How to Do a Shell Stitch?
To do a shell stitch in crochet, you typically work multiple stitches into a single stitch or space to create a fan-like shape. The exact number and type of stitches can vary depending on the specific pattern, but a common method involves working several double crochet stitches into one location.
The shell stitch is a decorative stitch pattern that adds texture and visual interest to crochet projects. It's formed by grouping several stitches together into the same spot, causing them to flare out and resemble a shell or fan.
Common Shell Stitch Method
A widely used method for creating a basic shell stitch is:
- Identify the Stitch or Space: Determine where your pattern indicates the shell should be placed (often a single crochet, a skipped stitch space, or a chain space from the previous row).
- Work Multiple Stitches: Crochet a specific number of stitches, most commonly 5 double crochet (DC) stitches, into that single stitch or space.
- Continue the Pattern: Follow the pattern instructions for the stitches between shells, which might involve skipping stitches or working other stitch types like single crochet (SC).
For example, a simple shell pattern might be: (5 DC in next SC), skip 2 stitches.
Incorporating Single Crochets
Some shell stitch patterns, like the one potentially shown in the referenced video, incorporate single crochet stitches as part of the repeating sequence across the row. Based on the snippet from the video tutorial:
"...And then our three single crochet stitches. Again. Continue with this pattern across the row."
This suggests that in the specific pattern being demonstrated, the overall repeat includes a sequence of three single crochet stitches. This might occur after the shell cluster is made, serving as the stitches that bridge the gap before the next shell, or it could be integrated into the pattern in another way.
How this might look in a pattern:
A pattern incorporating this element could potentially follow a sequence similar to:
- Work your shell stitch (e.g., 5 DC in a designated stitch/space).
- Work three single crochet stitches in the following stitches or spaces.
- Repeat steps 1 and 2 (continue with this pattern across the row) until the end of the row.
This combination of shell clusters and single crochet sections creates a textured fabric with distinct shell motifs.
Variations
The exact composition of a shell stitch and the surrounding pattern can vary greatly. Shells can be made with:
- Fewer or more double crochet stitches (e.g., 3 DC or 7 DC).
- Other stitch types like half double crochet (HDC) or treble crochet (TR).
- Chain spaces within the shell itself (e.g., 2 DC, chain 2, 2 DC).
The stitches between shells can also vary, including single crochets, slip stitches, or simply skipping a number of stitches. Always refer to your specific pattern instructions for the exact stitch count and placement.
By understanding the core concept of grouping stitches and how supporting stitches like single crochets fit into the overall pattern repeat, you can successfully crochet the shell stitch.
