Chain Space
A chain space is the open gap made by one or more chain stitches in a previous row or round. Patterns often use these spaces for decorative stitches or shaping.
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The Complete Guide to the Crochet Chain Space (ch-sp)
The chain space,written in patterns as ch-sp (or sometimes *ch-1 sp, ch-2 sp*, etc.),is one of the simplest and most powerful building blocks in crochet. It’s the “empty” gap made by chains and skipped stitches that gives crochet its breathability, laceiness, and structure. This post walks you from the basics to pro tips, troubleshooting, patterns that use chain spaces, and quick practice projects so you can master ch-sps with confidence.
Abbreviation
- US - Chain Space : ch-sp
- UK - chain space : ch-sp
- AFR- Kettingsteek spasie: Ks sp
Crochet Stitch Method
1. Make a slip knot on the hook.
2. Yarn over (yo).
3. Pull yarn through the loop on the hook. → 1 ch made.
4. Repeat for desired number of chains.
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Step by Step
A chain space is the open gap made by one or more chain stitches in a previous row or round. Patterns often use these spaces for decorative stitches or shaping.
Step-by-step:
1. Locate the gap created by previous chain stitches (not the chains themselves).
2. Insert your hook directly into that space — not into the chain loops.
3. Work the instructed stitch or group (e.g., “3 dc in next ch-sp”).
4. Skip any stitches as the pattern specifies.
5. Continue to the next chain space — this keeps your lacework or motifs evenly spaced.
How to read chain-space directions in patterns
- ch-sp often appears with a number: ch-1 sp, ch-2 sp, etc. That number is how many chains you make to form the gap.
- The pattern will say where to work the next stitch: ch 2, sk next 2 sts, dc in next st → that dc anchors the space.
- Sometimes you’ll see ch-space used when joining into a chain, e.g., (dc, ch 2, dc) in ch-2 sp , that means treat the chain loops as an anchor.
Step-by-step: make a basic ch-2 space
1. Work the stitch called for (e.g., a dc).
2. Chain 2. Keep your tension relaxed — don’t pull chains too tight.
3. Skip the number of stitches the pattern indicates (if any).
4. Work the next stitch into the anchor stitch (or into the top of the next stitch, or into a specified chain space) to close the gap.
Example: `*Dc, ch 2, skip 2, dc in next st; rep from *` creates a mesh with ch-2 spaces.
Crochet Stitch Practice Example
Practice swatches & exercises
Swatch A (mesh):
ch 20. Row 1: dc in 4th ch from hook, ch 1, skip 1, dc in next; rep. Make 20 rows. Observe ch-1 spacing.
Swatch B (filet):
ch 30. Row 1: dc in 4th ch from hook, ch 1, skip 1, dc in next for 10 repeats. Row 2: ch 3, dc in next dc, ch 1, dc in next dc — alternate to see solid vs open squares.
Swatch C (shell arches):
ch 36. Row 1: [3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc] in ch-2 sp — practice anchoring group into the ch-2.
Make each swatch in the yarn and hook you plan to use for your final project to test how ch-sps will behave.
Examples : short pattern snippets to practice
Simple Mesh Scarf (mini practice)
Chain 31 (or any odd number).
Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook, ch 1, skip next ch, dc in next ch; rep from to end.
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1, dc in next ch-1 sp; rep.
Granny Square Center (classic)
Make a magic loop (or ch 4 and join to form ring).
Rnd 1: (3 dc, ch 2) six times into ring, join with sl st to top of first dc.
Rnd 2: (3 dc in next ch-2 sp, ch 1) around, ch-2 spaces are the corners that make the square grow.
What does ch-sp mean in crochet?
A: ch-sp stands for chain space — an intentional gap made by chaining a number of stitches and usually skipping specified stitches before anchoring the next stitch.
How do I work into a chain space?
A: Flatten the chain loop (or pull it slightly forward) and insert your hook into the space between chains (not into the chain itself), then yarn over and complete the stitch as instructed.
Why are my chain spaces different sizes on each row?
A: Differences come from inconsistent chain tension, changing hook sizes, or working chains into different anchor points (turning chains vs stitch tops).
Can chain spaces replace turning chains?
A: Sometimes — patterns will instruct whether to work into the turning chain or into the first stitch. Treat instructions literally for correct row height and count.
What’s the difference between ch-1 sp and ch-2 sp?
A: It’s simply how many chains make the space: ch-1 sp makes a tiny hole; ch-2 sp is larger and often used for corners or arches; ch-3 sp is common when forming the top of a dc in lace or joining.
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