Are you finding basic crochet stitches a little boring right now? Want something exciting and new? Then you will want to check out these 21 decorative crochet stitches. These are the kind of stitches that turn heads so you’ll definitely want to make them!
The best part? These stitches will help you to further your mastery of the needle art of crochet.
Some of the stitches on this list are a little more complicated, but the effect they add to your projects makes them worth the effort. Plus, how rewarding is it when you take on a challenging technique and finally get it down pat
21 Decorative Crochet Stitches
Those of us that are frequently browsing Pinterest for new patterns know that in crochet many different types of decorative stitches exist.
Sometimes I know I’ve been scared off by reading a pattern and being unsure what stitch it was calling for and thereby missing out on something I surely would have enjoyed making.
I decided eventually that I didn’t want to be scared off anymore and took to learning stitches one at a time.
The great thing about learning stitches individually apart from a pattern for a larger project is that you don’t get overwhelmed by the project as a whole.
Instead, you can focus on just learning and practicing the one stitch until you are comfortable with it. Then the next time you run across that stitch in a pattern, you can say to yourself, “Hey, I know that stitch!”
1. Woven Stitch
This is a great stitch for the beginner to learn. It only uses single crochet and chain. It also creates a very different look than just simply single crochet on its own.
Feel free to get creative and switch to different colors as you change between rows. Due to the flexibility of the fabric this stitch creates, you can use this stitch for a variety of projects from afghan squares to hats to purses.
How To Create The Woven Stitch
First thing, chain any number of stitches, ending on an even number, then add 1.
Row 1:
Single chain into the third chain from the hook. Chain 1. Skip 1. Single chain into the next chain. Continue with (Chain 1. Skip 1. Single chain into the next chain) until the end. Turn to start next row.
Row 2:
Chain 2. Skip first single chain. Single chain in empty chain 1 space. Chain 1. Skip the next single chain. Continue (Single chain in empty chain 1 space. Chain 1.
Skip the next single chain) until the end of the row. Make final single chain into the last chain of the previous row. Turn to start the next row.
Row 3:
Repeat Row 2.
Row 4:
Repeat Row 3. Continue until desired size.
2. Spider Stitch
Another stitch that is great for beginners, this stitch also uses only single stitch and chain stitch. This stitch ends up being totally reversible, making it ideal for many projects.
It creates a lace type pattern without being too open, making a nice stitch to use for throws or shawls. It is a good idea to use a hook a couple of sizes larger than the yarn calls for to give it more flexibility.
If you want it to be denser, stick with a smaller hook.
How To Create The Spider Stitch
Begin by chaining any numbers of stitches you like, as long as it ends with an odd number. Then add 2 more chain stitches. If you are adding to an already in progress pattern, you must use an odd number of stitches as well.
Row 1:
In the THIRD chain from the hook: Single chain, chain 1, single chain. Then SKIP 1 chain stitch.
In the NEXT chain: Single chain, chain 1, singles chain. Then SKIP 1 chain stitch.
Continue down the row with: Single chain, chain 1, single chain. UNTIL you are to the last TWO chain stitches. SKIP 1 chain stitch, SINGLE CHAIN in last chain stitch and turn.
Row 2:
CHAIN 2. Skip the first TWO single chain stitches. In each CHAIN-1 space, SINGLE CHAIN, CHAIN 1, SINGLE CHAIN, until the LAST TWO single chain stitches. TURN.
Continue to repeat row 2 for remainder of pattern until you reach desired length.
Find patterns that use the Spider stitch here.
3. Rope Stitch
The crochet rope stitch is a lighter, lacier stitch than the crochet woven and spider stitches. Because it is lighter, it would work well as a sweater, shrug, or other garment worn in the slightly warmer Spring season.
Sometimes referred to the V-stitch, the crochet rope stitch, uses only the chain stitch and double crochet stitch. It is slightly more difficult as the woven and spider stitches but is still good for a beginner.
How To Create The Rope Stitch
Begin this decorative crochet stitch with chaining your desired length in a multiple of 3.
*If you are adding to a work in progress, be sure to work in stitches of multiples of 3 and add 2.
Row 1:
In the FOURTH chain from the hook, DOUBLE CROCHET. CHAIN 1. Then in next chain, DOUBLE CROCHET. Skip 1. In the next chain stitch, DOUBLE CROCHET. Then CHAIN 1. DOUBLE CROCHET in the next chain.
CONTINUE ROW AS FOLLOWS: Skip 1. In the next chain stitch, DOUBLE CROCHET. Then CHAIN 1. DOUBLE CROCHET in the next chain.
In LAST CHAIN, DOUBLE CROCHET. Turn.
