![](https://d2culxnxbccemt.cloudfront.net/craft/content/uploads/2016/03/24132752/img-7812-1.jpg)
The crochet shell stitch is beautiful, and it also happens to be one of the simplest decorative techniques to master. It’s done using stitches that create arch-like shells, which become even more eye-catching when stacked. Pair rows with colorwork and it only gets more gorgeous and bold.
Shell Stitch
Level: Easy
Abbreviations
Instructions
Foundation Chain
You need multiples of 6 + 5 chains to start your shell stitch project. For this tutorial, we chained 23 (3 x 6 + 5).
Row 1
![](https://d2culxnxbccemt.cloudfront.net/craft/content/uploads/2016/03/24132958/shell-stitch-1-1.jpg)
Ch 23. Sc in the second ch from the hook. *Skip the next 2 chains, make 5 dcs in the next chain. Skip the next 2 chains, sc in the next chain.* This is your first complete shell. Repeat from * to * until you have 3 chains left.
Skip the next 2 chains and make 3 dcs in the last chain. If desired, switch colors, ch 1 and turn.
Row 2
![](https://d2culxnxbccemt.cloudfront.net/craft/content/uploads/2016/03/24133059/shell-stitch-2-1.jpg)
Sc in the first dc. *Skip the next 2 dcs. Make 5 dc’ in the next sc. Skip the next 2 dcs. Sc in the next (central) dc.* This is your first complete shell for this row. Repeat from * to * until you’ve worked into each shell.
There should now be 3 stitches remaining: 2 dcs and 1 sc. Skip the last 2 dcs and make 3 dcs in the last sc. Switch colors if desired, ch 1 and turn.
Row 3 – End
Repeat Row 2.
Changing Colors
![](https://d2culxnxbccemt.cloudfront.net/craft/content/uploads/2016/03/24133229/crochet-shell-stitch-tutorial-changing-color.jpg)
If you would like to change colors at the start of any row, do so before you make the turning chain at the end of the previous row.
![](https://d2culxnxbccemt.cloudfront.net/craft/content/uploads/2016/03/24133320/shell-stitch-4-1.jpg)
This technique also makes it simple to create a bold color pattern or ombré effect — all the more reason to love it!
Does the count for the foundation change if you choose to use the single crochet foundation chain?
Awesome loved this