Oct 16, 2025

How to Crochet a Chain Stitch (Beginner's Guide)

The foundation for every great project (and every Booty Pillow 🍑).

If you’ve mastered how to hold your yarn and hook, you’re ready for your very first stitch — the chain stitch. Think of it as the starting line of your crochet journey. Every pattern begins here, and once you get this motion down, you’ll feel your confidence bloom with every loop.

Step 1: Insert Your Hook

To crochet a chain stitch, slip your crochet hook into the working loop — the loop that’s already on your hook from your slip knot.
Make sure your yarn tension feels comfortable: not too tight, not too loose. You want your hook to glide smoothly.

💡 Tip: Keep your hands relaxed. Tight tension makes your chains small and stiff, while a light touch gives you flexible, even stitches.

Step 2: Yarn Over

Next, wrap the yarn over the hook from back to front.
This movement is called a yarn over, and you’ll use it constantly in crochet — it’s how you add loops and build your stitches.

✨ Think of it like scooping ice cream — smooth, steady, and satisfying.

Step 3: Pull Through the Loop

Now, gently pull the yarn through the working loop on your hook.
That’s it — you’ve made your first chain stitch! 🎉

Each time you yarn over and pull through again, you’ll add another link to your growing chain. Try making a few and notice how they form a beautiful, braided pattern.

Common Chain Problems (and Fixes)

My chains are uneven! → You might be pulling the yarn too tight. Loosen your grip slightly.
They’re twisting or curling! → Keep your base chain flat on the table as you work.
I can’t get the hook through my chain later! → Make sure your loops are large enough to slide your hook easily through them.

If you’re using your Booty Pillow Kit, our soft, chunky yarn makes learning to chain extra easy. You’ll see every loop clearly and feel progress fast — perfect for beginners!