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How to fasten off crochet

To fasten off crochet, finish the last stitch, cut the working yarn leaving a 6 inch tail, then yarn over and pull the tail completely through the loop on the hook. Tug the tail gently to tighten the knot. Weave the tail into the fabric with a tapestry needle so the work cannot unravel.

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How to fasten off crochet — work in progress

How do you fasten off crochet step by step?

Fasten off crochet by pulling the cut yarn end through the final loop so it locks.

  1. Complete the final stitch of the pattern.
  2. Chain 1 if the pattern calls for it, to secure the last stitch.
  3. Cut the yarn, leaving a 6 inch (15 cm) tail — longer if you will sew with it.
  4. Yarn over with the tail and pull it all the way through the loop on the hook.
  5. Pull the tail gently until the loop closes tightly.

How long should the tail be when you fasten off?

The tail should be at least 6 inches (15 cm) when you fasten off so it can be woven in securely. Leave 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) if the tail will sew pieces together, such as amigurumi limbs.

What is an invisible fasten off?

An invisible fasten off finishes a round with a needle-made stitch that looks like a normal crochet stitch instead of a knot.

  1. Skip the slip stitch join; cut the yarn after the last stitch, leaving a 6 inch tail.
  2. Pull the tail straight up through the last stitch.
  3. Thread the tail on a tapestry needle.
  4. Pass the needle under both loops of the second stitch of the round, front to back.
  5. Insert the needle back into the center of the last stitch and pull to the size of a stitch.
  6. Weave in the tail on the wrong side.

How do you fasten off amigurumi?

Fasten off amigurumi by closing the final opening with a needle: pass the tail through the front loops of the remaining stitches, pull tight to cinch the hole closed, then push the needle through the stuffed piece and trim the tail flush.

Patterns to practise on

Frequently asked questions

Will fastened-off crochet unravel?

Crochet will not unravel from a proper fasten off once the tail is woven in securely.

Is fasten off the same as bind off?

Fasten off is the crochet term; bind off is the knitting term for finishing live stitches.

Should I cut the tail right after fastening off?

No. Weave the tail in first, then trim it close to the fabric.