Extended Single Crochet is a rare stitch to find. Which is really a shame, because it’s a great stitch! It’s very simple and easy, and it creates a nice fabric with lots of drape that isn’t too lacy or open. I haven’t designed a pattern with this stitch just yet, but I certainly hope to in the future! To get us all ready, here’s a video of how it’s done.
How to Crochet the Extended Single Crochet Stitch:
Written Instructions for the Extended Single Crochet Stitch:
Insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Yarn over, pull through first loop on hook (2 loops remain on hook). Yarn over, and pull through both loops on hook.
It’s just that simple! But because it is so rare, there doesn’t seem to be one standard abbreviation for it. I did some research and it’s missing completely from most stitch abbreviation lists, and when it is there it’s about 50/50 esc or exsc. Sometimes it’s listed as ex sc as well. Personally, I like esc for brevity, and it’s the abbreviation I’ll be using here on Moogly. It’s a stitch I really enjoy making, and one I hope to incorporate into patterns in the future. It’s particularly great for garments, such as sweaters or scarves, because it does tend to flow so nicely. I like to start each row of esc with a ch 1 for height, but play around with it and see if you like a ch 2 start better. It’s a fun stitch, and I hope you’ve enjoyed learning it!
Be sure to check out and like the moogly Facebook page to get the latest updates, links, and sneak peeks. Moogly is also on Pinterest, Twitter, and Tumblr – come join the fun! You can contact me via the Facebook page or at [email protected]. I’m happy to answer your questions and take private custom commissions!
Tammy says
That is so weird! I just did a hat and scarf set using this stitch and the granny stitch. My friend who I was teaching to crochet started doing this by mistake and when she showed me, I loved how loose the stitch was compared to a regular sc, so we named it the Kitty stitch (cause her name is Katherine). We had no idea it was an actual stitch! Wait til I tell her. lol
moogly says
Too funny Tammy! A lot of beginners actually mix this one up with the hdc too. Esc is a great stitch though, and I don’t know why it isn’t used more – but then I’m guilty of this myself. Guess I know what I need to do…
Emilee says
I do this occasionally when I have been doing double crochets for a long time and then switch to single crochet for the border. Good to know that it is a legitimate stitch!
I love your website, by the way. The Top Tens are my favorite! (And your patterns are awesome too!)
Emilee
pearl jam says
Thanks for sharing, I like this stitch better than the double crochet.
Pam says
how would I do an extended single crochet increase? The pattern I am using now is calling for it. Thank you so much.
Tamara Kelly says
Hi Pam! An increase is typically just two stitches worked into one stitch, whatever that stitch is. 🙂
Laurie says
I just printed a pattern from a Facebook post and the stitch was “1dc/sc in next stitch” and I had no idea what that meant because if you do a dc AND a sc in the same stitch you are doubling the amount of stitches. That is not the desired effect. This video looked like it would be what they were doing in the photos and I’ll be darned if that’s what it looks like in the pictures I have. Thank you so much for your help. I love your video blogs.
Laurie
Tamara Kelly says
Wow, how funny! So glad you were able to make the connection!