"Shell stitch" is a name given to some of the various crochet stitch pattern combinations that feature multiple stitches worked into a single stitch. One thing these patterns have in common: the results sort of resemble seashells, in that each "shell" is narrow at the bottom and fans out and becomes wider at the top.
Shell stitches can be combined with various other stitch patterns to create unlimited different textures and effects. There are bunches of different shell stitch variations -- and all of them are useful and beautiful!
Want to learn how to crochet the shell stitch? The following tutorials and patterns will show you how to crochet different shell stitch variations.
Shell Stitch Video
Shell Stitch -- Video Screenshot © About.com
Watch this free video to learn how to do the shell stitch.
Shell Stitch -- Large Close-Up Detail Photo
Solid Shell Stitch -- Photo © Amy Solovay
This close-up photo will give you a good look at the details of how a shell stitch looks.
Treble Crochet Shell Stitch Instructions
Treble Crochet Shell Stitch -- Photo © Amy Solovay
This version of the shell stitch is taller and wider than the basic shell stitch; it's constructed using treble crochet and half double crochet stitches.
Lacy Treble Shell Stitch Instructions
Lacy Treble Shell Stitch -- Photo © Amy Solovay
The lacy treble shell stitch is derived from the treble crochet stitch linked above. The main difference: instead of the shells being totally comprised of treble crochets, the trebles are alternated with chain stitches. The chains open up the pattern a bit, making it lighter, lacier, and quicker to crochet. I happen to like the look of it better as well, although your opinion may differ.
I'm so enthralled with this stitch that I've been using it to crochet bunches of projects, with the intention of publishing the free crochet patterns for you to enjoy.
Here are a couple of the free patterns I've already published:
Shell Stitch Border Patterns
Shell stitch borders have been around for quite some time. I'm not sure when exactly they were invented, but I did find one example dated 1855. That vintage pattern is one that's still totally relevant today. I've shared a derivative pattern that I like better than the original; for one thing, I like it because it includes a corner, while the original does not.
Half Double Crochet Shell Edging Pattern
Half Double Crochet Shell Stitch Edging -- Photo © Amy Solovay
This simple edging is suitable for use on just about any square or rectangular crochet project. Corner instructions are included so you'll be able to use the pattern for finishing afghans, blankets, linens etc.
Two-Color Treble Crochet Shell Stitch Edging Pattern
Two-Color Treble Crochet Shell Stitch Edging -- Photo © Amy Solovay
This edging features an intricate two-color design that incorporates tall shell stitches and surface crochet slip stitches.
Shell Stitch Afghan Patterns
Shell Stitch Baby Blanket -- Photo © Amy Solovay
Find free afghan and blanket patterns featuring different variations of the shell stitch. This list includes crochet shell stitch baby blanket patterns too.
References
Crochet Edgings, Insertions Medallions
With Illustrations and Instructions by Harry B. Smythe
Publication date: 1917
Publisher: Duncan Publishing Company
St. Louis
Encyclopedia of Needlework
Therese De Dillmont
Royal Society Crochet Lessons Book No. 9
Copyright 1917
By H.E. Verran Company,
New York
Peterson's Magazine, Volumes 35-36
Publication date: 1855
Richardson's Complete Crochet Book,
Book No 2
Publication date: 1916
Published by Richardson's Silk Company
The Harmony Guide to Crochet Stitches
Sylvia Cosh and James Walters
Publication Date: 1986
Lyric Books Limited
ISBN# 0 7111 0028 4
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