If you’re new to crochet, you might have heard the terms “yarn over” and “yarn under” and wondered what they mean. These terms are often used when talking about single crochet, which is a basic stitch in crochet. But what is yarn over single crochet, what is yarn under single crochet, and what’s the difference between the two? Let’s take a closer look.
First, let’s define what we mean by “yarn over” and “yarn under.” Yarn over (abbreviated as “yo”) means that you bring the yarn over the hook from the back to the front, while yarn under (abbreviated as “yu”) means that you bring the yarn under the hook from the front to the back.
What is Yarn Over Single Crochet?
Yarn over single crochet is a technique where the hook is inserted into the stitch, then the yarn is brought over the hook from back to front before pulling it through the stitch. This creates a loop on the hook, which is then pulled through the two loops already on the hook to complete the single crochet stitch.
When working single crochet, the standard method is to yarn over the hook before inserting it into the next stitch. This is called yarn over single crochet (abbreviated as “yo sc”). Here’s how to do it:
1. Insert your hook into the next stitch.
2. Yarn over, bringing the yarn over the hook from the back to the front.
3. Pull the yarn through the stitch (you should now have two loops on your hook).
4. Yarn over again.
5. Pull the yarn through both loops on your hook.
This completes one single crochet stitch. Yarn over single crochet is the most common way to work single crochet, and it creates looser, almost v-shaped stitches.
What is Yarn Under Single Crochet?
Yarn under single crochet is a technique where the yarn is held under the hook, instead of over it as in yarn over single crochet. To use this technique, the hook is inserted into the stitch, then the yarn is brought under the hook from front to back before pulling it through the stitch. This creates a loop on the hook, which is then pulled through the two loops already on the hook to complete the single crochet stitch.
But there’s another way to work single crochet that involves bringing the yarn under the hook instead of over it. This is called yarn under single crochet (abbreviated as “yu sc”). Here’s how to do it:
1. Insert your hook into the next stitch.
2. Bring the yarn under the hook from the front to the back.
3. Pull the yarn through the stitch (you should now have two loops on your hook).
4. Yarn over (bringing the yarn over the hook from the back to the front).
5. Pull the yarn through both loops on your hook.
The yarn under single crochet technique is less commonly used than yarn over single crochet, but it has its advantages. It creates a fabric that is tighter and fuller than yarn over single crochet, which makes it ideal for certain types of projects such as amigurumi or other stuffed toys.
What’s the difference between the two?
The main difference between yarn over single crochet and yarn under single crochet is the direction of the yarn as it is pulled through the stitch. In yarn over single crochet, the yarn is brought over the hook from back to front, while in yarn under single crochet, the yarn is brought under the hook from front to back. This creates a difference in the way the fabric looks and feels.
Yarn over single crochet creates a smooth and even fabric, while yarn under single crochet creates a tighter and more textured fabric. Additionally, yarn under single crochet requires less yarn than yarn over single crochet, as the yarn is held closer to the fabric and does not need to be wrapped around the hook as much. To crochet a ball of the same size, I use more tension when doing the yarn over single crochet.
Which technique should you use?
The choice between yarn over single crochet and yarn under single crochet depends on the project you are working on and the desired outcome. Usually, I use yarn over single crochet when making bags, blankets, and garments. When making amigurumi, I think yarn under single crochet is the better choice.
In conclusion, yarn over single crochet and yarn under single crochet are two techniques that are commonly used in crocheting. Both techniques have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on the project and the desired outcome. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crocheter, it is always good to have a range of techniques in your arsenal to create beautiful and unique pieces.
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