Row 2:
Begin by chaining 3. Skip the first 2 DOUBLE CROCHET from Row 1. In the CHAIN-1 SPACE—DOUBLE CROCHET, CHAIN 1, DOUBLE CROCHET. Then, skip two DOUBLE CROCHET.
CONTINUE ROW AS FOLLOWS: In the CHAIN-1 SPACE—DOUBLE CROCHET, CHAIN 1, DOUBLE CROCHET. Then, skip two DOUBLE CROCHET.
TO END—skip last DOUBLE CROCHET and make 1 DOUBLE CROCHET in the top of the beginning CHAIN-3.
Continue with Row 2 until desired length.
4. Iris Stitch
The Iris crochet stitch is similar to the rope stitch the previous decorative crochet stitch. Also using the CHAIN stitch and DOUBLE CROCHET stitch.
It is also a lacy pattern and works well for garments worn in warm weather. It is a very versatile pattern that be used to accent other patterns or used on its own.
Iris Stitch How To Guide
To begin this decorative crochet stitch, you will need to chain a number of stitches that is a multiple of 4. Then add 3. IF you are adding this to a project that is already underway, you will need to work multiples of 4 and add 1 instead of 3.
Row 1:
In the 5th chain from the hook– 2 DOUBLE CROCHET, CHAIN 1, 2 DOUBLE CROCHET.
Skip 3 chain stitches. In the next chain—2 DOUBLE CROCHET, CHAIN 1, 2 DOUBLE CROCHET.
CONTINUE with Skip 3 chain stitches. In the next chain—2 DOUBLE CROCHET, CHAIN 1, 2 DOUBLE CROCHET. Until the last 2 chain stitches.
SKIP 1 chain stitch, DOUBLE CROCHET in the last chain stitch. TURN.
Row 2:
CHAIN 3. Skip the FIRST 3 DOUBLE CROCHET stitches.
Then in the CHAIN-1 space—2 DOUBLE CROCHET, CHAIN 1, 2 DOUBLE CROCHET. Skip the next 4 DOUBLE CROCHET stitches.
Continue with –in the CHAIN-1 space—2 DOUBLE CROCHET, CHAIN 1, 2 DOUBLE CROCHET. Skip the next 4 DOUBLE CROCHET stitches.
END with 1 DOUBLE CROCHET in the TOP of CHAIN-3 beginning stitch.
Continue with the pattern for ROW 2 until desired length.
Learn more about the iris stitch here.
5. Shell Stitch
Do you want to upgrade your old crochet items but don’t want to redo them? The crochet shell stitch is an advanced crochet stitch that adds decorative appeal to projects. It makes a great border, or you can work it in rows.
Crochet the shell stitch in a single color to create a beautiful texture or change colors from row to row for a more intricate design.
6. Cluster Stitch
The cluster stitch is a gorgeous and fairly easy crochet stitch that creates a dense fabric with a beautiful and reversible texture. It would work wonderfully for baby blankets, dishcloths, scarves, and so much more.
You really only need to know how to single crochet and double crochet for this pattern, so if you’ve got those down you should definitely give it a try!
7. Spike Stitch
Aptly named, the spike stitch is an incredibly unique crochet stitch that any avid hooker needs to try. You can make the most unusual crochet afghans with a stitch like this as well as other crochet projects like bags or scarves.
Spike stitch can also be used to create a design by playing with different heights of the stitch within the same row.
8. Crocodile Stitch
Crocodile stitch is a crochet stitch that looks like reptile scales, fish scales, or even bird feathers. Once you make a few scales, it feels natural. This stitch’s frilled look makes it ideal for fantasy items inspired by dragons and mermaids, but it’s even fun for textured pillow covers, sweater yokes, and bags!
9. Block Stitch
The block stitch is such a cool, not to mention beautiful, crochet stitch and it’s so easy to make. This stitch is a great crochet stitch for blankets, coasters, and pretty much anything!
You can use the block stitch with one color or use multiples colors to really bring out its beauty. You will love the modern look and the versatility of this stitch depending on which colors you use!
10. Puff Stitch
Puff stitch, as you can imagine, results in puffy fabric that’s perfect for blankets and clothing items. It’s an adorable, old-fashioned look and really easy to learn. It just takes some knowledge of working with half double crochet and keeping your stitches nice and loose.
Puff stitches are ideal for making fabric that looks cozy and stylish all at once. You can also use it for decorative items like throws, mats, and other things.
11. Popcorn Stitch
The popcorn stitch really pops! It’s a nicely rounded, compact oval that stands out from the fabric. It takes a bit more time to make than other raised stitches,
Each bobble or “popcorn” has a puffed texture that makes a fun border, but also adds warmth and thickness when grouped together to make hats, blankets, and more.
