In this free step-by-step crochet stitch tutorial I show how to make the aligned shell stitch. This stitch is a lacy crochet stitch. The fabric turns out light and breathable. It works great for shawls and wraps, lightweight scarves, lacy crochet summer tops and tanks, lightweight blankets and other summer crochet projects. This stitch can also be used in decorative crochet projects for the home.
This crochet stitch tutorial includes photo instructions and a video tutorial (see below). The aligned stitch is a repeat of two rows. For this crochet stitch you should know how to make single crochet and double crochet.
Materials and tools
Yarn: For this tutorial I use Soft FRAYA Cotton 8/4 100% Organic cotton 50g – 180 m yarn, color: eucalyptus. However, you can use your favorite yarn depending on the crochet project.
Hook: I use a 2.0 mm hook. If you are using a different yarn, choose the hook size that is recommended on your yarn label.
Printable PDF and chart
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Video tutorial
The video tutorial below shows how to make the aligned shell stitch.
Photo instructions for the aligned shell stitch
Row 1
1. Start by chaining a multiple of five plus four. You will start working in the sixth chain from your hook.
2. So, make a double crochet in the sixth chain from your hook.
3. Then make four more double crochets in the same stitch. You have just made the first shell!
4. Skip four stitches and make five double crochets in the next stitch.
5. Continue working in the same way until the end of the row: skip four stitches and make five double crochets in the next stitch.
6. At the end of the row skip two stitches and make a double crochet in the last stitch.
7. Then chain one.
Row 2
8. Turn your work around. Chain one does not count as a stitch. You will start working in the very first stitch.
9. So, make a single crochet in the very first stitch.
10. Chain five.
11. Then skip five double crochets and make a single crochet in between the two shells of the previous row.
12. Chain five.
13. Then skip five double crochets and make a single crochet in between the two shells of the previous row.
14. Continue working in the same way until the end of the row. At the end of the row chain five again.
15. Make the last single crochet in the turning chain of the previous row.
16. Then chain three.
Row 3
17. Turn your work around. Chain three counts as a double crochet. Next you will work in the third chain of the chain five that you made in the previous row.
18. So, make a double crochet in the third chain of the chain five.
19. Then make four more double crochets in the same chain.
20. Make five double crochets in the third chain of the next chain five.
21. Continue working in the same way until the end of the row.
22. At the end of the row make a double crochet in the last single crochet of the previous row. For the rest of the pattern repeat rows 2 and 3.
Finished aligned shell stitch
23. Done!
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