Explore over 47 unique crochet stitches to design blankets, scarves, sweaters, and bags. With easy stitches, multicolor stitches, and some fancy lace tutorials, this collection is the stitch-spiration you didn’t even know you were looking for!
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Unique Crochet Stitch Patterns
Even the most unusual crochet stitch patterns are often combinations of very simple stitches. Whether you’re just learning how to crochet or you’re ready to add a little more pizzazz to your projects, don’t be intimidated to try something new.
We’ve collected some of the most beautiful crochet stitches and tutorials to give you plenty of ideas to try. Here are some easy ways to use these new stitches:
- Use an open, lacy stitch to create a basic summer rectangle top
- Create a blanket from 9-12 individual squares of different stitches
- Use one textured stitch as an accent to an otherwise simple crocheted sweater
- Make six large squares using textured, closed stitches to create a pouf ottoman
Building On the Basics
While we love basic crochet stitches, we didn’t include them in our collection because they can hardly be considered new or unusual. That said, I find that combining a basic technique with a more unique crochet stitch can create a one-of-a-kind design.
Here are some classic stitches to keep in mind:
- Chain stitches (ch)
- Single crochet (sc)
- Half double crochet (hdc)
- Double crochet (dc)
- Treble crochet (tr)
- Tunisian simple stitch
Unusual Crochet Stitches + Tutorials
There are endless beautiful, unique, and even weird crochet stitches to add to your creative toolkit. Here are some of our favorites!
📌 Click here to pin this collection to your crochet board for later.
Easy Stitches To Add Texture
While we selected the following crochet stitch patterns for their simplicity, that doesn’t make them any less beautiful. These use basic techniques to create unique designs with tons of texture.
Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch
The modern-looking herringbone double crochet stitch (hbdc) boasts clean lines and a striking effect that resembles herringbone tile.
Fast and easy to work up, this is the perfect stitch for afghans, scarves, and striped projects.
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Fast and easy to work up, this is the perfect stitch for afghans, scarves, and striped projects.
Related: Herringbone Cowl Pattern
Corner-to-Corner Crochet (Diagonal Box Stitch)
Discover the fundamentals of the corner-to-corner (C2C) method, including essential stitches and how to change colors in this beginner tutorial.
With C2C crochet, you can turn words, characters, and images into C2C graph patterns to produce one-of-a-kind blankets, pillows, and scarves.
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With C2C crochet, you can turn words, characters, and images into C2C graph patterns to produce one-of-a-kind blankets, pillows, and scarves.
Boxed Block Stitch Square
Practice making an intricate-looking square using the boxed block stitch. You’ll need two yarns for this: one of a single color and one of self-striping yarn. Use this pattern in turned rows or rounds to create minimalist, modern pieces. Our Casita farmhouse towel and Prism baby blanket both use this unique stitch.
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How to Crochet a Hexagon + Tips
This thorough guide teaches you everything you need to know about crocheting a hexagon. Learn the basic math behind making hexagons and half-hexagons of any size. The hexagon motif can be used to craft baby blankets, rugs, or wall hangings.
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Hdc Braided Crochet Stitch
This quick step by step video tutorial covers how to work a "braided" crochet stitch that resembles knitting. This stitch is quite simple and perfect for confident beginners to use in an afghan or simple garment like this women's poncho pattern.
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Diagonal Popcorn Stitch
Follow this step-by-step tutorial to learn the C2C popcorn stitch. This fun stitch adds lots of squishy texture to traditional C2C crochet projects. It also offers great customization opportunities.
Use this beautifully textured stitch to make a cozy, comfy blanket for your favorite fur baby.
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Use this beautifully textured stitch to make a cozy, comfy blanket for your favorite fur baby.
Sunburst (Sunflower) Granny Square
This motif offers a modern twist on the classic granny square. Use yellow, orange, and brown yarn to create a circular sunflower or any scraps you have laying around to make a boho sunburst. After just four rounds, follow the instructions to square off the design. This stunning sunburst pattern is perfect for blankets, sweaters, and bags. Mix up the colors to make a field of beautiful blooms for your craft room. You can see this stitch pattern used in our Revival Granny Square Cardigan.
