The Step-by-Step Guide to 200 Crochet Stitches

by Tracey Todhunter

Overview

An inspiring collection of 200 classic and new crochet stitches!

The perfect resource for new and experienced crocheters alike, The Step-By-Step Guide To 200 Crochet Stitches offers 200 stitches with detailed written, charted, and photographed instructions. This essential book stitch dictionary includes:

 • Basic stitches
 • Fans & Shells
 • Bobbles & Clusters
 • Spikes
 • Relief stitches
 • Mesh & Filet
 • Waves
 • Crossed stitches
 • Decorative stitches
You'll learn essential crochet skills, such as changing color, fastening off, and forming basic stitches. Each stitch is accessible with written, charted, and step-by-step photo instructions that clearly explain where the yarn goes each step of the way. Plus, large finished swatches in eye-catching colors show off the beauty of each stitch inspiring your hook through the entire book.

The Step-By-Step Guide To 200 Crochet Stitches is the must-have stitch dictionary you'll want in your reference library.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781632506573
Publisher:	Penguin Publishing Group
Publication date:	01/15/2019
Pages:	192
Sales rank:	62,492
Product dimensions:	7.40(w) x 9.60(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Tracey Todhunter is a well-known and popular crochet designer and has created much-loved, stunning patterns for most of the UK's major knitting and crochet magazines. She has been teaching for over 20 years and understands how to build confidence in beginners and challenge her pupils to extend their skills with straightforward projects and clear instructions.

Visit her website at www.grannycoolcrochet.com

Read an Excerpt

CHAPTER 1

Directory of stitches

It's time to dive into the Directory of Stitches and the 200 crochet stitches that you'll find within. Learn how to build a sturdy and hard-wearing fabric from single crochet stitches, create a fun, multicolored pattern of spikes or chevrons, make a beautiful and delicate lace or mesh fabric, or embellish your pieces with clusters, popcorns, or cables. The directory is divided into 12 families of stitches to help you to easily find the perfect one to suit your project. Whether you dip in and out or work your way through a complete section to really master one technique, get ready to make some stunning crochet creations.

1 Slip Stitch Rib

Slip stitches can be tight to work, so it is best to use a hook that is larger than the one recommended on the ball band. Unlike taller stitches, there is no need to make a turning chain at the beginning of each row of slipped stitches. This stitch pattern tends to "lean" to one side, but can easily be straightened with blocking or when sewn to other squarer pieces.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1sc in 2nd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 1sl st in each sc across, turn.

Step 3 Ch1, 1sc in each sl st across, turn.

Step 4 Repeat Steps 2–3.

2 Front Loop Slip Stitch

This stitch pattern produces a thin and stable fabric, and is often used for hats. There is no need to make a turning chain at the beginning of each row of slipped stitches.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1sl st in first ch and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 1FLsl st in each sl st across, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

3 Back Loop Slip Stitch

This pattern closely resembles knitted fabric. It makes a strong and elastic rib suitable for cuffs, welts, and hat brims.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1sl st in first ch and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 1BLsl st in each sl st across, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

4 Purl Slip Stitch

Closely resembling knitted garter stitch, this stitch pattern has a defined texture and is ideal for sturdy projects such as edgings, bags, and homewares.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1sl st in first ch and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 1BLsl st in each sl st across, turn

Step 3 1FLsl st in each sl st across, turn.

Step 4 Repeat Steps 2-3.

5 Crossed Single Crochet

This pretty variation on traditional single crochet gives an effect similar to knitted stockinette stitch. It creates a slightly denser fabric that holds its shape well, and can be used for garments, homewares, and accessories.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1sc in 2nd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch1, 1Ssc in each sc across, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

Special stitch Ssc (shallow sc): Insert hk between the two vertical bars of stitch below and complete sc as usual.

6 Crossed Single Crochet

A simple stitch made using chains and single crochet, this pattern creates a fabric with a lovely texture and is best made using crisp cotton or smooth yarns.

Multiple 2 sts, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (RS) 1sc in 3rd ch from hk, *ch1, skip 1ch, 1sc in next ch; rep from * across, turn

Step 2 Ch2 (counts as 1sc, ch1), sc2tog over first and 2nd ch sp, *ch1, sc2tog over previous and next ch sp; rep from * to last sc, sc2tog over previous ch sp and tch sp, sc2tog over tch sp and first ch of tch, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

7 Alternate Stitch

This pattern uses a combination of techniques and stitches to create beautiful texture and drape. Use smooth wool or cotton yarn to show off the texture. The stitch would be ideal for making a scarf.

Multiple An even number of sts, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (RS) Skip first 2ch, *sc2tog over next 2ch, ch1; rep from * to last ch, 1hdc in last ch, turn.

