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Learn how to crochet the shell stitch with my free step-by-step pattern and video tutorial. This classic stitch creates a beautifully scalloped, fan-like pattern that’s perfect for blankets, scarves, shawls, and even delicate lacework. Despite its intricate appearance, the shell stitch is surprisingly simple to master, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced crocheters alike.
About the Stitch
The crochet shell stitch is a decorative stitch pattern that creates a series of fan-shaped clusters, giving your fabric a beautifully textured and scalloped appearance. It is typically made by working multiple stitches—such as double and treble crochets—into the same stitch, forming a shell-like shape.
Pattern Use Ideas
Materials & Tools
- Yarn: For this tutorial, I used Stylecraft Special DK. However, you can use any weight yarn and recommended hook size that can be found on the belly band to your chosen yarn.
- Hook: Hook to match yarn and your desired gauge. I used a 5mm.
- Scissors
- Darning Needle
Pattern Notes
These instructions for Shell Stitch are written in UK terms but switchable to US terms below.
Skill Level: Beginner
Stitch Multiple: 6 +2
This pattern gives you the basic principles for the Shell Stitch, designed to help you create your own projects.
Video tutorial can be found at the base of the post.
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Please note, if you wish to change and adapt this pattern in any way, this must be done at your own exploration and we cannot offer assistance with this.
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?Â
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.
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
Chain(s) ch(s): Yarn over, pull through one loop on hook.
Slip Stitch (ss): 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.
Treble Crochet(s): tr(s): Yarn over, insert into stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, you will have three loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through the remaining two loops.
Special Stitches
Shell Stitch (ShSt): Work 5 tr into indicated stitch.
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. You can find my EBook HERE.
Free Crochet Pattern: Shell Stitch
You are viewing this pattern in UK terms.
Chain in multiples of 6 + 2
Row 1: dc in second ch from hook (skipped ch does not count as st), *skip 2 ch, work a ShSt into next st, skip 2 ch, dc, rep from * across. Turn.
Row 2: 1 ch (does not count as st here and throughout), 3 tr in first st, *skip 2 sts, dc in middle tr of next ShSt, skip 2 sts, ShSt in next dc, rep from * across, working 3 tr in last dc. Turn.
Row 3: 1 ch, dc in first st, *ShSt in next dc, skip 2 sts, dc in middle tr of next ShSt, skip 2 sts, rep from * across, working last dc in last st.
Rep Rows 2 and 3 until desired height.
Fasten off and sew in ends.
Video Tutorial
Or you can watch on YouTube
Learning a new stitch is one of the BEST parts of crochet – it makes it fun and simple to customise your own projects and boosts your knowledge. Why not browse my Stitch Library archive to learn something new today?
Crochet Stitches To Try Next
Have you tried these stitches?
Click below to explore the FREE stitch library.
Pattern Ideas
If you love exploring sttiches I have two exploritive crochet sttich bnlanket patterns I thin kyou’ll enjoy:
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I don’t see an indication for how many chain stitches you need for the foundation on this tutorial. Would you mind listing that?
In row 2 should is say Ch1 or Ch2?