Stitch Library How to Crochet the Shell Stitch: Free Pattern Updated April 1, 2026 This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, I may earn a small commission. Click to see full details of my Privacy Policy. Pin it now, make later!28Shares 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.TABLE OF CONTENTS1. About the Stitch2. Pattern Use Ideas3. Materials & Tools 4. Pattern Notes 5. Pattern Support6. Pin For Later 7. Convert Pattern Terms8. Terms & Abbreviations 9. Special Stitches10. Free Crochet Pattern: Shell Stitch 11. Video Tutorial 12. Crochet Stitches To Try Next 13. Pattern IdeasVIEW MORE▼ 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 Blankets Shawls Scarfs and cowls Hats and gloves Accessories Shell Stitch 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. Pattern Support The fastest way to get pattern support is to ask in our dedicated facebook group for Bella Coco Crochet patterns. This is the best place for you to connect with other crocheters. 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. Pin For Later 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. view in UK terms view in US terms 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 + 2Row 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? Ripple Stitch Rolling Waves Almond Ridges Ripple Stitch Rolling Waves Almond Ridges 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: Patchwork Blanket Four Seasons Blanket Patchwork Blanket Four Seaosns Blanket Want to keep on top of the latest Bella Coco news? The best way is to subscribe to my newsletter…you get a weekly inbox packed full of news, patterns and tips! KEEP ON making Don’t miss a thing! Sign up to our newsletter, grab a cuppa and find out about the latest posts and projects. First name Email address Thanks! Please check your inbox (and junk) to confirm your subscription! Pin it now, make later!28Shares Further Reading... Learn How To Crochet Half Treble (Half Double Crochet US) June 30, 2020 Little Arches Crochet Stitch October 30, 2022 How to Crochet the Block Stitch Granny Square July 31, 2025 2 Comments Julie November 5, 2021 at 6:54 pm I don’t see an indication for how many chain stitches you need for the foundation on this tutorial. Would you mind listing that? Reply Elizabeth Wright April 2, 2025 at 8:01 pm In row 2 should is say Ch1 or Ch2? Reply Leave a Reply Cancel Reply Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