12. Waffle Stitch
Crochet waffle stitch is a fantastic way to add a textured grid pattern to your crochet fabric, and as it only uses treble and post stitches, it’s easier than you might think.
Once you’ve done your first few rows, you can really get into a rhythm with it, and it’s great for adding a bit of extra detail to projects like scarves and cushions.
13. Harlequin Stitch
This is a classic crochet harlequin stitch. A sister to Catherine’s Wheel stitch and Starburst stitch. You may have seen this stitch in heirloom afghans and baby blankets.
It’s a beautiful vintage stitch that creates eye-catching designs, especially when worked in stripes. It can be a little tricky, but an intermediate crocheter should have no problem picking up this stitch.
Follow the tutorial from Just Be Crafty here
14. Cable Stitch
Cables infuse rich textures into the fabric and give them fun, visual interest. You can use this stitch to make blankets, hats, scarves, and more.
Crocheted cables are made by skipping a set of stitches, then crossing front and back post stitches to create the twisted quality of a cable. The crochet cable stitch may seem complex, but it’s not as hard as you think.
Follow the tutorial from Look At What I Made here
15. Chevron Stitch
The chevron, also sometimes called a crochet ripple, is an inverted “v” shaped pattern that might also be seen as a “zigzag”. In crochet, a “chevron stitch” is any stitch pattern with peaks and valleys. Increases and decreases are used to accomplish the ripple effect.
You can use any yarn of any color and weight. It particularly looks great in sweeping colorways or with gradient yarn. It’s the perfect pattern for crocheting while binge-watching TV.
Follow the tutorial from Red Heart Team here
16. Larksfoot Stitch
The larksfoot stitch is a unique crochet stitch because each “foot” is larger and distinctive. It looks like a square but there is a long point, like a claw of a bird’s foot.
This is a popular stitch for scarves but it can be used for all sorts of crochet projects. Try experimenting with this neat crochet stitch on a small scale and build up to making larger creations, such as blankets.
17. Pineapple Stitch
The pineapple stitch is the popular term for a motif used in vintage crocheted lace. It is recognizable motif that makes beautiful designs, and you may be surprised to discover that it’s actually really easy to make.
Because it is so delicate, it is used for lightweight items, such as shirts and scarves. If you want something decorative, the pineapple stitch is a wonderful choice.
Follow the tutorial from My Picot here
18. Tulip Stitch
How can you not just adore a field of flowers that exudes color and cheerfulness? The tulip stitch looks sweet when featured in most crochet projects, but it would look adorable when used to crochet a baby blanket for a little girl!
Another perk about this stitch is that it happens to be reversible, meaning it looks equally beautiful on either side.
Follow the tutorial from Hopeful Honey here
19. Shamrock Stitch
If you’re looking for a stitch that creates an interesting pattern that you can recognize at once, you’re at the right place! The Crochet Shamrock Stitch creates, you guessed it right, rows and rows of shamrocks.
The intricate shamrocks are a joy to look at! Although it may be a little complicated, the effort you exerted in learning how to make this stitch will all be worth it when you the shamrocks start popping.
20. Primrose Stitch
The primrose stitch is another very pretty crochet stitch with a lovely texture. It’s a 2-row repeat stitch pattern, that you’ll be able to get the hang of it very quickly. The first row creates the bottom part of the shell and the second row creates the fan part of the shell.
It creates a beautiful shell look when you work it up and makes any project a little more appealing to the eye. It looks great in almost any crochet projects.
Follow the tutorial from Dabbles And Babbles here
21. Feather Stitch
This is called the feather stitch, as the clusters of double crochet and eyelets will remind you of birds feathers. The stitch creates a substantial fabric with a lot of interest and loads of potential for color play.
It is a very relaxing stitch to work. It is best to use 2 or more colors, so that the stitch design is more apparent.
Check out our list of different types of stitches for you to learn:
- Open Crochet Stitches
- Textured Crochet Stitches
- Tight Crochet Stitches
- Stretchy Crochet Stitches
- Crochet Stitches for Blankets
- Advanced Crochet Stitches To Expand Your Skills
21 New Crochet Decorative Stitches In The Bag
All of these decorative crochet stitches can be used separately, together, or added onto to other works in progress. From shawls and garments, to bags and blankets, let your imagination run wild.
As Henry Ford said, “anyone who stops learning is old, whether at eighty or twenty.” So stay young and keep learning knew decorative crochet stitches.
You will thank yourself for it when you are creating new patterns which you never knew you had in you.
Happy Crocheting!
