Welcome to the first post in the Crafty Cov Mom Skill Building series! Whether you're brand new to crochet or just brushing up on the basics, this is where it all begins: the slip knot.
This little stitch is the very first step in nearly every crochet project. And the best part? There are a few different ways to make it, so you can find the one that feels just right for your hands and rhythm.
What is a Slip Knot?
A slip knot is the adjustable loop you place on your crochet hook to begin your starting chain. It forms the foundation for the rest of your stitches and is designed to tighten securely but also release easily when needed.
Fun fact: if you’ve read my post on the Magic Circle, you’ll know it’s a fancy version of the slip knot, designed specifically for crocheting in the round — especially when you don’t want a hole in the center of your work. You can check that post out here.
Materials You'll Need
- Yarn (any kind works — use what you have!)
- Crochet hook (check your yarn label for a recommended size)
- Bonus tip: Choose a smooth, light-colored yarn for practice — it's easier to see your stitches.
3 Ways to Make a Slip Knot
Let’s walk through three beginner-friendly ways to make your slip knot. Try them all and choose the one that feels most natural to you!
- The Loop & Pull Method (most common)
- Make a loop with your yarn, laying the tail over the working yarn.
- Reach through the loop with your fingers
- Grab the working yarn and pull it through the loop.
- Gently pull the tail to tighten the loop
- The Finger Wrap Method (my favorite)
- Wrap the yarn around two fingers twice, crossing the first round with the second
- Pull the back loop under the front loop
- Pull off your fingers
- Tighten by pulling the working yarn.
- The Hook Method
- Drape the yarn over your hook to form an "X."
- Twist the hook and grab the working yarn underneath.
- Pull a loop through and adjust the tension.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Loop too tight? Loosen your tension and gently tug the hook upward as you form the knot.
- Loop too loose? Pull both the tail and the working yarn to snug things up before chaining.
- Loop slipping off? Be sure you’re pulling the working yarn, not the tail.
Watch It In Action!
What’s Next?
Now that you’ve made your very first stitch, you’re ready to move on to chain stitches — the real beginning of rows and rounds. Check out my post on the Chain Stitch to learn everything there is to know.
And if you’re curious about how slip knots evolve into magic circles, pop over to my Magic Circle tutorial too.
Pin, Save & Share
If you found this post helpful:
- 📌 Save it on Pinterest
- 💬 Leave a comment to let me know which method worked best for you
- 🧶 Share your first slip knot on Instagram using #CraftyCovSkillBuilding and tag @CraftyCovMom for a chance to be featured!
Keep Going, You're Doing Great 💖
Learning a new skill is a big deal — and you’ve just taken your very first step! Keep practicing and remember to have fun
Crochet with Heart and Color.
— Allison
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