How to Slip Stitch in Crochet (sl st): Joining, Seaming & Surface Embellishment
The shortest and most versatile stitch in crochet! Learn how to use the slip stitch (sl st) to join rounds seamlessly, assemble granny square motifs with flat seams, and add embroidery-like surface detailing.
Pattern Inspiration & Design Notes
Whether you are decorating your home for the autumn season or crafting gifts for friends, this pattern was designed from the ground up for relaxation and clean, crisp stitch definition.
One of the most common frustrations in crochet is vague sizing or running out of yarn right at the final row. That is why every stitch in this tutorial has been physically crocheted, swatch-tested, and audited with our designated 4.5 mm (US 7) hook.
How to Slip Stitch in Crochet (sl st): Joining, Seaming & Surface Embellishment
Original Pattern by easycrochetdrop • crochetpatterndrop StudioMaterials Checklist(Click to check off supplies)
0 / 4 ReadyGauge & Tension Calibration
Standard Swatch: Shortest stitch; adds zero vertical height using Slip Stitch (sl st) with your designated 4.5 mm (US 7) hook.
Important Pattern Notes
- Stitch Abbreviation: 'sl st' stands for Slip Stitch in both US and UK terminology.
- Zero Height: A slip stitch adds almost zero vertical height to your fabric, making it ideal for traveling across rows or sealing circles.
- Joining in the Round: Always insert your hook under both loops of the round's first true stitch, never into the turning chain.
- Flat Seam Assembly: Placing two pieces right sides together and slip stitching through inner loops creates an elastic, durable seam.
- Surface Crochet: Keeping yarn beneath your fabric and working slip stitches on top produces chain embroidery lines across blankets.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Direct Insert & Single-Motion Pull Through
To execute a basic slip stitch, start with 1 loop on your hook.
Insert your hook under both loops of the target stitch from front to back.
Yarn over and catch the working yarn in the hook notch.
In one smooth, fluid motion, draw the yarn through the stitch AND directly through the loop already resting on your hook.
Step 2: Seamless Round Closure into First Stitch
When working joined rounds (like hats, circles, or granny squares), finish the final stitch of the round.
Locate the very first true stitch made at the beginning of the round (not the beginning turning chain).
Insert your hook under both top loops of that first stitch.
Yarn over and pull through the stitch and loop on your hook to close the circular round cleanly with zero gap.
Step 3: Invisible Seaming & Flat Edge Joining
To join two granny squares or sweater panels, place pieces with Right Sides facing each other.
Align corresponding stitches along the seam edges.
Insert your hook through the front loop only of piece A and the back loop only of piece B.
Yarn over and draw a slip stitch through. Repeat along the edge for a flat, flexible, professional seam.
Tag @stitchandpetal on Instagram so we can share your finished make!
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common gauge, yarn weight, and technique inquiries
Yes! Known as 'Bosnian Crochet', fabric made entirely of slip stitches worked into the back loop creates a dense, remarkably stretchy ribbed fabric that looks identical to knit brioche.
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