Almost every crochet pattern is a rearrangement of a handful of stitches. Once these six feel automatic in your hands, you can read most patterns on sight.
1. Chain (ch)
The foundation of nearly everything. Keep chains loose and even — a tight foundation chain is the most common reason a first project pulls in at the bottom.
2. Slip stitch (sl st)
The shortest stitch there is. It joins rounds, travels across stitches without adding height, and makes a tidy seam.
3. Single crochet (sc)
Dense, sturdy, and slightly stiff. Perfect for amigurumi, baskets and bag bodies where you don’t want gaps.
4. Half double crochet (hdc)
The quiet favourite: taller than sc, softer than dc, with a lovely squishy texture for hats and scarves.
5. Double crochet (dc)
Fast and airy. Most blankets and shawls lean on dc because it covers ground quickly and drapes well.
6. Treble crochet (tr)
Very tall and open. Use it for lace, mesh and dramatic shell stitches.