Crochet Shell Stitch Pattern

Instructions

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1. 1Stitch multiple and foundationShell stitch starts on a multiple of 6 ch + 2; each 6 chains hold one shell and the sc after it. For the swatch, ch 26 (6 x 4 + 2).
2. 2Row 1 (foundation row)Sc in 2nd ch from hook, *skip 2 ch, shell (5 dc) in next ch, skip 2 ch, sc in next ch; rep from * 4 times. (4 shells, 5 sc) The shells should fan out over the chain; if the chain pulls tight, work more loosely.
3. 3Pattern rows (2-row repeat)Row 2: ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, 2 dc in same st (half shell), *skip 2 sts, sc in centre dc of shell, skip 2 sts, shell in next sc; rep from * 3 times, skip 2 sts, sc in centre of last shell, skip 2 sts, 3 dc in last sc. (3 full shells, 2 half shells) Row 3: ch 1, turn, sc in first dc, *skip 2 sts, shell in next sc, skip 2 sts, sc in centre dc of shell; rep from * 4 times, working the last sc into the top of the ch-3. (4 shells) Rows 2 and 3 form the repeat.
4. 4Crochet the swatchAfter Row 1, work rows 2-3 five times, then Row 2 once more, for 12 rows in total. Each row the shells nestle between the ones below, making a wavy texture. The half shells keep the side edges straight.
5. 5What to make with itShell stitch is a favourite for baby blankets, summer shawls, kitchen towels and blanket edgings. For a baby blanket, ch 122 (a multiple of 6 + 2; 20 shells, about 67 cm) and work to 80 cm; you'll need about 450 g. To use it only as an edging, adjust the edge stitch count to a multiple of 6 and work a single Row 1.
6. 6FinishingAfter the last row, cut the yarn and pull it through the loop on the hook. Weave the ends in behind the shells. Dampen the cotton swatch, lay it out to 13.5 x 13 cm, straighten the shells with your fingers and let it dry.