Two Ways to Single Crochet (and Why It Matters For Amigurumi)

Did you know there are actually two different ways to make a single crochet stitch?

When I first started making amigurumi, I had no idea! I often wondered why my amigurumis looked so different from those of other designers. Then one day, while flipping through Yan Schenkel’s wonderful book, Animal Friends of Pica Pau (read my review HERE!), I discovered the secret – a simple yet powerful variation in technique.

Like many beginners, I thought the only way was to yarn over. But it turns out… you can yarn under too!

This tiny change completely transforms the look and feel of your stitches – and once you see the difference, you’ll understand why it’s so useful to know both methods.

The “V” vs. the “X” Single Crochet: the Aesthetic Difference:

In crochet, the “V” single crochet and the “X” single crochet are both versions of the same basic stitch – but they produce noticeably different textures and aesthetics in your finished fabric.

Take a look at the photos below to see the difference in the fabric created by each method. ​​​​​​ 

“V” Single Crochet Method:

The “V” single crochet is the classic stitch most of us learn first.
When you work a few rows, the front of your fabric forms soft little “V” shapes. These stitches sit slightly staggered, and create a fabric that’s flexible, smooth, and a bit more open – perfect for garments or crochet pieces where you want a lighter, softer drape.

How to make a “V” single crochet:

1.  Insert the hook into the stitch.
2.  Yarn over and pull up a loop (you have two loops on the hook).
3.  Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook.

“X” Single Crochet Method:

The “X” single crochet – sometimes called the crossed single crochet or twisted single crochet – looks a little different. Instead of forming a “V,” the stitches stack neatly on top of one another, creating “X” shapes on the surface.

This variation uses less yarn and results in a tighter, denser fabric – which makes it ideal for amigurumi or projects where you want minimal gaps between stitches.

How to make an “X” single crochet:

1. Insert the hook into the stitch.
2. Instead of yarning over from back to front, yarn over from front to back.
3. Pull the loop through the stitch — notice the slight twist!
4. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook.

So, Which Crochet Method Is Better?

Honestly, neither method is inherently “better” than the other – they just create different results, so it really comes down to personal preference!
It all depends on what you’re making and the texture you want to achieve.

Here’s how I like to choose:

• For amigurumi parts, I almost always use the “X” single crochet. It gives that beautiful, tight, pixel-like look that makes the shape crisp and the stuffing invisible.
• For clothing or accessories, I switch to the “V” single crochet because it drapes more softly and feels lighter.

The “X” stitch can take a little practice – your hands might need a few rounds to build muscle memory – but once you get it, you’ll be able to switch between both methods effortlessly. And that’s when crochet really starts to feel like magic.

Why This Matters for Amigurumi Makers

If your amigurumi look slightly different from pattern photos, this tiny technique difference could be the reason. Learning both stitches not only gives you more control over the texture of your projects but also helps you better understand the designer’s intention when reading a pattern.

Try both, experiment a little, and see which feels best in your hands – because that’s part of the joy of crochet: learning, exploring, and creating something that feels uniquely you!