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Related: 36 Granny Square Patterns + Tips
Puff Stitch Using Half Double Crochet
Learn to crochet cute puff stitches with yarn scraps using this detailed video tutorial. You’ll walk away knowing how to work this new stitch in rows and in the round.
Puff stitches are a squishy variation of hdc used to add texture to garments, afghans, and granny squares.
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Puff stitches are a squishy variation of hdc used to add texture to garments, afghans, and granny squares.
Griddle Stitch
Alternating between single and double crochets, the griddle stitch produces a richly textured fabric that looks like knitting. The simple pattern requires minimal concentration, making it ideal for beginners. I love this supple, sophisticated stitch for oversized cardigans and winter wraps. See the griddle stitch in action in our Staycation Cardigan pattern.
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A Stitch That Looks Like Knitting (AKA Waistcoat Stitch)
The knit stitch, also known as the waistcoat or center single crochet stitch, is created using only sc.
Don’t be put off if the stockinette-like pattern seems challenging at first. A few specific tips and tricks we included in this tutorial will have you making crochet pieces that resemble knitting in no time!
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Don’t be put off if the stockinette-like pattern seems challenging at first. A few specific tips and tricks we included in this tutorial will have you making crochet pieces that resemble knitting in no time!
Related: Waistcoat Stitch Chunky Hat
Tunisian Diagonal Eyelet Stitch
Watch this step-by-step video tutorial to learn the Tunisian diagonal eyelet stitch. The delicate eyelets create a light fabric with great drape and visual appeal.This stitch is brilliant for lightweight shawls, ponchos, and beach cover-ups. We used it in our Stay-At-Home Pocket Shawl pattern.
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Ribbed Stitches for Elastic Fabric and Edgings
Ribbing is my favorite way to level up the polish on my projects. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to use single crochet, yarn over slip stitch, and half double crochet to produce sleek, ribbed edging.
Use these techniques to finish off your handmade sweaters, beanies, and baby booties.
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Use these techniques to finish off your handmade sweaters, beanies, and baby booties.
Side Saddle Stitch (AKA Sidesaddle Cluster Stitch)
This stitch artfully combines single and double crochet with chain stitches for an intricate look. Mastering the repeating pattern will require your focus initially but becomes easier after a couple rows.This stitch produces a gorgeous geometric pattern for cute, cushy blanket projects or summery tops.
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Suzette Stitch
This video tutorial is perfect for new crocheters ready to level up their scarves or washcloths with a delicate-looking stitch pattern.You only need to know how to single and double crochet. Easy-peasy! Check out this stitch in the Suzette Tote Bag pattern.
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Moss Stitch
The moss stitch is known by many names: the linen, sand, granite, and woven stitch. It’s an easy technique that creates a richly textured fabric. This pattern involves zero counting so it’s perfect for a relaxing craft session during movie nights with a glass (or bottle) of wine.
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Waffle Stitch
The waffle stitch creates a contemporary, grid-patterned appearance using double crochet and post stitches. What sets this stitch apart from others is its irresistibly snuggly and almost spongy texture.
Follow the detailed tutorial to make your own sumptuous throw or work a swatch following the included stitch multiple.
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Follow the detailed tutorial to make your own sumptuous throw or work a swatch following the included stitch multiple.
Zig Zag Puff Stitch
The zig zag puff stitch is a textured stitch creating a zigzag pattern. It’s easy to learn with a step-by-step photo tutorial. The softness of the puffs is a bonus, but it’s worth noting, this one can be a big yarn eater!
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The Star Stitch
The star stitch uses multiple loops to create rows of stitches that look like little starbursts. This stitch is also known as the "Marguerite stitch," "daisy stitch," or a "spiked cluster." You’ll form each star with a cluster of spikes, which you work between. Then you’ll work rows of half double crochet between the row of stars. Sounds complicated, but this tutorial simplifies it!The star stitch offers a thick texture ideal for washcloths and winter blankets.
