How to Do a Stacked Single Crochet: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Are you ready to elevate your crochet skills? The stacked single crochet (stsc) is an alternative to traditional turning chains that creates a cleaner, more structured edge. It’s perfect for achieving a seamless, professional look in your crochet projects. This tutorial will walk you through how to make a stacked single crochet step by step. Let’s get started!

What is a Stacked Single Crochet?

The stacked single crochet (stsc) is used in place of a turning chain when beginning a new row of taller stitches, such as double or treble crochet. Instead of chaining multiple stitches, you work two single crochets stacked on top of each other, creating a stitch that mimics the height of a double crochet.

Benefits of Stacked Single Crochet

  • Eliminates Gaps: Creates a more seamless and professional edge compared to traditional turning chains.
  • Stronger Edge: Provides better structure for projects that require sturdy edges, like blankets and garments.
  • More Consistent Stitch Height: Mimics the height of taller stitches without the looseness of a chain.

Materials You’ll Need

To get started, you’ll need the following:

  • A crochet hook (use the size recommended for your yarn) - I will be using a 3.75mm (F hook) for the tutorial 
  • Yarn of your choice - I am using hobbii friends cotton 8/6
  • A foundation row of stitches or a small crocheted square - I’ll be using mine from the How To Do a Double Crochet tutorial. Alternatively, you can use whatever project you may be working on.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start with a Foundation Row

Begin with a row of stitches, such as half double crochet or double crochet, according to your pattern. Again, I am using my square from my How To Do a Double Crochet tutorial.

2. Turn Your Work and Make a Single Crochet in the First Stitch

At the end of your row, turn your work to begin the next row. Instead of making a traditional turning chain, insert your hook into the first stitch of the row, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook to complete a single crochet.

3. Insert Hook Between the Two Posts of Your Single Crochet

Look at the single crochet you just made. Insert your hook in between the two vertical posts of the stitch. 

4. Make Another Single Crochet

Yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over again, and pull through both loops on the hook. This creates a stacked effect that mimics the height of a double crochet.

5. Continue with Your Pattern

Proceed with your row as usual, treating the stacked single crochet as the first stitch of the row. For me this is continuing on with double crochet. You can tell how straight stacked single crochet makes the edges on the left side! As always, blocking your work will also provide you with the straightest edges possible. 

Tips for Success

  • Keep your tension even to ensure a smooth, uniform stitch.
  • Use the stacked single crochet whenever a traditional turning chain looks too loose or uneven.
  • Practice on a swatch before incorporating it into a larger project.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make a stacked single crochet, you can improve the look and structure of your crochet projects. Whether you’re working on blankets, garments, or accessories, this technique will help you achieve a polished finish. Happy crocheting!

What’s next?

Looking for more crochet tips and tutorials? Follow the quick links below for other beginner stitches or head straight to the full techniques page of my website!

How to Do a Magic Circle

How to Do a Slip Stitch

How to Do a Single Crochet 

Patterns that utilize the stacked single crochet stitch

Diamond Cat Sweater Crochet Pattern

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