Shell Stitch

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 The shell stitch is a beautiful, textured crochet pattern that gets its name from its resemblance to a row of scalloped seashells. It is usually created by working a cluster of multiple stitches (like double crochets) into a single base stitch, making it a popular choice for blankets, shawls, and borders. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]




Basic Crochet Shell Stitch (2-Row Repeat)

The most common version of the shell stitch uses a simple repeat of multiples of 6 + 2 chains. [1]

Row 1: The Base
  1. Chain a multiple of six (e.g., 18, 24, or 30), then add two extra chains.
  2. Make a single crochet into the second chain from your hook.
  3. Skip the next 2 chains, and work 5 double crochet stitches into the next chain. (Your first shell is complete!)
  4. Skip the next 2 chains, and work a single crochet into the next chain.
  5. Repeat this pattern (skip 2, work 5 double crochets in the next, skip 2, single crochet) until the end of your row. [6, 7]
Row 2: Offsetting the Shells
  1. Chain 3 and turn your work. Make 2 double crochets into the very first stitch (this creates a "half shell").
  2. Skip 2 stitches, single crochet into the next stitch. Skip 2 stitches, and work 5 double crochets into the next stitch.
  3. Repeat this pattern across until a few stitches remain. End your row by working 3 double crochets into the final stitch. [1, 3, 6, 8]
Row 3: Continuing the Pattern
  1. Chain 1 and turn your work. Make a single crochet into the first stitch.
  2. Work a shell (5 double crochets) into the single crochet of the row below. Skip 2 stitches, and work a single crochet into the next stitch.
  3. Repeat this pattern across, ending with a single crochet in the top of the turning chain.
  4. To grow your project, alternate repeating Row 2 and Row 3. [1, 2, 3, 6, 9]


Variations to Try

While the standard shell stitch uses 5 double crochets, you can customize the texture by changing the size and spacing of your shells:
  • Delicate Shells: Work 1 single crochet, chain 2, and 1 single crochet all into the same space.
  • Large/Wide Shells: Use treble crochet stitches instead of double crochets, or pack 7 to 9 stitches into one space for a larger fan. [4, 12]



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