How to Make a Slip Knot

The slip knot is a knot that can be easily tightened or loosened by pulling on the end of a strand of yarn. It’s made by forming a loop with the strand of yarn and then passing the end of that strand through the loop itself. The slip knot is also known as a “stopper knot,” which means that it prevents the yarn from slipping through an object or opening. It’s also a temporary knot – it can be easily undone.

In crochet, the slip knot is the most common method to start a crochet stitch or project.

Unless a pattern dictates otherwise, you will always start with a slip knot.

1. First, make a loop with your yarn with the long end draped over the short end.
2. Then make a second loop with the short end
3. Next, feed the second loop through the first loop
4. Finally, hold the second loop in place with your fingers, grab the long end, and pull it tight.

I find the leapfrog method the easiest to teach to new students.

1. Wrap the yarn around your right index finger twice.
2. Adjust the loops until they are in between the first and second knuckles. Then hold both ends in place underneath.
3. Then with your left hand, take the back loop and lift it over the front loop. Release it and let it rest on top of your right nailbed.
4. Then with your left hand again, pick up the (new) back loop and lift it up and over the (new) front loop and off the right finger completely. Ensure there is still one loop remaining on the right index finger.
5. While holding the ends in place, lift your right index finger until it forms a knot.