How to crochet the foundation single crochet

Have you ever gotten a pattern that asks you to crochet the foundation single crochet (Fsc)? I know the first time I came across it, I had to look up a tutorial. And, because I’m starting to use this fabulous technique in my patterns, I’ve made a tutorial just for you so you don’t have to go searching for it!

About the Foundation Single Crochet

First and foremost, the foundation single crochet is a chain-less way to start a project when the first row of the pattern calls for a single crochet. In just a few steps, the foundation chain and the first row of single crochet are worked simultaneously.

Keep in mind that this method can also be used for half double crochet, double crochet and so on. This tutorial just provides instructions for the single crochet version.

Advantages

When it’s appropriate, beginning a project with the foundation single crochet provides a number of advantages.

A long foundation chain can be difficult to count. Fsc stitches are as easy to count as a normal row because the tops of the Fsc are the loops of the single crochet stitch. Counting the top loops is just like any other row.
Fsc creates an edge that is more flexible than a traditional foundation chain which has a tendency to more rigid. That’s great for a project that requires some give along the beginning edge.
The bottom edge of the Fsc is clean and a bit more refined than the traditional foundation chain which works well for garments and projects that don’t have an added edging.

Disadvantages

As with any technique, there are some ways that Fsc can add work rather than save time. Knowing the disadvantages helps but don’t let it keep you from learning this useful technique.

It can be difficult at first to get the proper tension and concise stitches needed. For me, the trick was getting the Fsc tight enough to match the tension of the rest of the piece. But you may end up working it too tightly. Be patient and experiment with the steps to see how you can get them more consistent.
It takes time and practice for most crocheters to make the perfect row of Fsc. Be willing to give yourself the grace to learn and improve.
After working the first Fsc, it can be difficult to figure out where to insert your hook to start the next stitch (as in step 5 below). You may want to place a marker in the loop made in step 3 to identify the chain part of the stitch.

How to Foundation Single Crochet

I have two ways you can learn to foundation single crochet. Following is a step by step photo tutorial.

If you prefer video tutorials, scroll down 👇

Step 1: Make a slip knot and chain 2.

Step 2: Insert hook in the 2nd chain from the hook. Yarn over and pull up a loop (2 loops on the hook).

Step 3: Insert hook in the left hand loop only, yarn over and pull up a loop. This step makes the chain portion of the Fsc. Hot tip: Place a marker in the loop just made to identify the chain stitch.

Step 4: Yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook. This completes the single crochet portion of the Fsc and also completes the first stitch in the row.

Step 5 & 6: Now we move on to the next stitch in the row. Insert the hook in the chain of the previous stitch (where you may have placed the optional marker in step 3). Yarn over and pull up a loop.