Slip Stitch Stitches, Stitch Tutorials, Stitchtionary

Slip Stitch Tutorial

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Welcome to my very first entry in the Knotted Up In String Stitchionary! Today we are going to learn the slip stitch as its own fabric pattern. I think a lot of crocheters use the slip stitch as a means to an end; to join rounds, to form picot stitches, and other joining and foundational purposes. But the slip stitch fabric is incredibly versatile and is an excellent stitch pattern for your repertoire.

There are three swatches of the slip stitch. One swatch in chunky weight cream-colored yarn, on swatch in worsted weight green yarn, and one swatch in DK weight purple yarn.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the slip stitch is that it works up into a very thick, cozy fabric with an almost knit look. It’s also quite elastic. You can use this stitch pattern to crochet warm bands for bottom-up hats or use it for cuffs and waistbands on sweaters and tops. Additionally, when worked in cotton, it creates heavy-duty washcloths and potholders.

Materials

  • Yarn of choice
  • Hook size to match your chosen yarn weight
  • Hook size two or three sizes larger than required for your chosen yarn weight
  • Scissors
  • Yarn Needle

Notes

  • US Terms
  • When working slip stitch fabrics, work stitches very loosely

Stitches

Slip Stitch (sl st) – Insert hook into designated stitch, yarn over and draw through all loops on hook. Slip stitch made.

An up-close photograph of the slip stitch swatch in worsted weight green yarn.
The image is a crochet chart that visually depicts the slip stitch.

This stitch pattern is worked in any number of stitches. To begin your sample swatch or project, chain your desired number of stitches plus 1.

Row 1. Sl st in second chain from hook and in each stitch across. Ch 1, turn. Note: If you find your stitches are too tight, go up several hook sizes.

Row 2. Sl st in each stitch across. Ch 1, turn.

Repeat row 2 until piece is your desired length. Fasten off and weave in ends.