LEARN HOW TO CROCHET - TURNING CHAINS When turning a row, the first chain (turning chain) helps transition the row to the height of the first stitch of the new row. The height of the first chain (turning chain) must match the  height of the first stitch, and the number of chains depends on the first stitch after the chain. INSTRUCTIONS Single Crochet = 1 chain Half Double Crochet = 2 chains Double Crochet = 3 chains Treble Crochet = 4 chains  When working half double crochet or other taller stitches, the turning chain usually serves as  the first stitch. The project instructions will let you know whether or not the turning chain  is considered a stitch. When one chain is worked at the beginning of a row starting with a  single crochet stitch, it is usually for height only and is made in addition to the first stitch. 17 Step #1: Step #2: Step #3: Step #4: