by Kathy Bieze

Created on: January 26, 2010

A shell stitch, also known as a fan stitch, is a group of crochet stitches that are all stitched in one base stitch. This method causes the top of the grouping to spread out into a fan, or shell shape. Most times this will be done with an uneven number of stitches in the group. This will leave a “middle” stitch to work another shell stitch into. A shell stitch also make a nice scalloped edging for afghans, scarves, sweaters etc.

Here I will give instructions to make a fabric with shell stitches that are worked close together.

How to make the Shell Stitch

Materials Needed

Worsted Weight Yarn.
I would suggest a light color as it makes it easier to see your stitches. A dark color yarn will make it difficult to see where your stitches should be.

Crochet Hook
Size H (5.0mm) or larger. This size will make your stitches large enough that they are easy for you to see. This size hook is easy for most people to hold on to well.

Chain 38
If you would like your piece to be larger or smaller this pattern stitch is base on a multiple of chain six plus four.

Row 1: 2 double crochet in fourth chain from hook for half shell, * skip 2 chain, 1 single crochet in next chain, skip 2 chain, 5 double crochet in next chain for a full shell, repeat from * to last 6 chain, skip 2 chain, 3 double crochet in last stitch for half shell, chain 1 turn.
Row 2: 1 single crochet in first double crochet, * 1 shell in in next single crochet, 1 single crochet in center of next shell, repeat from * across, working last single crochet in top of turning chain. Chain 3 turn.
Row 3: With turning chain as first double crochet, work 2 more double crochet in first single crochet, *1 single crochet in center double crochet of next shell, 1 shell in next single crochet, repeat from * across, end with half shell in last single crochet, chain 1 turn.
Repeat rows two and three for pattern.

Continue in this manner for as long as you need to become comfortable with the stitch. Finish off. Weave in ends. If you wish you could continue along and make this into a long scarf.

Note: For a more raised effect, work all stitches in the back loops only.

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