Understanding the Anatomy of a
Crochet Stitch
Amigurumi Basics
Published May 2020
If you're new to crochet, you might be puzzled by terms like "insert your hook" or "yarn over." Don't worry; you're not alone! One of the first steps to becoming proficient in crochet is understanding the anatomy of a crochet stitch. Knowing the parts of a stitch is just as important as familiarizing yourself with your crochet tools. In this post, we'll break down the anatomy of a basic crochet stitch to help you navigate your crochet journey with confidence.
The Basics: What is a Crochet Stitch?
A crochet stitch is a loop or series of loops made with yarn and a crochet hook. These loops are interlocked to create fabric. There are many types of crochet stitches, but the single crochet (known as the double crochet in UK terms) is the foundation of many projects, including amigurumi, which are the adorable crocheted toys and figures.
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Each single crochet stitch is made up of a post and two top loops. When viewed from above, the stitch resembles a lying letter "V," formed by the front loop and the back loop.
The Parts of a Single Crochet
Each single crochet stitch is made up of a post and two top loops. Let’s delve into each part:​
Front Loop:
The front loop is the top loop of a stitch that is closest to you when you hold your work. In crochet patterns, you'll often see instructions like "flo" (front loop only), which means you should insert your hook into this loop alone. This will create a ridge on the back (wrong side) of your work.
Back Loop:
The back loop is the top loop of a stitch that is farthest from you when you hold your work. In crochet patterns, you'll encounter instructions like "blo" (back loop only), meaning you should insert your hook into this loop alone. This creates a ridge on the right side of your work, a technique often used to make it easier to attach content to the remaining front loops.
Post:
The post of a crochet stitch is the body of the stitch, situated between the top two loops and the base. In a single crochet, the post is very short, connecting the top loops to the stitch's foundation.
Back Bump:
The back bump, also known as the back bar, is located right behind the back loop of a stitch. When you work into this spot, it creates a visible line of stitches (V's) on the surface of your fabric.
How to Identify the "Right" & "Wrong" Sides of Your Amigurumi
Amigurumi pieces are typically crocheted in the round, forming a continuous spiral. This technique results in two sides of the crocheted fabric that look distinctly different. The "right" side of the fabric generally appears smoother, which many people find more aesthetically pleasing than the "wrong" side.
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I always turn my amigurumi pieces with the "right" side facing out. This ensures the toy has a nicer, smoother shape, and the invisible decreases are much less noticeable.
In the following photos, you can see the "right" and "wrong" sides of single crochet stitches worked in rounds. I have demonstrated both the yarn over ('V') single crochet technique and the yarn under ('X') single crochet technique.
If you are not familiar with the 'X' single crochet technique or would like more information on this topic, check out my Two Ways to Single Crochet tutorial.
Right Side (Front Side) "V" Stitch
Here is what the right side (front side) of the fabric looks like when you work single crochet stitches in the round using the "V stitch" (yarn over) technique. You can see the small V's on the surface
Wrong Side (Back Side) "V" Stitch
Here is what the wrong side (back side) of the fabric looks like when you work single crochet stitches in the round using the "V stitch" (yarn over) technique. You can see the horizontal lines created by the back bumps of the stitches.
Right Side (Front Side) "X" Stitch
Here is what the right side (front side) of the fabric looks like when you work single crochet stitches in the round using the "X stitch" (yarn over) technique. You can see the small X's on the surface
Wrong Side (Back Side) "X" Stitch
Here is what the wrong side (back side) of the fabric looks like when you work single crochet stitches in the round using the "X stitch" (yarn over) technique. You can see the horizontal lines created by the back bumps of the stitches.
Inserting Your Crochet Hook
When instructions say "insert your hook," they're often referring to inserting it under both top loops. This creates a standard, sturdy stitch. However, you can create different textures and patterns by inserting your hook in other ways:
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Under the Front Loop Only: This technique can create a subtle, ribbed effect.
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Under the Back Loop Only: This method often creates a ridged texture and can make your fabric more flexible.
Yarning Over (YO)
The yarn over is another fundamental part of creating a stitch. It involves wrapping the yarn over your hook from back to front. This action is essential for forming new loops on your hook, which will then be pulled through existing loops to create stitches.
Completing a Single Crochet Stitch
To complete a single crochet stitch, follow these steps:
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Insert your hook into the stitch (typically under both top loops).
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Yarn over and pull through the stitch. You now have two loops on your hook.
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Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook. You've now completed one single crochet stitch.
Practice Makes Perfect
Understanding the anatomy of a crochet stitch can make a significant difference in your crochet journey. Take time to practice identifying and working with each part of the stitch. As you become more comfortable, you'll find that your speed and confidence in crocheting will grow.
Pin For Later
That's it for my Crochet Basics!
Crochet is a versatile and rewarding craft, and mastering the basics opens up a world of creative possibilities. By understanding the anatomy of a crochet stitch, you lay the foundation for more advanced techniques and intricate patterns. So grab your hook and yarn, and start practicing!
If you aren't ready to dive in just yet, perhaps take a look at the rest of my Tips and Tutorials to help you achieve the perfect finish for your amigurumi project every time!
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Thanks so much for stopping by and happy crocheting!
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