How to slip knot and chain

If you’re picking up a crochet hook for the first time, this is where you’ll want to start. In this article, we’ll learn how to attach your yarn to your hook with a slip knot, then build a foundation chain - which is how you begin 99% of crochet projects. These foundational techniques are also crucial for understanding how the crochet hook and yarn work together, and with this knowledge, you’ll soon be able to create beautiful, crocheted pieces.

Let’s begin with the slip knot.

Take the end of your yarn (the tail) and create a loop by placing the end over itself. Holding the end of the yarn, use your other hand to pull through a loop through the loop we just created. While still holding on to the yarn tail, pull the loop to create a knot. Insert your hook through this loop, then pull the yarn tail to tighten. Now you’re ready to begin chaining.

To create a chain, take the end of yarn attached to the ball and wrap it around your hook - behind, around, then down the front of your hook. This is called “yarning over”. Next, pull the loop we just yarned over through the slip knot, and that’s it - you’ve just made a chain! Continue to create chains by yarning over and pulling through the loop on your hook.

Note: A slip knot is really just a chain made without a crochet hook.

Check out the video below for a visual on how to create a slip knot and chain.