There are many shell stitch variations, such as v-stitch crochet shell as well as different ways to incorporate shell stitches into your projects. This version uses four colors, but if you’d rather work yours all in one color, skip the color changes. Of course, you can also use fewer or more than four colors. Ready to learn how to crochet shell stitch? Grab a hook in a size that matches your yarn weight and get started! Work a single crochet stitch into the second chain stitch from your hook. This set of five double crochet stitches creates the shell. Repeat the following:
Skip the next two chains.Work five double crochet stitches into the next chain stitch.Skip two chains.Single crochet in the next chain.
Repeat until the end of the row, ending with a single crochet in the final stitch. A single row of crochet shells like this makes a great trim. You can add it to the border of any crochet project. You can also attach it to fabric, such as tablecloths, napkins, or even quilts, by sewing it on. If you’re working rows of shell stitch using more than one color, work the last single crochet stitch without completing the last step of the stitch. Attach your new yarn color and complete the stitch. Work a turning chain of three chain stitches. This counts as your first double crochet stitch in the new row. When working in more color, you may want to weave in the ends as you go. Cut the first color and weave in the end at this point, along with the end generated at the beginning of the work. Another option is to crochet over the ends to secure them. Repeat these steps over and over again across the row:
Skip the next two stitches. Work a single crochet stitch into the middle of the next shell.Skip the next two stitches. Work a group of five double crochet stitches into the next stitch.
When you reach the end of the row, work three double crochet stitches into the last single crochet, forming another half shell. Work a single crochet stitch into the first stitch. Repeat this sequence across the row, alternating shells and single crochet stitches all the way across:
Skip the next two stitches. Work a group of five double crochet stitches into the next stitch.Skip the next two stitches. Work a single crochet stitch into the middle of the next shell.
At the end of the row, work your last single crochet stitch into the turning chain. If you’re also working in a color pattern, remember to keep your color pattern consistent as well.
