The Family of Crochet Stitches – From Single Crochet to Treble

If you're new to crochet – or just want a clear overview – this guide introduces you to the core stitch types from basic to advanced. We'll also clarify the difference between US and UK terminology, so you'll never mix up a "double" again.

This is a perfect reference guide for beginners and a handy recap for experienced crocheters.

🇺🇸 US vs. 🇬🇧 UK Crochet Terms – A Quick Comparison

Basic Stitch: US Term: Single Crochet (sc) | UK Term: Double Crochet (dc)

Medium Stitch: US Term: Half Double Crochet (hdc) | UK Term: Half Treble Crochet (htr)

Classic Stitch: US Term: Double Crochet (dc) | UK Term: Treble Crochet (tr)

Taller Stitch: US Term: Treble Crochet (tr) | UK Term: Double Treble (dtr) 

💡 Tip: Always check which system a pattern uses. US terms are more common on platforms like Ravelry or Etsy, UK terms often appear in printed books and European sites. 

🔹 1. Chain Stitch (ch)

• The foundation of nearly every crochet project

• Used to create starting chains and spacing

• No height

🔹 2. Slip Stitch (sl st)

• Great for seamless finishes or decorative surface crochet
• Very flat, no height
• Joins rounds or finishes edges cleanly

🔹 3. Single Crochet (US) / Double Crochet (UK)

• Tight, dense, very beginner-friendly

• Great for amigurumi, baskets, baby items

• One yarn-over pull only

• Tip: Perfect for structured items

🔹 4. Half Double Crochet (US) / Half Treble (UK)

• Great for wearable items, baby clothes, blankets

• Yarn over once, pull through all three loops

• A bit taller, with slight flexibility

🔹 5. Double Crochet (US) / Treble (UK)

• Ideal for shawls, wraps, and garments

• Yarn over once, pull through in two steps

• More height and a looser structure

• Tip: Beautiful stitch definition

🔹 6. Treble Crochet (US) / Double Treble (UK)

• Great in summer garments or net-like patterns

• Perfect for lacy or airy designs

• Yarn over twice before inserting hook

• Extra tall, very open stitch

📐 Quick Comparison Overview

• Chain Stitch (ch)
  Height: 0
  Density: –
  Best for starting chains and stitch transitions – the foundation of most projects, though it doesn't add height on its own.

• Slip Stitch (sl st)
  Height: 0
  Density: very tight
  Best for closing rounds, subtle joins, or decorative details – perfect when you need a flat and seamless look.

• Single Crochet (US) / Double Crochet (UK)
  Height: +
  Density: very tight
  Best for firm shapes like amigurumi, baskets, and small accessories – creates a dense, tidy fabric.

• Half Double Crochet (US) / Half Treble (UK)
  Height: ++
  Density: tight
  Best for garments, shawls, and baby projects – a great middle ground between structure and softness.

• Double Crochet (US) / Treble (UK)
  Height: +++
  Density: loose
  Best for scarves, ponchos, and airy wraps – provides stretch and drape while working up quickly.

• Treble Crochet (US) / Double Treble (UK)
  Height: ++++
  Density: very loose
  Best for lace patterns, summer tops, or large-area projects – tall and open, it gives a decorative, lightweight effect.

💡 Tips for Beginners

• Always swatch before starting – different stitches change gauge

• Try mixing stitch heights for texture (e.g. alternating hdc and dc)

• Use stitch markers to track row starts, especially with taller stitches

• Don't forget: Tension matters – the same stitch can look very different depending on yarn and hook

✨ Final Thoughts: Build Your Skills One Stitch at a Time

Whether you're learning your first single crochet or tackling tall treble lace, understanding your stitches is key to growing your skills. Think of this guide as your personal stitch family tree – ready for any creative adventure.

Do you have a favourite stitch or a trick for remembering US/UK terms? 

Share it with #strickenimtrend – or join us in the Facebook group!

#strickenimtrend #crochetbeginners #crochetstitches #USvsUKcrochet #crochetlibrary #stitchguide

Yours,
Kathrin ☀️🧶