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Trinity Stitch in Rows and Rounds
Try the beginner-friendly trinity stitch, a simple repeating pattern of single crochet. This classy-looking stitch can be worked in either rows or rounds, with rounds being a popular choice.
Choose your chosen method and follow the photo and video tutorial for a relaxing craft project.
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Choose your chosen method and follow the photo and video tutorial for a relaxing craft project.
Open, Lacy Stitches
If you’re designing a crocheted top or blouse, you’ll want to try one of these fancy stitches that drape beautifully. While lace can often sound scary (all that thin yarn!), many of these stitch patterns are quite easy to memorize.
Solomon’s Knot Stitch (AKA Lover’s Knot)
This lacy stitch combines chains and single crochet to create an elastic yet sturdy fabric that holds its shape.You can use this multifaceted stitch for lightweight shawls, toy hammocks, and even grocery bags. See it in our Market Tote Bag pattern.
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Eyelet Puff Stitches
This delicate variation on typically dense puff stitch would work really well for summer garments and shawls. Follow the included video tutorial to learn how to make this easy mesh stitch.
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Triangle Lace
Discover the triangles lace stitch pattern, which is more geometric and modern than many on this list. I love the idea of using this stitch for a beach coverup or decorative hand towel.
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Spider Lace Stitch
This stitch pattern has a lovely spider-web design that looks good on both sides, making it great for lightweight scarves and shawls.
Believe it or not, the complex look is created using only basic stitches makes this stitch special is that it only uses basic crochet stitches, although it does have a 14-stitch width and 8-row height repeat. This means you’ll need to be a bit flexible on the measurements of your project.
A detailed step-by-step photo tutorial makes mastering this stitch easy!
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Believe it or not, the complex look is created using only basic stitches makes this stitch special is that it only uses basic crochet stitches, although it does have a 14-stitch width and 8-row height repeat. This means you’ll need to be a bit flexible on the measurements of your project.
A detailed step-by-step photo tutorial makes mastering this stitch easy!
Floating Bobbles
Create a delicate yet whimsical look with this three dimmensional stitch. The lattice chains are paired with round bobbles for a blend of lace and texture. This pattern is perfect for shawls or garment edges.
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Intermediate and Advanced Stitch Patterns
These patterns are the ticket if you’re looking for new crochet stitches to test your crafting skills. With just enough challenge to make it fun (without making you want to strangle someone with your yarn), these tutorials will leave you hooked!
Harlequin Stitch
The beauty features a wheel-like design made with cluster stitches, chains, and single crochets. While it’s similar to Catherine's wheel and starburst stitches, I find the harlequin easier to work. Use different color combinations to show off the textured fabric and pretty “wheel” effect. This versatile pattern can make pillows, hats, scarves, or gradient blankets. Try it in our Chroma Multi-Color Blanket pattern.
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Step-by-Step Cupcake Crochet Stitch
Create a playful fabric with the Cupcake Stitch, suitable for newbies and those refreshing their skills. Using chains, slip stitches, and single and double crochet stitches, you’ll make an adorable pattern that kids and adults will love.
Make a cute cupcake dress for your daughter or a sweet blanket as a baby shower gift.
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Make a cute cupcake dress for your daughter or a sweet blanket as a baby shower gift.
Strawberry Stitch
Learn how to add a fun 3D effect to your next project using this helpful tutorial. You’ll work 5 double crochet stitches in red yarn (similar to making a bobble stitch), followed by a single crochet 5 together stitch in green yarn. Once you practice a few rows, this repeating pattern will be easy to remember.
There’s even a Tunisian version available!
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There’s even a Tunisian version available!
Braided Puff Stitch
This stunning stitch looks just like a braid and is super simple to do. I love the unique knit-look texture, which is enhanced by using different colored yarn.
Gather a crochet hook and chunky yarn to practice this pattern. Make trendy throws, wrist warmers, or a cozy cowl for chilly days.
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Gather a crochet hook and chunky yarn to practice this pattern. Make trendy throws, wrist warmers, or a cozy cowl for chilly days.
