Learn how to foundation crochet with this beginner-friendly foundation crochet tutorial. Master FSC, FDC & FHDC with photos, tips and a step-by-step video!
Starting with a long chain can be frustrating. It twists, it tightens, and it’s just not fun. But what if you could skip all that and dive straight into your first stitches?
That’s exactly what this foundation crochet tutorial is all about.
If you’ve struggled with counting endless chains, pulling too tight, or losing track of where your hook goes next – you’re in the right place.
Foundation crochet gives you a clean, stretchy edge and a smarter way to begin. It’s simple once you know how, and I promise – after you try it, you won’t want to go back.
In this post, you’ll master three game-changing chainless foundation stitches:
- Foundation Single Crochet (FSC)
- Foundation Half Double Crochet (FHDC)
- Foundation Double Crochet (FDC)
We’ll cover each one with written instructions, tips and a step-by-step video tutorial.
If you’re just starting out or ready to move on from the old way of chaining, this guide will change how you begin your next crochet project.
What is Foundation Crochet?
Let’s keep it simple: foundation crochet lets you crochet your foundation chain and your first row of stitches at the same time.
You skip the twisting, the counting, the frogging – and instead, stitch your way into a chainless foundation row that feels smoother and looks cleaner.
Why Use Foundation Stitches?
- Say goodbye to the traditional chain stitches and hello to clean edges.
- Create an edge with just the right amount of stretch (yes, even for long rows!).
- Adjust the number of stitches as you go.
- Great for garments, shawls, blankets – basically anything with a visible edge.
Benefits vs. Traditional Chain Start
| Feature | Traditional Chain | Foundation Crochet Tutorial Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Tension | Too tight or loose | Even and flexible |
| Accuracy | Easy to miscount | No need to pre-count the number of chains |
| Time | Slower | Fast once mastered |
How to Foundation Single Crochet (FSC)
FSC is the first foundation stitch I fell in love with. It replaces both your base chain and first row of single crochet.
Step-by-Step:
- Start with a slip knot and chain 2.
2. Insert hook in the 2nd chain from hook.
3. Yarn over and pull a stitch through. You should have now 2 loops on the hook.
4. Yarn over and pull a stitch through the first loop only – you should have still two loops on your hook. You have now created the chain part of Fsc – mark this chain if needed, because this is the first chain where you will insert your hook starting the next foundation single crochet.
5. Next, yarn over again and pull through both of the loops on your hook to make a single crochet. You should have only one loop on your hook. This completes your first single crochet.
6. To make the next Fsc, insert your hook into the chain part of the previous stitch (refer to point 2) – between the chain and the single crochet. There should be two strands on the left of the hook and one loop on the right of the hook.
7. Yarn over and pull a stitch through. You should have now 2 loops on the hook.
8. Yarn over and pull a stitch through the first loop only – you should have still two loops on your hook.
9. Next, yarn over again and pull through both of the loops on your hook to make a single crochet. You should have only one loop on your hook. This completes your next single crochet.
To make the next foundation single crochet, insert your hook into the chain part of the previous stitch and repeat instruction from steps 3- 5.
✨ Tip: Mark the first stitch with a stitch marker so counting your foundation single crochet stitches is easier later!
Why You’ll Love FSC
- Super stretchy edge
- No more tight beginning chain to wrestle with
- Perfect for shawls, dishcloths, and pretty much any new project.
How to Foundation Half Double Crochet (FHDC)
FHDC is the middle child of foundation stitches. Taller than single, shorter than double crochet stitch – and the perfect balance for cozy wearables.
Step-by-Step:
- Start with a slip knot and chain 3.
2. Yarn over, then insert your hook into the 3rd chain from the hook — that’s the very first chain you made.
3. Yarn over again and pull up a loop. You should now have 3 loops on your hook.
4. Yarn over and pull through just the first loop — this makes the little chain part of your stitch.
5. Yarn over one more time and pull through all 3 loops. That’s your first foundation half double crochet done!
6. For the next stitch, insert your hook into the chain part at the bottom of the last stitch you made — that’s your new starting point.
💡 Works beautifully for fingerless gloves, cowls, and sweaters that need stretch without bulk.
How to Foundation Double Crochet (FDC)
Ready for some height? FDC gives you a row of dc right off the bat – no chain guessing, no second chain squinting.
Step-by-Step:
Start with a slip knot and chain 4.
2. Insert your hook in the 4th chain from hook.
3. Yarn over and pull a stitch through. You should have now 3 loops on the hook.
4. Yarn over and pull a stitch through the first loop only – you should have still three loops on your hook. You have now created the chain part of Fdc – mark this chain if needed, because this is the stitch where you will insert your hook starting the next foundation double crochet.
5. Next, yarn over again and pull through two loops. You should have now 2 loops on the hook.
6. Yarn over again and pull through both of loops. This completes your first double crochet.
7. To make the next Fdc, insert your hook into the chain part of the previous stitch (refer to point 4) – between the chain and the double crochet. There should be two strands on the left of the hook and twoloop on the right of the hook.
8. Yarn over and pull a stitch through. You should have now 3 loops on the hook.
9. Yarn over and pull a stitch through the first loop only – you should have still three loops on your hook.
10. Next, yarn over again and pull through two loops. You should have now 2 loops on the hook.011. Yarn over again and pull through both of loops. This completes your next double crochet.
To make the next foundation double crochet, insert your hook into the chain part of the previous stitch and repeat instruction from steps 3 – 6.
✅ Use this method for blankets, sweaters, and other projects with a tall first row.
FSC vs. FHDC vs. FDC: Let’s Compare!
| Stitch | Height | Use Case | Elasticity |
| FSC | Short | Great for tops, soft edges | High |
| FHDC | Medium | Best for wearables & hats | Medium |
| FDC | Tall | Great for structured pieces | Medium to High |
Still not sure? Try all three and see which one feels right in your hands. That’s the beauty of this foundation crochet tutorial – options that work for you.
Foundation Crochet Tips for Beginners
Choosing Yarn + Hook
Use a light-colored yarn and a 0.5 mm bigger crochet hook than your pattern calls for. It helps you see your chain side clearly.
Fixing Tension
It’s okay if your first foundation looks a bit wobbly – that’s totally normal! Your tension will even out as your hands get used to the movement.
Practice Projects to Try:
- Try it with the Flourish Linen Scarf for a beautiful, lightweight accessory that benefits from a stretchy edge.
- Use it in the Tonnta Colorful Crochet Blanket to keep your foundation row neat and even.
- Start the Cable Diamond Crochet Blanket with FDC for extra structure and flow.
- Give your Dahlia Pillow a clean start using foundation stitches for the base panel.
🎥 Watch the Full Video Tutorial
Want to follow along in real time? I’ve got you covered! This step-by-step video tutorial walks you through all three stitches – FSC, FHDC, and FDC – using real yarn and real-time demonstrations.
Watch the video right here! Pause, rewind, and crochet along at your own pace.
So, which one will you try in your next crochet project?
Are you an FSC fan or does FDC feel like your vibe? Maybe FHDC is your new go-to?
Tell me below or tag me in your project pics – I seriously love seeing how you bring these techniques to life. 💛
Happy stitching,
Sylwia 🧶
MORE CROCHET TUTORIALS
If you found this foundation crochet tutorial helpful, you might also like posts:
- How to crochet STRAIGHT EDGES every time
- How to crochet a perfect circle
- How to make a slip knot – 3 Easy Ways
- How to crochet standing stitches
- How to crochet ribbing
- Mattress stitch join tutorial
Don’t forget to save this Pin for easy reference: 📌
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