If you’re new to crochet, one of the first things you’ll need to learn is starting a chain in crochet. The foundation chain is the base of most crochet projects, so mastering this technique is essential for beginners. In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to make your chains even and smooth. Plus, I’ve included a video tutorial to help you visualize the process!

What is a Crochet Chain?

A crochet chain (also called a foundation chain) is the starting row of stitches that acts as the base for your project. Every stitch in crochet is built on top of this foundation, so getting it right is key to a successful project.

In a pattern, a chain is abbreviated as “ch”.

How to Start a Chain in Crochet: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Make a Slip Knot

Before you can start chaining, you need to make a slip knot on your hook. If you’re unsure how, check out my tutorial on how to make a crochet slip knot.

Step 2: Hold Your Yarn and Hook

• Hold the crochet hook in your dominant hand.
• Use your other hand to control the working yarn (the part connected to the skein).
• Wrap the yarn around your fingers for tension control.

Step 3: Yarn Over (YO)

Wrap the yarn over your hook from back to front. This is called a yarn over and is the motion used to create stitches.

Step 4: Pull Through

With the yarn over, pull the yarn through the loop on your hook. Congratulations! You’ve made your first chain stitch.

Step 5: Repeat

Continue yarning over and pulling through to create as many chain stitches as your pattern calls for.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

✅ Chains Too Tight? Try loosening your grip on the yarn and hook. You should be able to slide your hook through the loops easily.
✅ Chains Too Loose? If your stitches are inconsistent, practice keeping even tension on your yarn.
✅ Skipping Chains? Count your chains carefully to make sure you have the correct number before moving on to the next row.

Tips for a Perfect Foundation Chain

• Use a larger hook than your project requires if you tend to crochet tightly.
• Keep your tension even by practicing slowly.
• Count your stitches as you go to avoid missing any.
• If your project calls for turning chains, don’t forget to add them at the end of your foundation chain.

Watch the Video Tutorial!

If you’re a visual learner, check out my step-by-step video tutorial on starting a chain in crochet. I’ll show you exactly how to hold your yarn, create chain stitches, and avoid common mistakes.

An Alternative Technique To the Traditional Crochet Chain

I’m not afraid to admit that I am NOT A FAN of crochet into a chain. Fortunately, there is an alternative. The chainless foundation allows you to make your chain AND your first row of crochet at the same time. REVOLUTIONARY. If you want to give it a go, you can watch my video tutorial on how to do that here.

Crocheting Into the Back Bump of the Chain

I would be remiss not to mention that I have a video tutorial on how to crochet into the back bump of a chain (versus the front top loop) which creates a MUCH nicer, neater, tighter first row.

Crocheting into the back bump creates a first row that meshes well with the rest of your project and avoids all the terrible gaps that can be created in your first row when crocheting into the top loop of the chain. So if you aren’t super stoked about learning the chainless foundation, I would at least encourage you to become comfortable with crocheting into the back bump. Or, at least, give it a try and decide for yourself!

Mastering the crochet chain is the first step to making beautiful crochet projects! Let me know in the comments—what’s the first project you’re making with your foundation chain?