert your hook into the chain you want to add the stitch into.
- Wrap the working yarn around your hook, going counter-clockwise around the hook.This is called a “yarn over”.
- Guide the top part of the hook and the working yarn back through the same stitch.
- Pull the hook (with the working yarn) through the loop on your hook.(Generally the last step and this one will be all one motion, pulling the working yarn through the chain and loop at the same time.)Your slip stitch is complete!
How to slip stitch to join a round:
- The slip stitch can also be used to close a round. Begin by making a magic circle and inserting the stitches around that your pattern requires.
- Insert your hook into the top of the first stitch of the round.You’ll want to go through both top loops, unless your pattern says otherwise.
- Wrap the yarn counter-clockwise around your hook (also known as “yarn over”).
- Pull the hook with the working yarn back through the stitch.
- Pull the hook (and working yarn) through the loop on your hook.(The last step and this one should be all one motion.)
- You’ve now used a slip stitch to join your round together!The loop on your hook will be the starting point of the first stitch in the next round.
Helpful Tips:
- Slip stitch is abbreviated as either “sl st” or “ss” in crochet patterns. It’s the same stitch in both US and UK patterns.
- The slip stitch is the shortest of all crochet stitches.
- When you’re working a slip stitch into stitches (rather than chains), make sure you insert your hook through both of the top loops, unless the pattern states otherwise.
How to slip stitch crochet:
Follow along with our video tutorial or our written step-by-step tutorial above for detailed instructions on how to make a slip stitch. Or, to put it more simply:
- Insert your crochet hook into a chain or stitch
- Yarn over
- Pull the hook (and working yarn) through the chain or stitch and the loop on your hook.
What is a slip stitch used for in crochet?
A slip stitch is one of the most versatile stitches in crochet. You can use it to:
- Close off a joined round
- Finish off projects with a neat edge
- Move across stitches without adding height
- Sew 2 edges together
- Decorate the surface of crochet fabric
Can I use a slip stitch to create patterns or textures?
Yes! Slip stitches can be used creatively to add texture or create unique patterns. For example, slip stitching across the surface of your work can create raised designs in a different colour.
You can also use slip stitches in rows to make a tight, decorative fabric. It’s a great way to add detail or embellishment to your crochet projects.
The slip stitch may be simple, but it’s an incredibly useful technique that opens the door to so many creative possibilities in crochet. However you use it, this stitch is a staple that you’ll come back to time and again.
And with a little practice, this basic crochet stitch will become second nature. You’ll love how it adds finesse and versatility to your work. Happy crocheting!
Here’s even more fun crochet ideas:
Our book Low-Mess Crafts for Kids is loaded with 72 fun and simple craft ideas for kids! The projects are fun, easy and most importantly low-mess, so the clean up is simple!
Where to buy:
You can purchase Low-Mess Crafts for Kids from Amazon, or wherever books are sold:
Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million | Indiebound | Amazon Canada
Leave a Reply