How to Single Crochet Foundation Chain (Fsc)

Learn how to single crochet foundation chain (Fsc) successfully in this step-by-step photo and VIDEO tutorial below. This chainless single crochet foundation technique will help you save time and create the foundation row and the first row of single crochets at the same time.

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Table of Contents

What is a single crochet foundation chain?

Learning how to do the foundation single crochet (Fsc) is one of the best crochet technique that you can learn as a crocheter. It’s my absolute favourite way to begin a new crochet project – a chainless way!

This is a technique of starting a crochet project that creates the foundation chains and the first row of single crochet at the same time. WOW!

We can also called this method as the chainless single crochet foundation. Why?

Because you are not working a traditional starting chains and then single crochet row into that base chain. Instead, you will create each chain and the corresponding single crochet stitch on top of it simultaneously.

Quick detour: If you’re hungry for more beginner‑friendly tricks, swing by my Ultimate Crochet Tutorials 2025 guide—it’s got everything you need!

Why crocheters love the single crochet foundation chain?

There are so many reasons to love the single crochet foundation chain!

It’s perfect for projects that start with a long chain foundation row, like crochet blankets and afghans, rugs, table runners, pillows or scarfs.
No more missing stitches! You can add or take away extra stitches if needed, ensuring the number of stitches is always correct.
It has the same tension as the rest of the project.
The edge of your project is neat and straight.
This chainless single crochet foundation technique is perfect for projects that need a flexible edge, for example crochet clothing.

BTW: See these tips in action and 20 more tricks in my Ultimate Crochet Tutorials 2025 post

Once you practice a bit this crochet method, you will never start your crochet project in the old way. Below I have written instructions and a step-by-step picture and VIDEO tutorial to show you how to work the single crochet foundation chain.

Crochet Patterns Using Single Crochet Foundation Chain

Tips for Mastering Single Crochet Foundation Chain

Hot tip: Before you dive into mastering Fsc, peek at my Ultimate Crochet Tutorials 2025 for a full stitch‑by‑stitch playground!

Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice single crochet foundation chain, the more comfortable you will become with the technique.
Use Stitch Markers: Mark the chain part of each Fsc stitch to help you identify where to insert your hook for the next stitch.
Watch Tutorials: Follow step-by-step photo and video tutorials to better understand the process.
Be Patient: Learning a new crochet technique can take time, so be patient with yourself as you practice.
Experiment with Different Yarns and Hooks: Try using different yarns and hook sizes to see what works best for you.

Single Crochet Foundation Chain – VIDEO TUTORIAL

To learn how to Fsc, watch the step-by-step video tutorial below or scroll down for the written instructions.

TIP: To view this single crochet foundation chain video tutorial properly, please disable any ad-blocker you have running.

I hope you enjoy this tutorial!

Single Crochet Foundation Chain – PICTURE TUTORIAL

Materials Needed

Yarn of your choice
Appropriate crochet hook for your yarn
Stitch markers (optional)

Want to nail your tension from the get‑go? Check out my Slip Knot for three foolproof ways to start.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

When learning the single crochet foundation chain (Fsc) technique, beginners often make a few common mistakes.

One mistake is not marking the chain part of each Fsc stitch. Without marking, it can be hard to see where to put your hook for the next stitch. To avoid this, use stitch markers or a different color of yarn to mark the chain part. This will help you find it easily as you crochet.

Another problem is uneven tension. This means your stitches can be too tight or too loose, making your foundation row look messy. To keep your tension even, practice holding your yarn and hook in a way that feels comfortable. Try to keep your hands and wrists relaxed so your stitches are not too tight or too loose.

Struggling? Try my Straight Edges Every Time trick for even rows.

A third mistake is putting the hook in the wrong place. When you make the next Fsc stitch, be sure to insert your hook into the correct part of the previous stitch. You should insert it into the chain part of the last stitch, between the chain and the single crochet. This keeps your foundation row strong and even.

By watching out for these common mistakes and using these simple tips, you can get better at the foundation single crochet technique.

With practice, your stitches will become even and neat, helping you start your crochet projects with a strong and beautiful foundation.

Advanced Techniques and Variations

Foundation Half Double Crochet (Fhdc)

For a foundation half double crochet, follow the same steps as the Fsc but use the half double crochet stitch instead.

Foundation Double Crochet (Fdc)

The foundation double crochet starts similarly but uses the double crochet stitch. Start with a slip knot and chain 3. Insert your hook into the third chain from the hook, yarn over, and pull through a loop. Yarn over and pull through the first loop only. Yarn over and pull through two loops, then yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops on the hook. Continue this process for the desired number of foundation double crochet stitches.

Foundation Treble Crochet (Ftc)

For a foundation treble crochet, start with a slip knot and chain 4. Insert your hook into the fourth chain from the hook and follow the same steps as the foundation single crochet but use the treble crochet stitch.

FAQs About Foundation Single Crochet

1. What is a single crochet foundation chain (Fsc)?

A foundation single crochet (Fsc) is a technique where you create the foundation chain and the first row of single crochet stitches simultaneously. It’s a great way to start a crochet project with a flexible, stretchy edge.

2. Why should I use foundation single crochet instead of a traditional foundation chain?

Using Fsc eliminates the need for a starting chain and ensures your stitch count is always correct. It’s especially useful for projects with a long starting row, like blankets and scarves.

For more stitch comparisons (FSC vs. FDC vs. FHDC), check out the Foundation Techniques roundup.

3. Can I use Fsc for any crochet project?

Yes, Fsc can be used for most crochet projects. It’s particularly beneficial for projects that require a stretchy edge, such as garments or accessories.

4. How do I make the first stitch Fsc?

Start with a slip knot and chain 2. Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, yarn over, and pull a loop through. Yarn over again and pull through the first loop only. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook.

5. How do I continue after the first Fsc stitch?

Insert your hook into the chain part of the previous stitch, yarn over, and pull a loop through. Yarn over again and pull through the first loop only. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook. Repeat these steps for each subsequent Fsc stitch.

6. Can I use Fsc for double crochet?

Yes, there is a foundation double crochet (Fdc) technique that follows a similar process but creates double crochet stitches instead of single crochet.

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