Learning how to yarn over in crochet is one of the most essential skills you’ll master as a beginner—and it's something you’ll use in almost every single project. Whether you’re creating a classic single crochet or experimenting with textured stitches, this foundational motion (often abbreviated as “yo” in patterns) sets the stage for every loop and stitch that follows.

At Okey Dokeys, we’re here to make the learning process fun, friendly, and stress-free. So if you're wondering how to yarn over crochet, you've come to the right place!

Right Handed

Left Handed 

What Is a Yarn Over in Crochet?

A yarn over (YO) is the action of wrapping your yarn over the crochet hook from back to front. It’s how you build loops and complete stitches. You'll see this motion used in:

• Single crochet (sc)

• Half double crochet (hdc)

• Double crochet (dc)

• Treble crochet (tr)

It also comes up often in shaping techniques like increasing and decreasing. Knowing how to do yarn over in crochet properly makes a world of difference in keeping your tension even and your stitches consistent.

How to Do a Yarn Over in Crochet – Easy Steps

If you’re new to crochet or need a quick refresher, here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to do a yarn over in crochet:

Step 1: Hold your hook and yarn
Hold the crochet hook in your dominant hand and the working yarn in the opposite hand.

Step 2: Yarn over
Bring the yarn from back to front, over the top of your hook. The yarn should sit under the tip of the hook in a snug, smooth loop.

Step 3: Pull through
Use the hook to pull the yarn through the loop (or loops) already on your hook. Voilà! You’ve completed your yarn over.

This motion is the heart of crochet and becomes second nature with practice.

And that’s it! You’ve mastered the yarn over. 🎉

Yarn Over vs. Yarn Under: What's the Difference?

You may hear about yarn over vs yarn under techniques. In standard crochet, you always yarn over (back to front). Yarn under is less common and used in specific techniques like waistcoat stitch or for creating tighter stitches in amigurumi. It can alter stitch appearance and tension—so unless your pattern specifically calls for it, stick with the traditional yarn over.

Common Yarn Over Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Even though this motion seems simple, there are a few things to watch out for:

• Yarn slipping off: Keep even tension and watch your grip.

• Wrapping the wrong way: Always go from back to front, not front to back.

• Too tight: Loosen up! Tight yarn overs can make it hard to insert your hook on the next round.

Okey Dokeys Tip: Practice with Chunky Yarn

If you’re struggling to see what’s happening, try practicing your yarn over with our bulky chenille yarn and a larger hook (6 mm or more). The thicker texture helps make each motion clearer and easier to control—perfect for building that crochet confidence.

Let’s Yarn Over Together

The yarn over crochet motion might seem small, but it’s the thread that ties every stitch together—literally! Whether you’re learning through our free guides or diving into one of our crochet kits, knowing how to yarn over gives you a strong start.

Want to put your skills to the test? Grab one of our crochet kits or explore our collection of intermediate crochet kits that use yarn overs in all sorts of clever ways.