When starting a new crochet project, you have a few choices.

You can start with a magic ring (for hats and circular projects).

You can start with a chain.

Or, you can start with a chainless foundation.

When creating projects in rows (like blankets and hats that need to be stitched up), I personally prefer starting with a chainless foundation for a few reasons.

First of all, you bypass an entire step that saves time.

Starting with a chainless foundation bypasses the entire need of a chain, so you’re really combining the chain and the first row into one.

HUZZAH!

Secondly, I find that the starting row looks much more uniform when using a chainless foundation.

Maybe it’s just me, but making a chain and then working stitches into the chain can quickly become messy.

When you’re new to crocheting, it’s not the easiest thing to keep your chains looking 100% uniform because you HAVE to keep the perfect amount of tension. And keeping uniform tension as a beginner can be a bit maddening.

That’s why starting with a chainless foundation can be even more beginner-friendly than a starting chain.

Or, if you just want to save a step in your project.

It’s easier to keep a uniform tension and it bypasses and entire step in the process.

Many of the projects & free patterns that I share here on the blog start with a chainless foundation for those reasons. So let’s get into it!

How to make a chainless foundation

To demonstrate, I’ll be making a chainless foundation using half double crochet – although you can create one with double or single crochet too

Video Tutorial

Written instructions

For a half double crochet chainless foundation, start by chaining 3.

Yarn over.

Insert hook into first chain.

You should have 3 loops on your hook as pictured below.

Next, you will yarn over and pull through the first loop on your hook.

Now you have created your first chain with 3 loops on the hook as pictured below.

Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops.

Now you have completed your first chainless foundation stitch!

 

Repeat as follows:

Yarn over.

Insert hook into first foundation chain stitch underneath.

Yarn over.

Pull through 1 loop on hook.

Yarn over.

Pull through all 3 loops on hook.

Repeat as needed for your desired length.

It’s as easy as that!

Now you’re ready to start a new crochet project and save time – woo!

Ready to give it a spin???

Try making this hat to practice your new skills on.

Now that you know how to make a chainless foundation, will you ever go back to regular chains?

I wanna know – leave me a comment below!