What Is a Slip Stitch in Crochet
In the world of crochet, the slip stitch is the quiet, indispensable workhorse. It is the shortest and flattest of all the basic crochet stitches, often abbreviated as "sl st" in patterns. Unlike the taller single crochet or double crochet, a slip stitch is created by pulling a loop of yarn through both the loop on your hook and the stitch in your work in one fluid motion. This results in a nearly invisible, low-profile stitch that lies flat against the fabric. Think of it as the crochet equivalent of a gentle nudge rather than a full step; it moves yarn from one point to another without adding significant height or bulk.
Because it adds minimal height, the slip stitch is rarely used to build the main body of a fabric. Its primary roles are structural and transitional. It is the stitch that seamlessly connects the end of a round to its beginning, creating a perfect circle for projects like hats and amigurumi. It is also the stitch you use to discreetly move your hook to a different position in your work without cutting the yarn. Mastering the slip stitch is fundamental, as it provides the polished finish and structural integrity that elevates a project from homemade to expertly crafted. It’s a simple stitch, but its correct application is a hallmark of a skilled crocheter.
When to Use a Slip Stitch in Your Projects
The slip stitch is a multitasker, and knowing when to employ it is key to successful crochet. Its most common use is for joining rounds. When working in continuous spirals, like for amigurumi, you may not need it, but for most granny squares, hats, and motifs, a slip stitch is used at the end of each round to close the circle and create a clear starting point for the next round. Another vital function is for moving your yarn across a row. If your pattern instructs you to "sl st across" a certain number of stitches, it’s a way to relocate your hook, perhaps to start a new armhole or neckline, without adding height.
Beyond joins and travel, the slip stitch shines in finishing and decoration. For seams, a slip stitch seam creates a flat, flexible, and nearly invisible join, perfect for shoulder seams in garments or assembling granny squares. Decoratively, surface slip stitch crochet allows you to add raised lines, outlines, or color accents on top of a finished piece. You can write names, create geometric patterns, or add texture to an otherwise plain blanket square. Essentially, any time you need a discreet, flat, and secure connection or a simple way to add surface detail, the slip stitch is your go-to tool.
How to Make a Slip Stitch — Step by Step
Creating a slip stitch is straightforward, but paying attention to tension is crucial. First, you must have an existing foundation to work into, such as a chain or a stitch from a previous row. Begin with a loop on your hook from a previous stitch or a starting chain. Identify the stitch or chain space where you need to make your slip stitch. Insert your hook into that designated stitch from front to back, or as your pattern directs. Your hook should now be through the stitch with the working loop resting on the shaft.
Here is the key difference from other basic stitches: you do **not** yarn over first. With the hook inserted, simply catch the working yarn with your hook (this is technically a "yarn under" motion as you pull through, but it happens in one action). Now, pull that caught yarn back through the stitch you inserted into. You will now have two loops on your hook. Without stopping, continue to pull that same loop all the way through the loop that was already on your hook. That’s it. You have completed one slip stitch. It will look like a small, tight "V" on your work. The entire motion should be smooth and fluid—insert, catch yarn, pull through everything. Practice this in a chain to feel how it creates a firm, flat connection.
Joining in the Round With a Slip Stitch
Joining a round with a slip stitch is essential for creating neat, professional-looking circular projects like granny squares, coasters, and the brims of hats. After you complete the final stitch of your round, you will have a starting chain and a series of stitches. To join, insert your hook into the top of the very first stitch of the round (not into the starting chain itself). Yarn over and pull through both that stitch and the loop on your hook in one motion—this is your slip stitch join. It closes the circle and brings your working yarn to the correct place to begin the next round, often followed by a starting chain for the new stitch type.
A critical tip is to ensure your work is not twisted before making this first join, especially when starting with a ring of chains. Lay the work flat and verify all chains are facing the same direction. Also, maintaining a correct stitch count relies on this join. The slip stitch join itself is **not** counted as a stitch. You make it, then you begin your new round’s starting chains. A common beginner mistake is to work into the slip stitch as if it were a regular stitch, which gradually increases your stitch count and causes ruffling or buckling. For amigurumi worked in continuous rounds, you typically do not join with a slip stitch, but for most other circular patterns, this join is the cornerstone of a flat, even fabric.
Surface Slip Stitch — Adding Texture to Finished Pieces
Surface slip stitch is a fantastic technique for embellishing finished crochet fabric. Unlike working into stitch tops, you use a slip stitch to "draw" on the surface of your work. Thread a yarn needle with a contrasting color or use your hook to create raised lines, outlines, or intricate designs. To begin, secure your new yarn at the back of the work. Insert your hook from front to back through the fabric between stitches at your starting point, pull up a loop, and chain one to secure. Now, for the surface slip stitch, insert your hook from front to back into the next spot along your desired path, yarn over, and pull up a loop through the fabric and directly through the loop on your hook.
Continue this process, creating a line of slip stitches that sits on the surface. You can follow the path of existing stitch posts to create vertical ridges, outline motifs on a granny square, or write simple words. This technique adds wonderful texture and color without the bulk of appliqué. It’s also reversible, creating a neat dashed line on the back. For seams, it’s a superior method for joining motifs; you place them side-by-side and work slip stitches through the back loops of both pieces, creating a sturdy, decorative ridge that lies flat. It turns a simple join into a design element.
Common Slip Stitch Questions Answered
**Why are my slip stitches so tight?** This is the most common issue. Because the stitch is a simple pull-through, it’s easy to tug too hard. Consciously relax your yarn tension. Think "loose and fluid." Using a hook one size larger just for slip stitch joins or seams can also help immensely. **Can I make a whole project from slip stitches?** Yes, but it creates a very dense, inelastic fabric often called "slip stitch crochet" or "Bosnian crochet." It’s great for trivets, pot holders, or sturdy bags, but uses more yarn and works up slowly.
**What’s the difference between a slip stitch and a chain?** A chain is made in the air, creating a new loop. A slip stitch is always made by connecting into existing work. Chains build length; slip stitches connect. **How do I count slip stitches in a pattern?** Usually, they are not counted as height-building stitches. If a pattern says "sl st 3," it typically means to *make* three slip stitches to move across, not to count them as part of your stitch count for the next row. **What hook size should I use for slip stitch seams?** For seams, especially if your slip stitches tend to pucker, go up one or even two hook sizes from what you used for the main fabric. This ensures the seam lies flat and doesn’t constrict the joined pieces.