Joins rounds and moves across stitches invisibly. BeginnerUS: sl stUK: ss
In US terms this is the Slip Stitch (sl st). In UK terms the same stitch is called the Slip Stitch (ss). They are the identical stitch — only the name changes. Not sure which system a pattern uses? If it mentions a single crochet, it's US; if it mentions a half treble, it's UK. Convert any pattern with the US ↔ UK tool.
Video tutorial — pick your hand
Every stitch in Crochets has a mirrored lesson for lefties — no more mentally flipping videos.
🎬 Right-handed video by The Woobles on YouTube.
How to crochet the Slip Stitch — step by step
Insert hook into the stitch
Yarn over
Pull through both the stitch and the loop on your hook
Instructions use US terms. Working left-handed? Do exactly the same moves as a mirror image — insert the hook from the same side of the stitch, working from left to right instead of right to left.
Where to use it
These are the stitches every pattern is built from. Master the tension on these and everything above them gets easier.
Common mistakes with the Slip Stitch
Counting the turning chain as a stitch when the pattern says not to (or vice versa) — this is the number-one cause of rows that shrink or grow.
Working into the wrong loop: unless told otherwise, insert your hook under both top loops of the stitch below.
Pulling the yarn tight after every pull-through — keep the loops loose enough to slide freely on the hook.
Planning a project with the Slip Stitch? Use the free yarn calculator to work out how many skeins you need, and the foundation chain calculator to get the width right the first time.
The Slip Stitch has the same name in UK and US terminology, abbreviated sl st.
Is the Slip Stitch good for beginners?
It is a beginner stitch — you can learn it in your first week. Joins rounds and moves across stitches invisibly.
Can I crochet the Slip Stitch left-handed?
Yes. Left-handed crocheters work the same stitch as a mirror image — right to left becomes left to right. Crochets includes a left-handed video for the Slip Stitch, and its pattern tools write instructions in your working direction.
What is the Slip Stitch used for?
These are the stitches every pattern is built from. Master the tension on these and everything above them gets easier.
Learn the Slip Stitch in your hand, at your pace
Crochets has 300 stitches with right- and left-handed videos, a pattern designer that writes the pattern for you, and a photo preview of your finished piece. Free to start.