The camel stitch crochet technique is easy to master once you get the hang of it. The hardest part is remembering that you are always working into the back bar.
When learning how to create the camel stitch, you may want to use a stitch marker to differentiate the front from the back.
What Is the Camel Stitch Crochet Technique?
The camel stitch crochet technique is a specialty stitch that only uses the half double crochet stitch. It creates an interesting texture by crocheting into the diagonal back bar (third loop).
By working into the diagonal back bar, you are pushing the stitches to the front, creating a raised braided texture.
When Would You Use the Camel Stitch Crochet Technique?
The camel stitch crochet technique is fairly simple to learn. The technique creates a braided pattern that resembles knitting.
The camel stitch crochet technique can be found in projects such as:
- Hats
- Scarves
- Cowls
- Ear Warmers
- Blanket Borders
- Hat Brims
Step-by-Step Camel Stitch Crochet Tutorial
If you know how to create a foundation chain and can work a half double crochet stitch (UK term half treble crochet) the camel stitch crochet technique should be very easy to understand.
Even if you are not familiar with the double crochet stitch, you can learn the camel stitch.
You will need:
- Yarn
- Crochet hook that suits yarn
- Scissors
- Darning needle to work in the end when you are done
Camel Crochet Technique Tutorial:
1. Begin by creating a slip knot.
2. Crocheting a foundation chain. You can use as many stitches as you would like. Unlike a lot of specialty crochet stitches, the camel stitch crochet method does not require a certain multiple.
3. Add 2 additional stitches at the end of the foundation chain. These stitches are for turning.
4. Work into the third chain from the hook with a half double crochet (UK Tern half treble crochet). To do this, yarn over and insert your hook into the third chain. Yarn over and pull through. Yarn over again and pull the hook through all three loops on the hook.
5. In the next chain, yarn over and insert your hook into the third chain. Yarn over and pull through. Yarn over again and pull the hook through all three loops on the hook.
6. Repeat step 5 for every chain along the foundation chain.
7. Chain 2 and turn your work. The opposite side of the fabric is now facing you.
8. Yarn over and insert your hook into the diagonal back bar. This is often referred to as the third loop. It is the diagonal loop located under the top two loops you usually work in. For the camel stitch crochet technique, you will always be working into the back bar.
9. Yarn over and pull through. Yarn over and pull through all three loops located on your hook.
10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 until you reach the end of the row. Be certain to count your stitches, so you do not miss the last stitch.
11. Chain 2 and turn your work. The front side of the fabric is now facing you.
12. Yarn over and turn your work on its side so you will be working from the top to the bottom. This makes it easier to work into the back bar. The back will be facing you.
13. Place your hook under the back bar. Yarn over and pull through. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops located on the hook.
14. Yarn over and place your hook under the next back bar. Yarn over and pull through. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops located on the hook.
15. Repeat step 14 until you reach the end of the row. Be certain to count your stitches. On the last stitch, do not go into the back bar. Instead, go into the back loop.
16. Continue repeating steps 7 through 15 until you get your desired length.
Once you have practised the camel stitch crochet technique, it is time to work on a pattern. Below are 10 patterns that use the camel stitch crochet technique.
1. The Marlen Hat Easy Beginner Winter Chunky Crochet Ladies Beanie Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns
This hat is intended for beginners. The chunky winter beanie pattern has a ribbed design that looks classy. It would make a great accessory that would go with any outfit.
The pattern is written in standard US terms. There is only one size. You will need bulky weight yarn, an 8 mm crochet hook, a yarn needle, and scissors.
Find the Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns HERE
2. Ana Ear Warmer Crochet Pattern by CrochetCreationsUS
The Ana Ear Warmer is a beautiful and comfortable winter accessory. It has a textured pattern that is appealing to the eye.
Make this ear warmer for yourself, as a gift, or to sell at craft shows. Included in the PDF download are written instructions, photos, and video links.
The pattern is written for size adult. There is a chart to make smaller sizes. You will need an H 5 mm crochet hook and worsted weight yarn.
Find the Pattern by CrochetCreationsUS HERE
3. The Maxim Scarf DIY Camel Stitch Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns
The Maxim Scarf Pattern works up quickly using chunky weight yarn and the camel stitch crochet technique. It creates a warm, extra long winter scarf with fun pompoms. It is fluffy, soft, and ideal for both men and women.
The pattern is written in standard US terms. There is only one size. You will need bulky weight yarn, an 8 mm crochet hook, stitch markers, a pom pom maker, a yarn needle, and scissors.
Find the Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns HERE
4. Chunky Snow Beanie Crochet Pattern by CrochetItCreationsUS
The Chunky Snow Beanie is a warm crochet pattern that works up quickly using the camel stitch crochet technique.
Once you have completed crocheting the hat, top it off with a big pom pom. When wearing the hat, you can leave the brim folded up for extra warmth, or fold it down for a slouchy look.
Included are instructions for 8 sizes from newborn to adult. The pattern calls for a size 9 mm crochet hook and super bulky weight yarn.
Find the Pattern by CrochetItCreationsUS HERE
5. Camel Stitch Crochet Hat Pattern by Miss Neriss
Are you looking for a free crochet pattern to practice the camel stitch crochet technique? Check out this slouchy hat. Not only is this a great pattern for practising, but the hat is also super cute.
The pattern includes two sizes: child from 4-10 years and adult from 10 years up. This project is worked in the round.
Find the Pattern by Miss Neriss HERE
6. Easy Beginner Winter Chunky Crochet Ladies Neck Warmer Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns
The Mariam Cowl is an easy beginner-friendly pattern. It is the perfect pattern for creating a cowl that looks good and will keep you warm. This trendy oversized cowl is beautiful and will never go out of style.
The pattern is for one size, and it is written in standard US terms. You will need 3 skeins of bulky weight yarn, an 8 mm crochet hook, stitch markers, a yarn needle, and scissors.
Find the Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns HERE
7. The Marlen Infinity Scarf Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns
Who does not love a warm and chunky infinity scarf? The Marlen infinity scarf is thick and ribbed for the cold winter and fall days. It has an elegant and enchanting look that stands out.
The pattern is written in standard US terms. The pattern is for one size scarf. The pattern requires bulky weight yarn, an 8 mm crochet hook, stitch markers, a yarn needle, and scissors.
Find the Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns HERE
8. Unisex Winter Crochet Camel Stitch Hat Pattern by TwoBrothersBlankets
The Camel Stitch Crochet Hat can be worn by both men and women. It has a simple design and 3 brim options to choose from.
You can use your favourite worsted weight (#4) yarn in one or two colours. Then top of the hat with a fluffy pom pom.
Find the Pattern by TwoBrothersBlankets HERE
9. The Mariam Cat Hat Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns
Here is a fun and whimsical cat ear beanie pattern made with the camel stitch crochet stitch. The hat is very thick and warm. This winter accessory can make any outfit playful and flirty.
The pattern is written in standard US terms. The pattern is for one size hat. You will need bulky weight yarn, an 8 mm crochet hook, stitch markers, a yarn needle, and scissors.
Find the Pattern by AvarusCrochetDesigns HERE
Are you ready to try a new stitch? Give the camel stitch crochet technique a try.
Crocheting is fun and there are so many stitches to learn. Check out all our crochet stitch tutorials here.
If you are looking for a stitch that is easy yet creates a beautiful, braided texture, you will love the camel stitch crochet technique.
