How to start a Chain with Single Crochet in 3 different ways

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This is a free crochet tutorial for three different ways to start a chain with single crochet. The tutorial contains photos and videos.

Imagine it. You have a project that you have been excited to make, and today’s the day! But wait. How should you start it? There are so many different techniques you could use to begin. Is one better than another? How do you know which one is right for you or for your project? Is there another method out there that you would like better?

Look no further. This tutorial details three ways to begin using a row of single crochet. Please read below for the complete tutorial.

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How to start a chain with a row of single crochet in three ways - Crochet Tutorial by Nicki's Homemade Crafts

Most crocheters, unless you are a beginner, know how to do a chain and a single crochet as the first row. If you are a beginner, check out my beginner post on how to start to crochet HERE. For those of you have have done a chain and a row of single crochet, did you know there are 3 ways to start a chain and crochet a row of single crochets?

Well, in this tutorial, I will explain to you step-by-step those 3 ways. For those of you who already know them, please share this link on social media for others to know. But they are all really easy. In fact, I added a complete video tutorial below as well. So, in case the photos are not helpful, be sure to check out the video also.

Ok, so let’s get started. The three ways to start a chain with single crochets are 1. you make a chain and then make your single crochet in one loop which is usually the back loop of the chain, 2. you make a chainless foundation chain where you create the chain and the first row of single crochet at the same time, 3. you crochet your single crochets into the back bump of the chains which is actually my most favorite way to do.

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Here are the detailed instructions:

1. Make a chain and single crochet into one loop which is usually the back loop

The reason I do not prefer this method, is because the bottom of the chain does not look as neat as the other 2 methods show. If you try out any of the other 2 methods you will see what I mean by it.

2. Chainless foundation chain

This method can be tricky for some crocheters, but easy for others. The best part of this technique is that is faster than the other two, because you are creating the chain at the same time as you are creating the first row of single crochets. To get a more detailed tutorial and learn how to do it for half double crochets, double crochets, and treble crochets, please click HERE.

3. Crocheting single crochets into the back bump of the chain

This technique is actually my favorite one as it creates a very neat and great looking chain plus first row of single crochets. The V’s are shown nicely on the bottom and look therefore identical to the top, which means you can turn your project any way you like and you won’t know on the first look where the top and where the bottom is. Furthermore, it makes it easier to crochet an edge around it when there is nice V’s to show.