Chainless foundation crochet stitches are a total game changer! Foundation crochet stitches replace the chain AND the first row when starting a new crochet project. When it suits the pattern (more about that below), this is my absolute favorite way to start a new crochet piece.
Honestly, once you get the hang of this you’ll wonder how you have survived without it for so long. I sure did.
About Chainless Foundation Crochet Stitches
- Scroll down get started with chainless foundation crochet stitches – find out what they are, and when (and why!) you will use them.
- Then, check out each of these photo and video tutorials to learn exactly how to work each foundation crochet stitch:
What are chainless foundation crochet stitches?
The chainless foundation method is an alternative technique for starting a new crochet project.
With this technique, you will not crochet a number of chains and then work your first row into these chains.
Instead, you will create each chain and the corresponding stitch at the same time. Pretty neat, huh!?
Why use the chainless foundation method?
- You end up having to restart projects multiple times because of chain count errors
- You find crocheting into the starting chain tedious and frustrating
- The first row of your project ends up with a “bumpy bottom” instead of a neat, straight edge
- You want your first row to have a bit more stretch. Crochet chains are often just a bit too rigid, where as a chainless foundation row is a lot stretchier.
When can I use a chainless foundation?
You can use the chainless foundation method for any project that starts with a row of:
- Single Crochet (US) / Double Crochet (UK)
- Half-Double Crochet (US) / Half-Treble Crochet (UK)
- Double Crochet (US) / Treble Crochet (UK)
The technique is more or less the same for each stitch, with a few slight tweaks.
When can I NOT use a chainless foundation?
If the first row of your pattern requires skipping chains you will have to skip this technique too, sorry. Alternatively, you could crochet a foundation row and then start your pattern from there. This might not always make sense, but use your own discretion.
Photo & Video Tutorials for Foundation Crochet Stitches
- Foundation Single Crochet Stitch (fsc) – Photo & Video Tutorial
- Foundation Half Double Crochet Stitch (fhdc) – Photo & Video Tutorial
- Foundation Double Crochet Stitch (fdc) – Photo & Video Tutorial
I hope you enjoy these tutorials!
I love seeing all of your projects; be sure to tag me on Instagram (you can find me here: @nedandmimi), and use #nedandmimi to show off your chainless foundation crochet stitches 🙂
Happy crocheting!
Sarah
Hi Sarah thanks so much. I loved your explanation with very clear pics. Yes I love referring back to the pictures as well when I’m working alone but it was also awesome to team up with Tony to watch a video first and then I can come back and refer to your photos.
I can’t wait to try this. Thanks again ❤️
P.S Lovely to read your about you page. I love your modern and functional style. Keep up the great work.
Ah thank you so much for your lovely message Robyn! Yes I think you’re onto something about the video first and then going back to the photos – great tip 🙂