What is a Crochet Slip Stitch? A Beginner’s Guide to the SL ST

Understanding the Crochet Slip Stitch (SL ST)

The crochet slip stitch, often abbreviated as sl st, is one of the most basic and versatile stitches in crochet. It’s often the first stitch new crocheters learn after the chain stitch. Don’t let its simplicity fool you; the slip stitch plays a crucial role in various crochet projects.

Think of it as the unsung hero of crochet. It’s quick to execute and can significantly impact the quality and appearance of your finished work.

What is a Slip Stitch Used For?

The slip stitch has several key applications:

Joining rounds: It’s commonly used to seamlessly connect the end of a round to the beginning, especially when working in circular crochet.
Fastening off: The slip stitch helps secure your work when you’re finished with a project. It creates a neat and tidy finish.
Moving across stitches: It allows you to move across a row or round without adding height. This is useful for creating specific design elements or surface crochet.
Creating edgings: A row of slip stitches can form a simple, clean edging around a project.

How to Crochet a Slip Stitch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a simple breakdown of how to create a slip stitch:

Insert your hook: Insert your crochet hook into the stitch you want to work into. Remember to identify the top loops of the stitch (the ‘V’ shape) on the top of the chain or row.
Yarn over: Wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front.
Pull through: Pull the yarn through the stitch you inserted your hook into. You’ll now have two loops on your hook.
Slip the loop: Pull the loop on your hook through the other loop that’s already on the hook. This ‘slips’ one loop through the other, hence the name ‘slip stitch’. You should now have only one loop remaining on your hook.

Does a Slip Stitch Count as a Stitch?

This is a common question, and the answer is: it depends! Whether or not a slip stitch counts as a stitch depends on the specific pattern you’re following.

If you’re working a round consisting *only* of slip stitches, then yes, each slip stitch counts as a stitch. However, when using a slip stitch to join rounds, it often doesn’t count as a stitch. Always refer to your pattern for clarification.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even though it’s a simple stitch, beginners can sometimes make mistakes. Here are a few common ones and how to avoid them:

Tight slip stitches: Avoid pulling the yarn too tightly when creating the stitch. This can make it difficult to work into the following stitches. Try to keep your tension relaxed.
Skipping stitches: Make sure you’re inserting your hook into the correct stitch. Double-check your pattern and count your stitches if needed.
Confusing with a single crochet: While similar, the slip stitch involves pulling the yarn through *both* the stitch and the loop on your hook in one motion. A single crochet involves an extra yarn over.

Advanced Uses of the Slip Stitch

Beyond the basics, the slip stitch can be used for more advanced techniques:

Surface crochet: Use slip stitches to create decorative designs on the surface of your finished crochet project. This is a great way to add personalized details.
Creating texture: By working slip stitches in different loops (front loop only, back loop only), you can create interesting textures.
Strengthening edges: A row of slip stitches along an edge can help prevent stretching and maintain the shape of your project.

Slip Stitch vs. Other Basic Stitches

Let’s briefly compare the slip stitch to other fundamental crochet stitches:

Stitch	Height	Common Uses
Slip Stitch (SL ST)	Shortest	Joining rounds, fastening off, moving across stitches
Single Crochet (SC)	Low	Creating dense fabrics, amigurumi
Half Double Crochet (HDC)	Medium	Creating a fabric that is not too dense, but not too loose
Double Crochet (DC)	Tall	Creating open fabrics, blankets

Understanding these differences will help you choose the right stitch for your desired outcome.

Conclusion

The crochet slip stitch is a simple yet essential stitch that every crocheter should master. Its versatility makes it invaluable for various techniques and projects. Practice the slip stitch, experiment with its different uses, and you’ll find it becomes an indispensable part of your crochet toolkit. Happy crocheting!