In this free step-by-step crochet tutorial I show how to make a center single crochet (csc). This stitch is also known as a waistcoat stitch or a knit stitch due to its similar look to knitting stitches. As it is a variation of a single crochet (sc) and the only difference is where you insert your hook: for a single crochet you work in the top of the stitch and insert your hook under the two loops of the stitch, while for a center single crochet you work in the center of the stitch (in the center of ‘v’s).
This detailed photo tutorial shows how to work in rows and in continuous rounds. Personally, I prefer the look of the waistcoat stitch when worked in rounds. If your project requires working in rows, instead of working in rows as usual, where you turn your work after every row, you could cut the yarn at the end of each row, don’t turn your work around and start working from the beginning of the row. In this way, you would be working only in one direction. The stitches would be a bit more even and, in my opinion, it is a bit easier to work. But you are welcome to choose the method you prefer!
For this stitch you could use a hook that is one size larger than you would usually use. The reason for this is that a center single crochet stitch can become a bit tight, and it might be hard to insert the hook in the middle of the post unless you use a larger hook or keep the tension a bit looser. Also, keep in mind that the fabric made with this stitch is quite thick.
Materials and tools
Yarn: For this tutorial I use Soft FRAYA Cotton 8/4 100% Organic cotton 50g – 180 m yarn, color: sand. However, you can use your favorite yarn depending on the crochet project.
Hook: I use a 2.0 mm hook. If you are using a different yarn, choose the hook size that is recommended on your yarn label.
Printable PDF and chart
This free crochet tutorial includes detailed photo instructions and written steps. If, in addition to photo instructions, you would like a short written pattern and a chart, join Nordic Hook Club and get access to one of the largest crochet stitch libraries! There you will find hundreds of ad-free downloadable crochet stitch tutorials that include detailed step-by-step photo instructions, concise written patterns and member-exclusive charts. Plus, you can download all Nordic Hook patterns, stitches and e-books for free! Read more about all the membership benefits here and sign up today.
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Photo instructions for the waistcoat stitch working in rows
Row 1
1. Start by chaining any number of chains. You will start working in the second chain from your hook.
2. So, make a single crochet in the second chain from your hook.
3. Continue making single crochets in every stitch until the end of the row.
Row 2
4. Chain one and turn your work around. Chain one does not count as a stitch. Next you will make a center single crochet working under the horizontal loop and to the left of the vertical loop.
5. On the other side, your hook should come out in the middle of the V.
6. So, insert your hook under the horizontal loop and to the left of the vertical loop.
7. Make sure that it comes out in the middle of the V on the other side.
8. Yarn over.
9. Pull the yarn through. Now you have two loops on your hook.
10. Yarn over.
11. Pull the yarn through both loops. You have just made a center single crochet!
12. This is how it looks on the other side.
13. Next you will insert your hook under the next horizontal loop and to the left of the inverted V.
14. On the other side, your hook should come out in the middle of the next V.
15. So, insert your hook in the next stitch.
16. Yarn over.
17. Pull the yarn through. Now you have two loops on your hook.
18. Yarn over.
19. Pull the yarn through both loops.
20. This is how it looks on the other side.
21. Continue making center single crochets in every stitch.
22. Work in the same way until the end of the row.
Row 3
23. This is how it looks on the other side. For the rest of the pattern repeat row 2.
Finished waistcoat stitch working in rows
24. Done!
Photo instructions for the waistcoat stitch working in rounds
Round 1
1. Start by chaining any number of chains. You will connect the chain to its beginning to work in continuous rounds.
2. So, make sure that the chain is not twisted and insert your hook in the first chain.
3. Yarn over.
4. Pull the yarn through. Now you have two loops on your hook.
5. Pull the first loop through the second one. You have just made a slip stitch.
Round 2
6. Chain one. It does not count as a stitch.
7. Make a single crochet in the very first chain where you made a slip stitch.
8. Make another single crochet in the next stitch.
9. Continue making single crochets in every stitch until the end of the row. Next you will insert your hook in the middle of the V of the first stitch.
10. On the other side, your hook should come out to the right of the inverted V.
11. So, insert your hook in the middle of the V of the first single crochet.
12. Make sure that the hook comes out to the right of the inverted V on the other side.
13. Yarn over.
14. Pull the yarn through. Now you have two loops on your hook.
15. Yarn over.
16. Pull the yarn through both loops. You have just made a center single crochet.
17. Then make another center single crochet in the next stitch.
18. Continue making center single crochets in every stitch until the end of the round.
Round 3
19. At the end of the round don’t join with a slip stitch, instead continue working in the first stitch of the previous round. For the rest of the pattern repeat round 2.
Finished waistcoat stitch working in rounds
20. Done!
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