Crochet has its own rich vocabulary. The chain stitch, abbreviated ch, is the foundation for nearly every project, made by drawing a new loop through the previous loop. Single crochet is the shortest standard stitch after slip stitch and produces a sturdy, dense fabric. Double crochet stands taller and works up quickly, and treble crochet is taller still. A slip stitch is used to join rounds or move stitches without adding height.
One common source of confusion between crocheters in different countries is terminology. UK and US crochet naming conventions are systematically offset; for instance, what Americans call a single crochet is called a double crochet in the UK, and vice versa. Patterns from international sources must always be checked for this convention, often indicated at the start of the pattern.
Beyond flat fabric, crochet excels at three-dimensional work. Amigurumi, a Japanese tradition of small crocheted or knitted stuffed toys, relies on tight crochet stitches worked on a hook smaller than the yarn label recommends, which prevents stuffing from showing through. The magic ring is a starting technique that allows the center of a circular piece to be closed tightly. Granny squares are traditional motifs built from clusters of stitches and are commonly joined into blankets, garments, or bags; the join-as-you-go method connects motifs during the final round to avoid sewing. Tunisian crochet, sometimes called Afghan crochet, uses a long hook that holds multiple loops like a knitting needle, producing a dense, knit-like fabric with a tendency to curl.