The foundation single crochet stitch (FSC) is a great alternative to start any piece that requires a long chain for the first row. Instead of creating a long chain and then going back to work into the chain, the FSC allows you to cut straight to the chase.
You can use the FSC stitch in any pattern. Just create the same number of FSC’s as stitches in the first row that the pattern calls for. If the first row calls for 80 single crochet stitches, make 80 FSC’s instead. It helps avoid missing stitches, makes the stitches easy to see, and gives a neat looking, stretchy edge.
Instructions:
Step 1: Begin with a slip knot, then chain two
Step 2: Insert your hook into the first chain stitch. Yarn over and pull up one loop. Make this loop nice and tall. (2 loops on hook)
Step 3: Yarn over and pull the yarn through the first loop on your hook. This will be your chain stitch. (2 loops on hook)
Step 4: Yarn over and pull through both loops. This finishes your first foundation crochet stitch.
Step 5: Insert your hook into the chain stitch from Step 3.
Step 6: Yarn over and pull up one loop, again making sure the loop is tall to keep the stitches from curving. (2 loops on hook)
Step 7: Yarn over and pull the yarn through the first loop. (2 loops on hook)
Step 8: Yarn over and pull through both loops. This makes your next foundation crochet stitch.
Step 9: Repeat steps 6 – 9 until you have the number of stitches needed for your project.
You’re completed row should look like this.
You can now continue on to your next row in your pattern.