How to Easily Foundation Single Crochet (FSC)
Do you hate chaining your first round or row? If you think it makes a project look a little messy, you're not alone. If you just find it a slightly annoying way to start, that's pretty normal, too. Luckily, there are alternatives. For example, try the Foundation Single Crochet, abbreviated as Fsc. This will give you a fast start to a crochet project that is also much neater in appearance.
The Benefits of a Foundation Single Crochet:
The Foundation Single Crochet has a neat and clean start from both sides. So the look of your first row looks like your last row. This method uses a technique that is so closely related to Tunisian crochet it's like its child.
Using the Fsc also created a flexible and stretchy row, which has a better tension than doing chain stitches, and will most likely match the tension of your project better.
The Foundation Single Crochet eliminates frustration and has a beautiful top and bottom to each stitch, which is easy to see and count. Work your starting row with one step.
If you have ever used the Tunisian Stitch, this method is somewhat similar in that we will be working vertically instead of horizontally for the first part of the stitch.
When Can I Use The Foundation Single Crochet?
You can substitute beginning chains in almost any pattern for foundation crochet stitches. Let's say a pattern calls for starting the first row or round with 50 chains. Instead of chaining 50, create 50 foundation single crochet sts.
The only thing to look out for is if there is a turning chain included in the chain stitches. Still use the turning chain as instructed.
Patterns for Practicing the Foundation Single Crochet:
These patterns all use the Fsc. Get your practice in:
What you will need to learn the Fsc
Grab a Hook. I used the H (5.0mm) Odyssey Hook from Furls Crochet.
Gather Yarn. I used Chic Sheep from Red Heart Yarns
Optional: use a stitch marker to keep track of stitches if necessary.
Foundation Single Crochet (Right Hand) Video
Foundation Single Crochet (Left Hand) Video
Disclosure: To cover the cost of publishing my blog and bringing you awesome content, this page may contain affiliate links. Should you choose to make a purchase, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small percentage of the sale.
Favorite Crochet Hooks:
Foundation Single Crochet Written Instructions
Step 1: Make a slip knot and chain 2.
Step 2: Insert the hook into the first chain under the two loops, yarn over, and pull through these two loops. (2 loops on the hook)
Step 3: Yarn over and pull through one loop, this just created a chain stitch. (2 loops on hook)
Step 4: Yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops on the hook. This has created your first stitch.
Now let's get started creating your next foundation single crochet stitch.
Step 5: First, insert your hook into the chain stitch previously created. Then, yarn over, and pull through the chain stitch.
Step 6: Yarn over and pull through one loop, creating a chain stitch.
Step 7: Yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops on the hook. This has created your next stitch.
Step 8: YO and pull through both loops on the hook. Continue steps 6-8 until you reach your desired foundation sc length.
Repeat steps 5-8 for each stitch needed.
If You Like This Tip, Then You Might Also Like:
Crochet & Tag
I hope you have enjoyed this crochet tutorial!
Check out More Crochet Tutorials right here on the blog.
If you have made this, please share it on social media. Above all, I love to see the projects created with my patterns and also share your beautiful work.
Please use #brianakdesigns or @brianakdesigns
It is much appreciated and adored!