Step 2 Ch2 (counts as 1hdc), *BLsc2tog over next ch and sc2tog, ch1; rep from * to tch, 1hdc in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

8 Pin Tuck Ridges

The pleated effect of this stitch looks great for scarves and blankets. It is very effective if worked in combination with rows of single crochet.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (WS) 1sc in 2nd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch1, 1FLsc in each sc across, turn.

Step 3 Ch1, 1FLsc in each sc two rows below, turn.

Step 4 Ch1, 1sc in each sc of previous row, turn.

Step 5 Ch1, 1sc in each sc across, turn.

Step 6 Repeat Steps 2-5.

9 Rocking Stitch

Also known as Trinity Stitch, this simple pattern has a lovely texture and is ideal for blankets, scarves, and wraps. It is best to use a smooth yarn so that your hook can easily identify the chain spaces and stitches.

Multiple An even number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) Sc2tog over 2nd and 3rd ch from hk, *ch1, sc3tog over previous ch and next 2ch; rep from * to last ch, ch1, sc2tog over previous ch and last ch, turn.

Step 2 Ch1, sc2tog over first sc2tog and ch sp, *ch1, sc3tog over [previous ch sp, next sc3tog, and next ch sp]; rep from * to last sc2tog, ch1, sc2tog over previous ch sp and last sc2tog, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

10 Middle Bar Half Double Crochet

You can crochet into the middle horizontal bar of any stitch taller than single crochet. This creates a clearly defined middle line and a horizontal pattern that looks like knitting. Also known as Camel Stitch, half double crochet is the most popular and best-known version.

Multiple Any number of sts. Step 1 (RS) 1hdc in 3rd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch2 (counts as 1hdc), skip first hdc, 1hdc in middle bar of each hdc across, 1hdc in top of tch, turn.

11 Wide Half Double Crochet

This is a simple variation of standard half double crochet, creating a lacy and open fabric with plenty of drape. It can be worked in textured or mohair yarn for scarves and wraps. It is best to use a hook one size larger for the foundation chain so that the stitches do not pucker.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1hdc in 3rd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch2 (counts as 1hdc), 1hdc in each space between sts to last hdc, skip last hdc, 1hdc in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

12 Striped Wide Half Double Crochet

This version of Wide Half Double Crochet is worked in single-row stripes without cutting the yarn. Change to the new color on the last yarnover of the last stitch of the row. After the first three rows, the next color in the sequence will be waiting for you as you finish the row. Use this stitch for scarves, blankets, and projects where you will see both sides of the work.

Multiple Any number of sts. Step 1 (RS) With yarn A, 1hdc in 3rd ch from hk and in each ch across, change to yarn B, turn.

Step 2 With yarn B, ch2 (counts as 1hdc), 1hdc in each space between sts to last hdc, skip last hdc, 1hdc in top of tch, change to yarn C, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2, working one row of each color in sequence.

13 Crossed Half Double Crochet

This is a simple stitch with plenty of stability because of the crossed stitches. It is suitable for projects where you can see both the front and the back, such as blankets and scarves.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) Hdc2tog over 3rd and 4th ch from hk, *hdc2tog over previous ch and next ch; rep from * to last ch, 1hdc in last ch, turn.

Step 2 Ch2 (counts as 1hdc), hdc2tog over first hdc and hdc2tog, *hdc2tog over previous and next hdc2tog; rep from * to tch, 1hdc in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

14 Wide Double Crochet

A simple variation of standard double crochet, this pattern creates a lacy and open fabric with plenty of drape. It is best to use a hook one size larger for the foundation chain so that the stitches do not pucker.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1dc in 4th ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch3 (counts as 1dc), 1dc each space between sts to last dc, skip last dc, 1dc in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

15 Griddle Stitch

This very effective combination of single and double crochet is easy to memorize, making it suitable for the novice crocheter. Use thick, chunky yarns for textured accessories and blankets.

Multiple An even number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1sc in 4th ch from hk, *1dc in next ch, 1sc in next ch; rep from * across, turn.

Step 2 Ch3 (counts as 1dc), skip first sc, *1sc in next dc, 1dc in next sc; rep from * across, 1sc in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

16 Track Stitch

Combining rows of tall stitches with single crochet, this pattern creates an open fabric with lots of drape. It is most effective in natural fibers, such as linen and cotton, and can be used to make a very simple wrap or scarf. It would also work well for a lightweight summer beach cover-up.

Multiple Any number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1sc in 3rd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch5 (counts as 1dtr), skip first sc, 1dtr in each sc across, 1dtr in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Ch1 (counts as 1sc), skip first dtr, 1sc in each dtr across, 1sc in top of tch, turn.

