US sl st · UK ss · beginner

Slip Stitch: step-by-step tutorial

A slip stitch is the shortest crochet stitch. Insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over, and pull the loop through both the stitch and the loop on the hook in one motion. Slip stitches join rounds, move yarn across a row, and create neat surface lines.

By the crochetpatterns.io editorial team · Reviewed September 13, 2026 · Editorial policy

US terms UK terms

How to slip stitch, step by step

Insert the hook from front to back into the next stitch.
Yo once.
Pull the loop through the stitch and straight through the loop on the hook.
Check that 1 loop remains on the hook — 1 sl st made.
To join a round, work the sl st into the top of the first stitch of the round.

What is a slip stitch used for in crochet?

A slip stitch is used to join rounds, move the yarn to a new position without adding height, and finish edges. It adds almost no height to the fabric.

Worked in rows, slip stitches create a dense, stretchy fabric called slip stitch crochet, which is popular for ribbed hat brims when worked in the back loop only.

What is the difference between a slip stitch and a single crochet?

A slip stitch pulls the new loop through the stitch and the hook loop in one step, while a single crochet pulls through the stitch first and then yarns over again to pull through two loops.

The extra step gives single crochet visible height. A slip stitch sits flat against the fabric.

Why do my slip stitches get so tight?

Slip stitches tighten because there is no second yarn-over to loosen the loop. Lift each new loop up onto the full shaft of the hook before moving on.

When working rows of slip stitch, many crocheters go up one or two hook sizes to keep the fabric workable.