Learn how to crochet the most basic leaf with an easy two-row pattern for absolute beginners. This mini leaf is used in most of the flower bag charms, vine hanging, flower plants, and bouquet projects.
Because you can crochet one in under 2 minutes using basic stitches, most of the patterns recommend this one. The one I will teach you today is the fastest and measures about only 2.5 inches.
Once you have an idea of how stitches of different heights are used to create the shape of a leaf, you probably won’t need any pattern to crochet a bigger one. But note that the one I crocheted is widely used, as you may have seen in my flower project recommendations.
How to Crochet A Basic Leaf?
To crochet any basic leaf, we have to crochet on one side of the foundation chain and then mirror the stitches back up the other side. This is similar to what we did in the basic oval pattern.
This requires rotating the work 180 degrees so the bottom is then the top of the row. As for shaping, we will first crochet the shortest stitch, then a longer one, and then the longest stitch to reach the middle. Then reverse the pattern.
After rotating the work, we repeat the same pattern and slip stitch to close. Our method will also require an extra single crochet and chain stitch after rotating the work.
Note: In theory, you can crochet a basic leaf of any size, as you can crochet a basic stitch in any height. To crochet a stem for a leaf, all you have to do is make chains after rotating the work and slip-stitching all the chains. Then you will work the remaining pattern normally.
Supplies to Have
- I am using macrame cord for better visibility of the stitches, but at the cost of a slightly deformed overall shape, tight stitches, and holes. For your leaf, I recommend using the standard cotton or acrylic yarn.
- 3.5mm crochet hook. You can use the recommended one on your yarn label.
Crochet Basic Leaf: Step-by-Step Instructions
Below, I will provide you with the pattern for crocheting the basic leaf. In the end, there is also a UK pattern plus a condensed US pattern.
Difficulty: Beginner – Level 2
Stitches Needed: Chain, single crochet, half-double crochet, double crochet, and slip stitch.
Stitches: 7 + 1
Row 1
- Step #1: Crochet 8 foundation chains. To do so: yarn over, pull through the loop on the crochet hook. For learning how to crochet the chain stitch with pictures, follow my step-by-step tutorial.
- Step #2: In the 2nd chain from the crochet hook, work 1 single crochet. Insert the hook into the top loop of the chain stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop on the hook. Yarn over again and pull through both the loops.
- Step #3: In the next chain, work 1 half double crochet. To do so, yarn over, insert the hook into the loop of the magic ring, yarn over, and pull up a loop on the hook. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook.
- Step #4: In the next chain, work 1 double crochet. To do so, yarn over, insert the hook into the loop of the magic ring, yarn over, and pull up a loop on the hook. Yarn over, pull through two, yarn over again, and pull through the last two stitches on the hook.
- Step #5 – 7: In the next chain 3 chain stitches, work [1 double crochet, 1 half double crochet, 1 single crochet] and rotate your work.
- Step #8: Chain twice. This step is important to have one tip more prominent. Even if you want a symmetrical leaf, make at least 1 chain stitch.
- Step #9: In the 2nd chain of the newly chained row, work 1 single crochet.
Row 2
- Insert the hook in the bottom loops of the chain stitch work [1 single crochet, 1 half double crochet, 1 double crochet, 1 double crochet, 1 half double crochet, 1 single crochet] in the next 7 stitches. Slip stitch in the end.
That’s how you will crochet your first basic crocheted leaf!
US Crochet Pattern:
Ch 8
Row 1:
Sc in 2nd ch from hook, hdc, dc,
In next 3 ch: (dc, hdc, sc), rotate
Ch 2, sc in 2nd ch
Row 2:
Work along other side:
sc, hdc, dc, dc, hdc, sc
Sl st to finish.
UK Crochet Pattern:
Ch 8
Row 1:
Dc in 2nd ch from hook, htr, tr,
In next 3 ch: (tr, htr, dc), turn
Ch 2, dc in 2nd ch
Row 2:
Work along other side:
dc, htr, tr, tr, htr, dc
Sl st to finish.
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