Learn to Crochet Lesson One: How to Tie a Slip Knot

There are a lot of folks out there who are getting into crochet for the first time. Bravo! It's a wonderfully relaxing, creative, and rewarding hobby. I'd like to help encourage those who are new to crochet by providing a series of short lessons intended for complete novices. Today's post is the first in that series, a lesson on slip knots.

A slip knot is used to anchor your yarn to your hook so that you can start crocheting. Crochet is a series of interlocking loops, so you have to have a loop to start with before you can make anything. Here is how to tie a slip knot. When learning something new it's best to work with a light color of yarn. I've chosen Martha Stewart Extra Soft Wool Blend and a 5.5mm hook for this tutorial. I also recommend Lion Brand Vanna's Choice and a 6mm hook for novice crocheters.

Find the end of your yarn. You can pull from the outside of the skein or from the inside of the skein if your yarn is center-pull. Read the label to find out.

Cross the tail of your yarn over the rest of the strand. We will call the part of the strand that connects to the skein the 'working yarn'.

Put your index finger and thumb under the loop and get ready to grab the working yarn.

Grab and pull the working yarn through the loop.

Pinch the working yarn that you just pulled through. Tighten the slip knot by pulling on the tail with your other hand.

You now have a loop that can slide over your hook. Tighten the loop by pulling on the working yarn strand.

Insert your hook into the loop and tighten it until the loop is slightly snug on the hook. 

Congratulations! You have successfully made a slip knot and can now begin to crochet. Have any questions about this tutorial? Feel free to ask them in the comments.