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How to Crochet the Bar Stitch: Free Pattern

Updated May 28, 2026

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Learn how to crochet the bar stitch with my free step-by-step pattern and video tutorial. This beautiful crochet stitch creates a lovely woven look and textured fabric that is great for; blankets, garments and accessories. This crochet stitch creates a horizontal “bar” effect, giving your fabric a woven look. While it may seem intricate at first, once you master the simple technique, it becomes a versatile addition to your crochet skillset.

You can work this stitch in one or more colours, see below for the materials I have chosen to use for my sample piece.

Bar Stitch

Materials & Tools Needed

Pattern Notes

  • Written in UK terms but switchable to US terms below.
  • When changing colours, you do not need to fasten off the yarn, instead carry the unused yarn up the edge of the work. You will be changing colour every 2 rows
  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • Stitch Multiple: 3 +3

Convert Pattern Terms

Here you can quickly switch between UK and US crochet terms. This will make following the pattern easier as all terms will be converted to your preferred version.

Terms & Abbreviations

Stitch(es): (st(s))

Chain(s): ch(s): Yarn over, pull through loop on hook.

Slip Stitch(s): ss(s): Insert hook, yarn over, pull through stitch and loop on hook.

Double Crochet(s): dc(s):Insert hook into stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, you will have two loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.

Front Post Treble Crochet(s): FPtr(s): Yarn over, insert hook around post of stitch from front to back, yarn over, pull up a loop, you will have three loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.

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Unsure of the differences between UK and US terms? Need a refresher on how to do your stitches? In my ‘How to crochet: A handy reference guide’ EBook I help you with all of these terms and you can always have them to hand! You will also get exclusive access to free video instructions. Learn more about the eBook here.

FAQs

Is this stitch suitable for beginners?

I always say if you like the look of a stitch, try it. If you’re comfortable with basic stitches like chain, double crochet, or treble crochet, you’ll likely pick it up quickly. I also recommend watching the video tutorial alongside following the written pattern. Lastly, take your time, practice slowly, and don’t worry if it feels tricky at first.

How do I keep count of my stitches?

Using stitch markers can make a huge difference, especially at the beginning and end of rows or rounds. Counting regularly after each row will also help you spot mistakes early before they become harder to fix. If you’re still struggling, add stitch markers after every 5 or 10 stitches. 

My edges are uneven! What am I doing wrong?

Uneven edges usually happen when stitches are accidentally added or missed at the ends of rows. Pay close attention to where the first and last stitches go, and count your stitches often to make sure the total stays consistent. Using stitch markers can help with this. CLICK HERE for more help starting and ending rows with confidence. 

What should I do if I make a mistake?

Mistakes happen to every crocheter! If you notice an error a few stitches back, gently pull out the stitches to the problem area and try again. In the crochet world, we call this frogging, and it’s all part of the learning process. 

Why do my stitches vary in size? 

This will be your tension. If you struggle with your tension and find your crochet stitches are inconsistent, or they get tighter or looser, I can help fix this with the golden loop! CLICK HERE to help fix your tension issues.

How long does it take to learn a new crochet stitch?

Some stitches click immediately, while others take a little more practice. Give yourself time to repeat the stitch pattern slowly, and don’t be afraid to pause and replay tutorials. Practice makes progress. 

Free Crochet Pattern: Bar Stitch

Bar Stitch Front
Bar Stitch Back

You are viewing this pattern in UK terms.

Foundation: With Colour A, Ch in multiples of 3 +3.

Row 1 (RS): with yarn A dc in second ch from hook (skipped ch does not count as st), dc each ch across. Turn.

Row 2 (WS): 1 ch (does not count as st here or throughout), dc in each st across. Turn.

Row 3: 1 ch, dc in first 2 sts, FPtr around next st two rows below, *dc in next 2 sts, FPtr around next st two rows below, rep from * until 2 sts rem, dc in last 2 sts changing to yarn B in last yo of last st. Turn.

Row 4: 1 ch, dc in first st and each st across. Turn.

Row 5: 1 ch, dc in first 2 sts, FPtr around FPtr from two rows below, *dc in next 2 sts, FPtr around FPtr from two rows below, rep from * until 2 sts rem, dc in last 2 sts changing to yarn A in last yo of last st. Turn.

You are viewing this pattern in UK terms.

Row 6: 1 ch, dc in each st across. Turn.

Row 7: 1 ch, dc in first 2 sts, FPtr around FPtr from two rows below, *dc in next 2 sts, FPtr around FPtr from two rows below, rep from * until 2 sts rem, dc in last 2 sts changing to yarn B in the last yo of last st. Turn.

Rep Rows 4–7 until desired height, omitting colour change on final row.

Fasten off and sew in ends.

Bar Stitch Step by Step Photos

Video Tutorials

Time Stamps

  • Intro: 00:04
  • Pattern notes and colour change instructions: 00:51
  • Foundation: 01:48
  • Row 1: 02:42
  • Row 2: 04:43
  • Row 3: 05:38
  • Colour change (if needed): 09:39
  • Row 4: 10:38
  • Row 5: 11:39
  • Row 6: 15:03
  • Row 7: 15:36

Right-handed

Or you can watch on YouTube

Left-handed

Or you can watch on YouTube

Crochet Pattern to Try

Are you ready to turn your new crochet skill into a project? The Truly Beanie and matching Convertible Truly Wrist Warmers are a great way to showcase your new skill.

Crochet Stitch Library

I hope you enjoyed learning the bar stitch! Don’t forget I have an entire stitch library on the blog for you to explore! however, if you love textured stitches I think oyu’ll enjoy these:

Want to keep learning? Why not check out my Stitch Library for more FREE tutorials?

crochet stitch library

I always love to see your makes so if you try any of my patterns or follow my stitch tutorials please tag me @bellacococrochet or use the #bellacococrochet

sarah-jayne
 
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4 Comments

  • Linda Higgins
    April 4, 2021 at 7:10 pm

    could the bar stich crochet be made into a square blanket? As i love the design but like making square afghans / blankets.
    The design would be great for baby blankets, with it not being holey Hope you can help .

    Reply
  • Lori
    January 9, 2022 at 9:41 pm

    What weight yarn to replace the unavailable Sewrella yarn.
    I’d love to make baby afghan for a friend due in April 2022 & can’t wait for Sewrella to supply.
    Could something like Caron or. Mandala cake work? I’m needing to get started ASAP! Thanks for your beautiful pattern and easy to follow instructions!
    Lori

    Reply
  • Sandy Morgan
    October 28, 2022 at 5:47 pm

    Hi Bella, I want to do a baby blank using the bar stitch. What border would work with this?
    Thank you for the pattern.
    Sandy Morgan

    Reply
  • Pamela
    May 13, 2023 at 8:51 pm

    I love this multicolored yarn. I have visited the sewrella yarn website but can’t find it. Can you advise where to find it? Thabks

    Reply

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