Foundation stitches for crochet are a handy skill to master, but learning how to join foundation stitches can be tricky. However, all it takes is a little know-how. Once you learn a few basic steps, you’ll be able to join any foundation stitch easily!
Crochet foundation stitches can be so helpful for crocheters. Having a technique that crochets the base chain and first row at the same time is amazing!
However, foundation crochet stitches can be tricky to use in the round, especially for beginners. Because you need to join the stitch at the bottom and the top, it can be confusing to understand how to accomplish this.
It doesn’t have to be this way though. You can easily use a few basic steps to join any foundation stitch you might use. Whether you use the foundation single crochet or foundation treble crochet stitch, this joining technique remains the same.
If you have never used foundation stitches before, I would not try to join them quite yet. Instead, I suggest you check out my tutorials (Foundation Single Crochet, Foundation Half Double Crochet, Foundation Double Crochet, and Foundation Treble Crochet) and master the stitch you want to use before learning how to join them.
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Foundation Stitches
What are foundation stitches in crochet?
Foundation stitches in crochet are crochet stitches that create the base chain and the first row of the project at the same time. They are often called chainless foundation stitches because you do not need to start with a base chain.
How do I crochet foundation stitches?
You can learn how to crochet foundation stitches by checking out my tutorials for Foundation Single Crochet, Foundation Half Double Crochet, Foundation Double Crochet, and Foundation Treble Crochet.
Do I have to use foundation crochet stitches?
Honestly, it depends on the pattern you are following if you really have to use foundation crochet stitches. If it is something like a blanket or other large project, you might not, but garments are usually designed to be made with the stitch specified. Always check the pattern notes though to be sure.
Why is my foundation chain so tight?
The foundation chain does not use as much yarn and often has less slack as well, which makes it seem tight. Foundation chains do not have the same stretch as the rest of your crochet stitches, which is why some projects use foundation stitches instead of a chain.
Supplies:
You really only need two things to practice this joining technique.
- Yarn
- Crochet Hook
If you are wanting to use this technique for a specific pattern, then use that yarn and hook combination to practice. However, for those who are just wanting to learn and grow in their crochet skills, you can use whatever hook and yarn feels most comfortable to you!
If you are wanting to follow along with me in the video and photo examples, I am using a Worsted Weight (4) yarn and J/6mm or I/9 5.5mm hook.
Notes & Tips on Joining Foundation Stitches:
- Be sure to not crochet too tightly. Having a tight tension with foundation stitches can make your row or round curl, and it can be difficult to join.
- When you are completing step 2, make sure to check that you insert your hook into the base chain of the first stitch. You do not want to join to the chain space from the very beginning of the round. Look for the two loops on the bottom to be sure.
- Within foundation stitches, you will normally have a chain 1 step to complete the base chain portion of the stitch. Steps 1 & 2 take the place of the chain 1 step.
- US Terms are used for this tutorial.
How to Join Foundation Stitches in Crochet
Video Tutorial:
To start, you will need to create your row (or round) of foundation stitches, minus the last stitch. You will use the last stitch in the joining process. The example video will demonstrate the process with foundation half double crochet, and the photos will show you with a foundation double crochet stitch. However, you can complete the basic steps below to join any foundation stitch.
- Complete first steps of foundation stitch until right before you chain 1 to create the base chain of the final stitch.
- Insert your hook, front to back, into the base chain of the first foundation stitch of the round. Yarn over and pull through the stitch AND the first loop on the hook. (This step takes place of the the chain 1.)
- Complete the stitch as normal.
- Slip stitch to the top of the first stitch of the round.
That’s it! You can use these steps to join foundation stitches of any type, which is why I love this technique. I hope it helps you on your crochet journey. Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments!
Pattern Suggestions:
Some patterns that use this foundation stitch joining method are:
The Braided Puff Coffee Cozy is a beautifully textured crochet project that is the perfect accessory for any coffee lover. The braided puff stitch provides a lovely visual interest while it also helps keep ahold of that glorious cup of joe. The whole cozy uses advanced beginner stitches to create this fun project, and you can whip one up in about 30 minutes!
The Iris Market Bag is the perfect quick beginner market bag pattern! It uses simple stitches and an easy construction to create this fun and beautiful tote. This crochet market bag pattern is a great option for a crochet project on the go, and it can be super fast to work up as well! If you know how to double crochet and chain, you can crochet this beautiful Iris Market Bag.
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Thanks for creating with me!
-Chelsey
Hi there! I’m Chelsey!
Welcome to my blog God’s Gift of Creativity! Join me as I share my love for crochet, crafts, and cooking and show you how you can do it too!
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