#Fair Isle Friday Series {week 1}

Have you guys jumped on the Fair Isle Crochet train yet? This stitch is super special to me. It’s the stitch that pushed me to publish my first crochet pattern. I stumbled upon the center single crochet stitch this past summer.

I searched EVERYWHERE for a hat pattern & found nothing. So being the DIYer that I am, I came up with my own pattern. If I was looking for the pattern I’m sure others were too!  Because of that, I really wanted to share this with everyone. *Update* Now I have a free Ikat Hat Pattern and Woodland Basket that uses the center single crochet stitch.

If you have tried the center single crochet stitch, also known as the waistcoat stitch, you know it’s a very tight stitch. Just keeping your tension loose is not enough. The tips in the video will help make it easier to insert your hook and you can finish your hat without pulling out your hair.

Center Single Crochet Stitch

4 Center Single Crochet Tips

      1. Use a larger hook, I have this one. An aluminum hook with a pointy tip is helpful.
      2. Crochet loosely.
      3. Working in the round is best.
      4. Use the “No-Cut Join Method” for joining at the end of each round. This seamless join will help keep your stitches from slanting.

Here’s another knit-look stitch you’ll love. Try it with the double brim crochet beanie pattern.

I’m doing a 4-week #Fair Isle Friday series just for you. Each Friday I will share a new tip, everything you need to know to get the faux knit look.

tips to make the center single crochet stitch easier, video tutorialIf you are ready to put the waistcoat stitch to work, here are a few crochet patterns to try.


Mittens / Chunky Hat / Medium Weight Hat