Surface slip stitch is a simple technique for adding detail to your crochet projects. Essentially, they are slip stitches worked into the fabric of already crocheted pieces, almost like you are drawing on the existing stitches! I use this technique in the Valentine's Pink Anthurium crochet pattern to enhance the veins of the flowers and leaves. Initially, I considered embroidering the veins on the flowers and leaves, but after some trial and error, I concluded that the surface slip stitch technique provided the extra flair I was looking for.
The surface slip stitches create a beautiful design that looks like a chain on the fabric of a crocheted piece. This technique makes it seem as if a chain has been skillfully added to the surface, giving both texture and visual interest. The stitches are carefully placed to improve the overall look, turning a simple crocheted item into an artfully decorated piece. The result is both subtle and striking, making it an appealing detail in any crochet project.
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Why use a surface slip stitch?
In addition to adding fun details to your crochet projects, a surface slip stitch offers many other benefits that enhance your work. They can be used to:
- Hide the edge of a project, giving it a cleaner finish.
- Add more color or detail to a project.
- Create designs on your work, such as different shapes or even names.
- Add colored stripes to blankets or other crochet projects.
- Reduce the amount of sewing needed for amigurumi pieces.
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How to Make Surface Slip Stitches
If you’d prefer, you can start with a slipknot on your hook for added security; however, I personally do not like using slipknots in my amigurumi pieces. Instead, you can simply pull up a loop of yarn, which I will demonstrate in the next steps.
Moreover, when you work into these back bumps, the stitches formed from the foundation chain tend to be tighter and have less inherent stretch. This tighter tension helps to close up any potential holes, resulting in a more seamless and visually appealing piece. Overall, using this technique not only enhances the integrity of your work but also ensures that your amigurumi has a clean and professional look.
Step 1
Insert the hook into the work from front to back at the point where you want to begin the surface slip stitch. Wrap the yarn around the hook. Hold the yarn behind your work, ensuring the starting yarn tail is positioned at the back.
Step 2
Pull a loop through your work.
Step 3
Insert the hook into the next “hole.” Depending on the pattern or design, this may be the next stitch or row/round.
Step 4
Yarn over, pull a loop through your work.
Step 5
Pull this loop through the loop on the hook, completing a slip stitch.
Step 6
Continue steps 1-5 to complete the designated surface slip stitches according to the pattern or design. Once you have completed your surface slip stitches, fasten off and weave in the ends.
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Want to practice this skill?
Consider making this pattern
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