Two Color Crochet Stitches
Each of these tutorials uses two or more yarn colors to create a distinct visual pattern. Many of these unusual crochet stitches would make fantastic home decor projects like decorative throws, scatter cushions, or porch pillows.
I would love to make a sampler afghan someday using dozens of smaller swatches featuring these pretty designs.
Brick Stitch (aka the Grid Stitch)
Learn how to work the Tunisian crochet brick stitch by following this beginner video and photo tutorial with written instructions. This is a surprisingly easy variation on Tunisian simple stitch and looks stunning when worked in a self striping yarn like Lion Brand Ferris Wheel (pictured).
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The Woven Overlay Stitch
Follow this tutorial to create an interesting woven design. Once you’ve crocheted the fabric base with chains and double crochet, you’ll use a weaving technique to produce the interlaced effect.
This colorful pattern is great for projects such as purses, scarves, and coasters.
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This colorful pattern is great for projects such as purses, scarves, and coasters.
Granny Ripple Stitch
Follow the photo tutorial to learn this textured wave stitch using double crochet clusters. This pattern is fast, beginner-friendly, and easy to work up.
Craft a wonderfully wavy afghan to brighten up your living space or use this stitch to design a boho shawl.
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Craft a wonderfully wavy afghan to brighten up your living space or use this stitch to design a boho shawl.
Larksfoot Crochet Stitch
Learn the larksfoot stitch to add some visual interest to your projects. All you need to know is how to chain and double crochet.
This stitch grows fast and looks impressive, perfect for colorful cushions or larger projects like blankets.
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This stitch grows fast and looks impressive, perfect for colorful cushions or larger projects like blankets.
Love Heart Stitch
Discover how to include charming heart motifs in your crochet work with this simple video guide. You’ll learn how to turn chains, single, double, and cluster stitches into lovely little hearts.
Use this stitch for cute beanies or baby blankets that express your love.
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Use this stitch for cute beanies or baby blankets that express your love.
Related: Easy Crochet Heart Pillow
Easy Waves Stitch
This multicolor stitch pattern is a fresh twist on the traditional ripple blanket. Use a self-striping yarn or change colors at the end of each row the most distinct wave look.You’ll practice advanced beginner skills like single, double, half double, and treble crochet, along with color changing at the end of a row.Pro Tip: If you use different colored skeins of yarn, I suggest weaving in the tail ends as you go so you don’t have a mammoth job to do at the end!
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Beginner-Friendly Block Stitch
The block stitch creates an effortlessly colorful pattern. You’ll need to know how to chain and make single and double crochet stitches.
The video tutorial guides you through each step, making it great for beginners wanting to tune up basic skills.
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The video tutorial guides you through each step, making it great for beginners wanting to tune up basic skills.
Two Color Interlocking Block Stitch
Practice this striking colorwork stitch for a bold vertical stripe design. It’s a simple stitch to learn, using only chains and double crochet.
Use this dense, interlocking stitch for projects that require sturdy fabric, such as pillows, cushions, bags, and pot holders.
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Use this dense, interlocking stitch for projects that require sturdy fabric, such as pillows, cushions, bags, and pot holders.
Plaid Stitch Pattern
This classic crochet plaid stitch is made using half double crochet stitches. It can be easily modified to create a different plaid or gingham look by simply choosing a light (or white), medium and dark shade of the same color.
Knit a cozy plaid hat with this free pattern, suitable for kids, women, and men.
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Knit a cozy plaid hat with this free pattern, suitable for kids, women, and men.
Dahlia Spike Stitch
The spike stitch is ideal for new crafters to experiment with. If you can single crochet, you're all set to master this sumptuous stitch! It's like a sc, but with a twist – instead of working in the current row, you insert your hook in the row below. This step-by-step tutorial includes a helpful stitch chart to guide you.
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Related: How to Read Crochet Charts + 25 Free Pattern Diagrams
Three Colored Crosshatch Knitting Stitch (Reversible)
With this multi-colored stitch pattern, you’ll make a delicate diamond design that’s rich in texture. The stitch produces a reversible fabric, perfect for projects seen from both sides, like blankets and scarves.
