Crochet Shell Stitch: Beginner's Guide to Shell Stitch Crochet
May 9, 2025
The Crochet Shell Stitch is a must-learn if you’re ready to add a touch of elegance to your crochet projects. With its scalloped, fan-like design, the crochet shell stitch adds beautiful texture and a classic look to everything from blankets to baby clothes. This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through what the shell stitch is, how to crochet it step by step, and how you can use it in your next project.
What is Shell Stitch Crochet?
The crochet shell stitch is a combination of multiple double crochet stitches worked into the same stitch or space, creating a shell or fan shape. It’s one of those foundational crochet stitches that looks impressive but is actually quite simple to learn.
A basic shell stitch usually consists of:
5 double crochet stitches
All worked into the same stitch or space
There are many variations (using 3, 5, or 7 stitches), but we’ll focus on the most beginner-friendly version using 5 double crochets per shell.
Why You'll Love the Shell Crochet Stitch
Easy to learn – perfect for beginners once you know how to double crochet.
Textured and decorative – gives a lacy, scalloped edge.
Great for blankets, scarves, and borders.
Customizable – you can adjust the number of stitches to make wider or narrower shells.
Materials Needed
For the crochet shell stitch, you’ll need:
Yarn: Any weight works, but we recommend worsted weight yarn (category 4) or sport weight (3) for beginners. I will be using hobbii friends cotton 8/6.
Hook: Check your yarn label for the recommended hook size. For my yarn, I’ll be using a 3.75 (F hook)
Stitches to Know First
Before you begin the shell stitch, make sure you know how to:
How to Crochet the Shell Stitch (Step-by-Step Tutorial)
Setup: Foundation Chain
Start by chaining a multiple of 6, plus 2 extra chains.
Example: Chain 24 + 2 = 26 chains total. Make sure to chain loosely so your first row doesn’t curl too much.
Step 1: First Row
Double crochet into the second chain from the hook.
Skip 2 chains, then in the next chain, work 5 double crochets (this is your first shell).
Skip 2 chains, then single crochet in the next chain.
Repeat: Skip 2, work a shell (5 dc), skip 2, sc in the next chain across the row.
End the row with a double crochet in the final chain.
Step 2: Second Row
Chain 3 and turn. Work 2 dc into the same stitch.
Single crochet into the center stitch of each shell from the previous row.
Work a shell Stitch (5dc) into each single crochet from the previous row.
At the end of the row, work 3 double crochet stitches into the top of the turning chain.
Step 3: Third Row
Chain 3 and turn.
Work a shell Stitch (5dc) into each single crochet from the previous row.
Single crochet into the center stitch of each shell from the previous row.
At the end of the row, double crochet into the top of the turning chain.
From here, you will repeat rows two and three for as long as you’d like it to be!
Tips for Shell Stitch Success
Count your stitches often to make sure each shell is centered.
Use stitch markers to keep track of where your shells begin.
Practice on a small swatch before starting a full project.
Shell Stitch Variations
Open Shell Stitch: Add chains between double crochets for a more lacy effect.
Half Shell Stitch: Use fewer stitches for a subtler wave.
Offset Shells: Stagger your shells every other row for a brick-like layout.
Beginner-Friendly Shell Stitch Project Ideas
Soft baby blanket
Scalloped-edge dishcloth
Cozy shell-stitch scarf
Decorative pillow cover
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other stitches for shells besides double crochet? Yes! You can use half-double crochet or treble crochet for different textures.
Is the shell stitch reversible? It has a nice texture on both sides, but one side is usually more defined.
How do I keep the edges straight? Make sure to end each row with a double crochet and count stitches carefully.
Final Thoughts
The crochet shell stitch is a beautiful and surprisingly simple stitch that adds personality to any project. Whether you're making a full blanket or just a cute little swatch, the shell stitch is a great one to have in your repertoire. Now that you know how to crochet the shell stitch, you’re ready to create something special.
What’s next?
Looking for more crochet tips and tutorials? Follow the quick links below for other beginner stitches or head straight to the full crochet stitches page of my website!