Step 4 Ch1 (counts as 1sc), skip first sc, 1sc in each sc across, 1sc in tch, turn.

Step 5 Work as Step 4.

Step 6 Repeat Steps 2–5.

17 Double Crunch

This is another example where stitches of different heights are used together to give texture to the crochet fabric. It would be a good choice for garments. There is no need to make a turning chain on rows that begin with a slip stitch.

Multiple An odd number of sts.

Step 1 (RS) 1dc in 4th ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 1sl st in first dc, *1dc in next dc, 1sl st in next dc; rep from * across, working last sl st in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Ch3 (counts as 1dc), skip first sl st, 1dc in each st across, turn.

Step 4 Repeat Steps 2–3.

18 Tall Alternate Stitch

This combination of single crochet and extended single crochet creates texture and drape. It is a good choice for smooth yarns and has many uses. Try making a scarf in chunky wool or use it for a sweater. Extended stitches are made by working an extra yarnover, and the same technique can be used to make an extended version of any of the basic crochet stitches (see page 177).

Multiple An odd number of sts, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (WS) 1sc in 2nd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch1, 1sc in first sc, *1exsc in next sc, 1sc in next sc; rep from * across, turn.

Step 3 Ch1, 1sc in each sc and exsc across, turn.

Step 4 Ch1, 1sc in each of first 2sc, *1exsc in next sc, 1sc in next sc; rep from * to last sc, 1sc in last sc, turn.

Step 5 Ch1, 1sc in each sc and exsc across, turn.

Step 6 Repeat Steps 2-5.

Special stitchExsc (extended sc): Insert hk in st, yo and pull a loop through, yo and pull through 1 loop on hk, yo and pull through both loops on hk.

19 Staggered Double Crochet

An easy stitch combining double crochet and chain spaces, this pattern creates an open, textured fabric that has excellent drape, but also holds its shape well. It is suitable for homewares, garments, and accessories.

Multiple 6 sts + 2, plus 2 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (RS) 1dc in 4th ch from hk, 1dc in each of next 2ch, *ch3, skip 3ch, 1dc in each of next 3ch; rep from * to last 4ch, ch3, skip 3ch, 1dc in last ch, turn.

Step 2 Ch3 (counts as 1dc), *3dc in next ch sp, ch3; rep from * to tch, 1dc in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

20 Easy Mock Bobbles

Give your crochet a subtle bobble effect without the effort by using this combination of tall stitches and double crochet. It is very easy to work, making it suitable for the novice crocheter. Use smooth yarns to accentuate the texture.

Multiple 2 sts + 1, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (RS) 1sc in 2nd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch1, 1sc in first sc, *1tr in next sc, 1sc in next sc; rep from * across, turn.

Step 3 Ch1, 1sc in each sc and tr across, turn.

Step 4 Ch1, 1sc in each sc across, turn.

Step 5 Work as Step 4.

Step 6 Repeat Steps 2-5.

21 Alternating Eyelets 1

Alternating rows of different-height stitches are used to create this sturdy and attractive fabric. Shown here in a single color, you can also use your own choice of stripe sequence for bold accessories and blankets. Use a lightweight yarn and larger hook than usual for the yarn weight to crochet a wrap with excellent drape.

Multiple 2 sts + 1, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (RS) 1sc in 2nd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch1, 1sc in each sc across, turn.

Step 3 Work as Step 2.

Step 4 Ch3 (counts as 1hdc, ch1), skip first 2sc, 1hdc in next sc, *ch1, skip 1sc, 1hdc in next sc; rep from * across, turn.

Step 5 Ch1, 1sc in first hdc, *1sc in next ch1 sp, 1sc in next hdc; rep from * to tch, 1sc in tch sp, 1sc in 2nd ch of tch, turn.

Step 6 Repeat Steps 2–5.

22 Alternating Eyelets 2

This version of Alternating Eyelets creates a very stable fabric. Use it for any project that requires a strong but lightweight fabric. You can use smooth or textured yarn for this stitch.

Multiple 3 sts, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (RS) 1sc in 2nd ch from hk and in each ch across, turn.

Step 2 Ch4 (counts as 1dc, ch1), skip first 2sc, *1dc in each of next 2sc, ch1, skip 1sc; rep from * to last sc, 1dc in last sc, turn.

Step 3 Ch1, 1sc in first dc, *1sc in next ch1 sp, 1sc in each of next 2dc; rep from * to tch, 1sc in tch sp, 1sc in 3rd ch of tch, turn.

Step 4 Repeat Steps 2-3.