The video also includes instructions for crocheting a tighter fabric with fewer gaps, which is ideal for pillowcases.
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The video also includes instructions for crocheting a tighter fabric with fewer gaps, which is ideal for pillowcases.
The Tulip Stitch
Bring color and cheerfulness to your craft project by crocheting beautiful flowers. Watch the helpful video to learn how to turn three yarn colors into pretty tulips using single and double crochet.
I love using this sweet stitch for a spring-themed baby blankie or comforter.
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I love using this sweet stitch for a spring-themed baby blankie or comforter.
Related: 33 Crochet Flower Patterns
Sand Stitch Tutorial and Afghan Square
Practice the sand stitch for a richly textured fabric that highlights bright yarn colors. This stitch is known by several names, including the Moss Stitch and Granite Stitch.
Using the sand stitch, you can crochet an 8″x 8″ square for patchwork or sample swatches. Choose bulky yarns such as Lion Brand’s Wool-Ease Thick + Quick for a warm and snug finish.
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Using the sand stitch, you can crochet an 8″x 8″ square for patchwork or sample swatches. Choose bulky yarns such as Lion Brand’s Wool-Ease Thick + Quick for a warm and snug finish.
Crochet Box Stitch
Improve your crochet skills by learning the easy and enjoyable box stitch. Although this scallop pattern looks pretty in a single color, it really starts to shine when worked in different colors.As well as detailed instructions for a box stitch blanket, a matching shawl pattern is also available.
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Interlocking Shell Stitch
This is a very pretty stitch that is ideal for scrappy blankets and afghans. While you can work it in a single color of yarn, the real magic happens when you switch colors each row so the shells appear to fit together like puzzle pieces.
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A Beginner’s Guide to Interlock Crochet
The interlocking method combines two layers to make fabric that looks good on both sides. You can choose to have identical or different patterns on each side of the fabric.
This is a fantastic project for an intermediate crocheter, ready to try more challenging skills like working in the front/back posts.
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This is a fantastic project for an intermediate crocheter, ready to try more challenging skills like working in the front/back posts.
Colorful Catherine Wheel Stitch
Crochet a stitch that looks like a Catherine wheel using 2 or 3 yarn colors. You’ll use single crochet and cluster stitches to create the curled firework design.
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The Double Crochet V Stitch
Follow this video tutorial to master the double crochet V stitch in less than 5 minutes! This simple yet pretty pattern works well with vibrant colors. Make a multi-colored sweater, dress, or cardi using this classic stitch. Try the V-Stitch Cardigan for a nearly seamless project.
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Related: 30 Free Crochet Dress Patterns
Arrow Stitch
Create a rich, rippled chevron texture using the vintage arrow stitch. The background color contains double crochet stitches, and the colorful arrows are made using treble crochet (tr). Using bright, cheerful colors against the muted primary color makes the arrow stitch stand out.
What I love about this pattern is that both sides of the fabric look uniquely beautiful. The front side resembles colorful chevrons and the back is striped.
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What I love about this pattern is that both sides of the fabric look uniquely beautiful. The front side resembles colorful chevrons and the back is striped.
Tips for Trying New Stitches
There’s nothing more fun than swatching different crochet stitches and watching a new texture unfold. Here are some things to keep in mind as you experiment.
That was so fun! Now what?
Invitation to our Facebook group
Come discuss different crochet stitches and lots of other projects and techniques in our Make & Do Crew Facebook group. Here thousands of helpful crocheters answer each others questions and share their stitches. Join us!
Matt Zemanek says
the plaited basketweave is a knit stitch… Not crochet.
Chris says
Big oops! Wrong name — it is as Yvonne who wants to do more creative work with her Crochet– sorry Yvonne (AND Allie!).
Chris says
Great site! So many different combinations of Crochet stitches–just what I was looking for!!!! A suggestion for Allie (she wants to do more than Crochet afghans and doilies — tho’ there’s nothing wrong with that!?–). Have you tried to make Crocheted/beaded jewelry?). There are places you can check out on the web for this kind of creative, expressive craftwork.
