How to Crochet a Foundation Chain - Tutorial Four

In tutorial four of the How to Crochet Step by Step mini series we will go through how to crochet a foundation chain or starting chain.

The foundation chain is the very beginning of a crochet pattern. It is usually the very first set of instructions for a crochet pattern that is worked in rows, before the instructions for Row 1 begin.

A small foundation chain of 12 chains lying diagonally across from top left to bottom right. A bright green crochet hook is lying parallel with the hook pointing towards the top. 3.5mm is written in the middle of the hook on a flat section.

You will probably see something in the beginning of the pattern that says “Chain 20” or “Ch 20”. This is when you make the foundation chain.

Below is a quick YouTube video if you prefer to watch rather than read through instructions. Scroll past to find the written information below.

Watch the Video

A birds eye view of a small foundation chain made in natural coloured yarn. A green crochet hook is lying parallel to it and they are both diagonal. Above, dark grey text on white reads "How to Crochet a Foundation Chain www.bygoldenberry.com".

Written Instructions

  1. Start with one loop on your hook. If you are unsure how to get to this point, please head back to the previous tutorial which shows how to crochet a slip knot.

  2. Place your working yarn over your hook i.e. yarn over.

  3. Using your hook, pull the working yarn through the loop on your hook.

  4. You should now have a single chain and still one loop on the hook.

  5. Continue yarning over and pulling through until you have the number of chains needed for the pattern you are working on.

Make sure you get a notification about the next tutorial by subscribing to my YouTube channel.

Next Step -> How to Crochet a Magic Circle

More Beginner Tutorials

Tina Rinaudo

Tina is a passionate zero waster and crocheter who aims to live and crochet as sustainably as possible. She has been crocheting since 2016 and specialises in using sustainable yarns to design zero waste crochet patterns to make easy swaps for yourselves and your homes. She has been featured in Happily Hooked Magazine, PatternCenter.com and many other websites for her eco friendly crochet patterns.

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