23 Brick Stitch

This is a good example of how simple stitches can be combined to create pleasing textures. Using a combination of single and double crochet, this pattern is ideal for garments and blankets because it holds its shape well. It is also easy to memorize.

Multiple 4 sts + 1, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (WS) 1sc in 2nd ch from hk, *ch3, skip 3ch, 1sc in next ch; rep from * across, turn.

Step 2 Ch3 (counts as 1dc), 3dc in each ch3 sp across, 1dc in last sc, turn.

Step 3 Ch1, 1sc in first dc, ch3, skip 3dc, *1sc in space between previous and next dc, ch3, skip 3dc; rep from * to tch, 1sc in top of tch, turn.

Step 4 Repeat Steps 2–3.

24 Two-Color Brick Stitch

This is worked in the same way as Brick Stitch, but using two colors. The effect is very pleasing and would suit accessories and homewares. For added interest, try using a smooth yarn for the single crochet rows and textured yarn for the double crochet rows. You will need to cut the yarn at the end of each row, so it is helpful if you crochet over the yarn tails as you work.

Multiple 4 sts + 1, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (WS) With yarn A, 1sc in 2nd ch from hk, *ch3, skip 3ch, 1sc in next ch; rep from * across, change to yarn B, turn.

Step 2 With yarn B, ch3 (counts as 1dc), 3dc in each ch3 sp across, 1dc in last sc, change to yarn A, turn.

Step 3 With yarn A, ch1, 1sc in first dc, ch3, skip 3dc, *1sc in space between previous and next dc, ch3, skip 3dc; rep from * to tch, 1sc in top of tch, change to yarn B, turn.

Step 4 Repeat Steps 2-3.

25 Parquet Stitch

This simple shell pattern looks striking in chunky yarns. It is a very pretty stitch and is robust enough for homewares. It also works for items that require a reversible fabric, such as scarves.

Multiple 3 sts + 1, plus 2 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (WS) 1sc in 6th ch from hk, *ch2, skip 2ch, 1sc in next ch; rep from * across, turn.

Step 2 Ch3 (counts as 1dc), 1dc in first sc, *Shell in next sc; rep from * to tch, skip 2ch, 2dc in next ch, turn.

Step 3 Ch3 (counts as 1sc, ch2), skip first 3dc, *1sc in center dc of next Shell, ch2; rep from * to tch, 1sc in top of tch, turn.

Step 4 Repeat Steps 2–3.

Special stitch Shell: 3dc in same place.

26 Turtle Stitch

Working into the front and back loops produces a fabric with good stability and drape. This pattern is easy to memorize, making it ideal for a novice.

Multiple 6 sts + 4, plus 3 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (RS) 2dc in 4th ch from hk, skip 2ch, *1sc in next ch, skip 2ch, Shell in next ch, skip 2ch; rep from * to last ch, 1sc in last ch, turn.

Step 2 Ch3 (counts as 1dc), 2FLdc in first sc, *1FLsc in center dc of next Shell, FL Shell in next sc; rep from * to tch, 1sc in top of tch, turn

Step 3 Ch3 (counts as 1dc), 2BLdc in first sc, *1BLsc in center dc of next Shell, BL Shell in next sc; rep from * to tch, 1sc in top of tch, turn.

Step 4 Repeat Steps 2-3.

Special stitch Shell: 5dc in same place, working into front loop (FL) or back loop (BL) where specified.

27 Cross Hatch Shells

Cross Hatch Shells is very attractive and lends itself to several kinds of projects, including garments, blankets, and accessories. Choose a smooth yarn to show off the construction of the shell stitches.

Multiple 6 sts + 1, plus 1 for the foundation chain.

Step 1 (RS) Shell in 4th ch from hk, skip 3ch, *[1sl st, ch3, Shell] in next ch, skip 3ch; rep from * to last ch, 1sl st in last ch, turn.

Step 2 Ch5, Shell in 4th ch from hk, *[1sl st, ch3, Shell] in space between last dc of next Shell and next ch3; rep from * to tch, 1sl st in top of tch, turn.

Step 3 Repeat Step 2.

Special stitch Shell: 4dc in same place.

(Continues…)

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Table of Contents

Foreword, 10,
About this book, 10,
Directory of Stitches, 12,
Basic Stitches,
Fans and Shells,
Clusters, Puffs, and Popcorns,
Spike Stitches,
Raised Stitches,
Mesh and Filet,
Lace and Openwork,
Waves and Chevrons,
Textured Stitches,
Tunisian Stitches,
Colorwork,
Edgings,
Crochet Skills, 164,
Materials, 166,
Equipment, 168,
Basic techniques, 170,
Basic stitches, 176,
Stitch variations, 180,
Symbols and abbreviations, 186,
Index, 190,
Credits, 192,