Ads allow content creators to provide free useful and compelling content to the public. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. See the Affiliates and Disclosures page in the top menu of this website for detailed information.
Linked single crochet stitch
The linked single crochet stitch is a little bit of a unique crochet technique that sets it apart from traditional single crochet stitches. This stitch is special because it creates a more solid and dense crochet project compared to regular single crochet.
This beginner-friendly crochet stitch connects each stitch to the previous one. Iwill demonstrate below in images and show examples of it used in finished projects.
Linking stitches simply means instead of inserting the hook into the top loops of the previous stitch, you insert it into the previous stitch before working the current stitch, thus linking the two together. This creates a tighter and more secure connection, resulting in a project that is less likely to stretch or have gaps between stitches.
Here you see it used in a crochet spa set, the linked stitches create a waffle-like texture, and to keep it flexible and soft a larger hook is used.
Another advantage of the linked single crochet stitch is its versatility. It can be used in a variety of crochet projects, from blankets and scarves to garments and accessories. The dense texture of the stitch makes it ideal for creating warm and cozy items, while also adding a beautiful textured pattern to your work.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, the linked single crochet stitch is a technique worth exploring. It’s easy to learn and can elevate your crochet projects to the next level.
When to use linked single crochet stitches
As shown in the image, you can see the linked single crochet stitch has quite a bit more texture than a regular single crochet. I wrote in all of my posts on low and no stretch crochet straps that linked stitches provide support and decrease the amount of stretch or droop regular unlinked stitches have.
See the 4 types of low and no stretch bag straps.
You may find these posts helpful
- How to tie off a crochet project
- One skein crochet projects
- How to soften acrylic yarn
- How to read a crochet pattern
- How to pick yarn for a project
- What is your crochet skill level
- Which are the best crochet hooks
- 5 tips for mastering crochet as a beginner
- How to read a yarn label
- 5 essential tools every beginner needs
Linked stitches are a bit denser than regular stitches. You work 50% more yarn into each stitch which gives great texture. Adjusting hook size will give you the drape or stiffness you want for your projects.
Linked single crochet will help your garments and bags keep their shape and lessen the chance they will stretch out leaving you a bit disappointed in the final result.
Linked stitches can also make beautifully textured blankets when keeping the hook size big enough to allow flexibility. If you want a heavier cotton blanket for that weighted blanket feel in the summer months, a linked single crochet with a soft cotton yarn is a great option. I cover this near the end of the post if you’d like to consider making a crochet weighted blanket.
I alternated single crochet and linked single crochet in this farmhouse striped dishtowel. Using a larger hook it has drape and density make it good for a weightier blanket.
I used it for this crochet pet bowl mat because it is so absorbent due to the extra cotton yarn it requires to make the stitch. Customize the size to cover the splash area your cat or dog makes when drinking from (or playing in) their water bowl.
See the free crochet pet bowl mat pattern here and try your hand with the linked single crochet stitch.
How to make the linked single crochet stitch
Because this is all single crochet variant you don’t need a specific number of odd or even stitches to work up a swatch.
To work a sample, chain any amount.
In second ch from hook, work a sc.
Put hook back into stitch you just made your stitch in, pull up a loop then insert into next stitch.
Pull up a loop then pull through all three loops on hook. That is your first linked single crochet stitch.
Continue to do this to the end of the row.
Chain 1 and turn.
To work rows 2- xx, work single crochet into first stitch then begin link stitch sequence from first row.
Crochet a weighted cotton blanket
Worsted weight cotton isn’t a light yarn, but it is a cool yarn great for warm weather. Using this stitch to create a heavy but not hot blanket is a great option for people who enjoy and/or benefit from the comfort of a weighty blanket over their body to rest and help calm feelings of anxiety.
If you get hot at night, this cooling sheet/blanket really works (I promise)! Some wizardry of a fiber feels icy cool.
I like the soft budget friendly Hobby Lobby I love this cotton yarn for blankets as I live in a warm climate.
To get the most weight, use this dense linked single crochet stitch and make the piece large enough that it can be doubled over. This could potentially give 5 pounds of pressure when laid over the body. Try using a hook size of 6mm to keep the blanket flexible yet dense.
I suggested the weight of cotton for this baby blanket to shield baby from the sun in a stroller without overheating.