The Shell Stitch

Learn how to crochet the Shell Stitch which includes multiples so you can make whatever you like in the size you want it to be. Scroll down for the free stitch pattern BELOW!

the shell stitch
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About The Shell Stitch

Elevate your crochet repertoire with our straightforward tutorial on mastering the Shell Stitch. This elegant stitch creates intricate shell-like patterns, adding texture and depth to your projects. Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, our step-by-step guide simplifies the process, ensuring beautiful results every time. This tutorial features written instructions and a photo tutorial. Whether you’re crafting blankets, scarves, or shawls, the Shell Stitch lends a touch of timeless sophistication to your creations. With clear instructions and helpful tips, you’ll quickly become proficient in incorporating this versatile stitch into your repertoire. Start crocheting today and elevate your projects with the classic beauty of the Shell Stitch! For this crochet stitch pattern I used Yarnsmiths Pebble Haze DK in the color Blue Slate and 4mm crochet hook.

  • You can find my other free crochet stitch tutorials here.
  • Save this tutorial to your Pinterest crochet board here.

What to create with this stitch:

  • Homewares – dishcloths, blankets, throws, table runners, coasters etc
  • Clothing – ponchos, sweaters, summer tops etc
  • Accessories – shawls, wraps, bags, gloves etc

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Or scroll down to view the free crochet stitch pattern right here on the blog supported with ads.

The Shell Stitch

Stitches Used:

Stitch broken down into easy steps:

Ch – Chain

  • Make a slip knot, insert your hook into the slip knot loop.
  • Yarn over and pull up a new loop.
  • The first chain stitch is now complete.
  • Keep repeating the above steps to make the next chain stitch and the rest of the foundation chain.

Written In:

This pattern is written using American standard crochet terminology.

Notes:

  • This crochet pattern is worked in rows starting from the bottom working towards the top, turn your piece over at the end of each row.
  • Ch1 at the start of each row does not count as a stitch throughout the pattern.
  • Repeat what is in between the stars from * to * until the end of the round.
  • If you have a ** in your row you need to follow the pattern from * to * across the entire row and then when you get near the end of the row you will finish your last repeat at ** because you can no longer complete the entire repeat then follow what it says to do to complete the row.
  • Read each row carefully before starting the row.

Multiples:

  • 6 + 2

Written Instructions for the Shell Stitch:

R1. Chain your desired width using the multiples above, 1sc in 2nd ch from hook * Skip next 2 chains, 5dc in next chain, skip next 2 chains, 1sc in next chain * Repeat from * to * all the way across the row, turn

R2. Ch1, Work 3dc in very first sc * Skip next 2dc, 1sc in next dc, skip next 2dc, 5dc in next sc * Repeat from * to * all the way across the row until 6sts remain, skip next 2dc, 1sc in next dc, skip next 2dc, 3dc in last sc, turn

R3. Ch1, 1sc in very first dc * Skip next 2dc, 5dc in next sc, skip next 2dc, 1sc in next dc * Repeat from * to * all the way across the row, turn

Repeat rows 2 + 3 until you reach your desired length.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Photo Tutorial for the Shell Stitch:

R1. Chain your desired width using the multiples above, 1sc in 2nd ch from hook * Skip next 2 chains, 5dc in next chain, skip next 2 chains, 1sc in next chain * Repeat from * to * all the way across the row, turn

  • Place your first sc stitch in the 2nd ch from the hook – the arrow is pointing to it.

  • Picture shows your first sc stitch made in 2nd ch from the hook. Skip next 2chs – see peach arrows. 5dc in next chain – see white arrow.

  • After you have completed row 1 this is what it should look like.

R2. Ch1, Work 3dc in very first sc * Skip next 2dc, 1sc in next dc, skip next 2dc, 5dc in next sc * Repeat from * to * all the way across the row until 6sts remain, skip next 2dc, 1sc in next dc, skip next 2dc, 3dc in last sc, turn

  • Ch1, Work 3dc in very first sc – the arrow is pointing to it.

  • Once you have made 3dc in the very first sc, skip next 2dc – see peach arrows. 1sc in next dc – see white arrow.

  • Skip next 2dc – see peach arrows. 5dc in next sc – see white arrow.

  • This is what row 2 should look like so far.

  • When you get to the last 6sts, skip next 2dc – see peach arrows. 1sc in next dc – see white arrow.

  • Skip next 2dc – see peach arrows. 3dc in last sc – see white arrow.

  • After you have completed row 2 this is what it should look like.

R3. Ch1, 1sc in very first dc * Skip next 2dc, 5dc in next sc, skip next 2dc, 1sc in next dc * Repeat from * to * all the way across the row, turn

  • Ch1, 1sc in very first dc – see peach arrow. Skip next 2dc – see white arrows. 5dc in next sc – see blue arrow.

  • Skip next 2dc – see peach arrows. 1sc in next dc – see white arrow.

  • Close up of what the end of row 3 will look like.

  • This is what row 3 will look like once completed.

Repeat rows 2 + 3 until you reach your desired length.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

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