Crochet Slip Stitch

By Janice     |Published 03-25-2020

Crochet Slip Stitch abbreviated -  ss

The slip stitch is rarely covered as an actual crochet stitch because it's main purpose is to move from one place on a piece of fabric, or as an edge when finishing off a project.

You could work the stitch in rows, but the stitch is so short that the fabric you create would be so dense.  But if dense is what you need such as making handles for a bag or tote, they the slip stitch is very practical.  

The only other reasons for using a slip stitch is to join a new ball of yarn or join rounds if you are doing circular crochet.  In fact, circular crochet is likely the place where you would see this stitch used the most.

Working a crochet slip stitch with blue yarn

How to Make the Slip Stitch in a Row

Make a foundation chain to the length required and add one chain.  Insert the hook into the second chain from the hook.

Turn the hook so it is facing you, wrap the yarn around the hook and draw through both stitches.

To continue, insert the hook into the next chain stitch, wrap the yarn around the hook and draw through both stitches.  Continue in this manner for the rest of the row.

How to Use the Slip Stitch Crochet to form a Foundation Ring

Steps for making a crochet ring using a slip stitch

You can use the slip stitch to form a foundation ring for circular crochet.

To begin, make the required number of chain stitches for the ring.

Insert the hook through the first chain stitch made.  Wrap the yarn around the hook and draw up a loop. Pull through both stitches.

Using the Crochet Slip Stitch as an Edging

Flat Contrasting Edge

Flat Contrasting Edge using a crochet slip stitch

There may be a couple of reasons why you might want to use the slip stitch as an edging around a piece of fabric.

First, if you are looking for a very simple edge, say in a different color, the slip stitch won't add much to the length or width, but it can add a bit of contrast.

To add a slip stitch edging, simply go around the finished fabric working into the stitches you've already finished.  Don't pull to tight or the fabric won't lay flat.

Stabilizing Edge

If you are working a lacy fabric and the edge is too flimsy, you might decide to stabilize it with a row of slip stitches in the same color and fiber as the finished piece.  Don't pull each stitch too tight.  You'll find that a slip stitch edge is nearly invisible by doing it this way.

Did you find the crochet slip stitch helpful?

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