I’ve bookmarked several multi-stitch patterns and hope (plan?) to use one for the Long Island Fair this year–(Cross
your fingers for me- first place is a BLUE RIBBON!!). Thanks for all your hard work and ‘specially for your love of the craft.
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Hey Chris,
Beaded jewelry sounds like a really cool use of crochet. I haven’t tried it before. Thanks for the idea!
Happy crocheting!
Jess
Marilyn kittleson says
I seriously wanted to use your #15 stitch pattern for my afghan but it seems to me that #15is the wrong one shown I am sure I can figure this out to by looking at the picture . Not necessarily what I had in mind .
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
I think that stitch would be lovely for an afghan! You can find the step by step tutorial here.
Happy crocheting!
Jess
Susan Hiles says
Wanted to learn the Two colored plaited basket weave and it’s a Knit stitch . Darn
Lilia Vanini says
Wow!! Thank you so much to featured my FREE Crochet Star Stitch!
I just added pictures to the free pattern to make it eve more easy! take a look to #3 Star Stitch by Liliacraftparty
if you have any questions or need more help do not hesitate to contact me
Thank you
Lilia/Liliacraftparty
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
You are welcome, Lilia! Thanks so much for creating an awesome and helpful tutorial!
Allie says
*except when I painted every square inch of my tiny bedroom in college a combo of tangerine orange and neon green* This is when I remember my parents’ misguided decision to paint a tiny kitchen yellow, “to brighten it up”. 🙂
I’m only beginning (ok planning) to learn crochet but I’ve bookmarked this page! I am very bad at crafts so I expect a looong learning curve – thanks in advance for sharing so generously.
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Hahaha! So funny about the kitchen, Allie. I did that once too! Only mine was a super small studio apartment. I repainted it within like three days. I called that yellow “the color of insanity.” 🙂
I’d love for you to come back to learn more crochet skills when you’re ready! Do you know about my Modern Crochet 101 course? It might be a good starting place for you. You can take it for 99 cents with my instructor referral link. Either way, please let me know if you have questions as you get started with crochet. I bet you’ll be better than you think! 🙂
http://skl.sh/2aaucCf
sue says
Hi I have been crocheting since I was 19. Love it and am always eager to learn new stitches..etc I also knit weave and quilt and sew.. you name it.. LOL
I really like your site, Keep up the great work,
Sue
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Thank you so much, Sue!
Judy says
Thank you for this collection of fun and pretty stitches to try. Do note, however, that #5 is a knit stitch. That stills leaves plenty for us crocheters to work with, but I just thought you should know.
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Ha–yes! Thank you so much for pointing that out, Judy. I am in the process of updating it.
Yvonne Bolger says
What a lovely job you did on the multiple stitch options. I, too, love to crochet but, my problem is, what do you make after you’ve made afghans and pillows and scarves and shawls, etc. for everybody.? I, also, love thread crochet …..have made yards and yards of edgings, doilies, pictures, etc. Have even made paper weights by thread crocheting over flat, smooth rocks.. Have made dozens of Amigurumi. How about some new way to embellish clothing with crochet??? Actually, will be making your fingerless gloves as that will be a first for me. Thanks!!
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
Haha, sounds like you’ve had a prolific crochet career, Yvonne! I know what you mean though. I too like to come up with totally new ways to use crochet. I really like your idea of embellishing clothing. I’ll have to think about that a bit more. In the mean time, have you tried any of my flip flop patterns? They might give you a new yarn adventure! 🙂
Vicki V Olsen says
We have a local organization, From the Heart that sends crocheted or knit items to many organizations, schools etc. Hats and blankets for chemo and radiation patients at the cancer units, warm hats and scarves to school kids who don’t have $ to buy them, hats, blankets to homeless, vets, etc. They gave donated yarn so I decide what I want to help make that they may need now and go pick up some yarn. I love it and enjoy challenging myself to learn new stitches.
Jess @ Make and Do Crew says
That sounds like a wonderful cause, Vicki! May I ask where you live? I always have extra yarn and I’d love to donate it to an organization like yours.
Jess