In this free step-by-step crochet stitch tutorial I show how to make the shells on shelves 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, and other summer crochet projects.
This tutorial includes photo instructions and a video tutorial (see below). The shells on shelves stitch is a repeat of two rows. For this crochet stitch you should know how to make single crochet and double crochet. This stitch is very easy to make and suitable for beginners.
Materials and tools
Yarn: For this tutorial I use Soft FRAYA Cotton 8/4 100% Organic cotton 50g – 180 m yarn, color: dusty pink. 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 shells on shelves stitch.
Photo instructions for the shells on shelves stitch
Row 1
1. Start by chaining multiples of four plus three. You will start working in the fifth chain from your hook.
2. So, make a double crochet in the fifth chain from your hook.
3. Then make three more double crochets in the same stitch.
4. Skip three stitches and make four double crochets in the next stitch.
5. Then repeat: skip three stitches and make four double crochets in the next stitch.
6. Continue working in the same way until the end of the row until you have two stitches left.
7. Then skip one stitch and make a double crochet in the last stitch.
8. At the end of the row chain three.
Row 2
9. Turn your work around. Chain three counts as a double crochet. You will start working in the second stitch.
10. So, make a double crochet in the second stitch.
11. Continue making double crochets in every stitch until the end of the row.
12. Make the last double crochet in the turning chain of the previous row.
Row 3
13. Chain three and turn your work around. You will start working in the third stitch of the previous row.
14. So, make four double crochets in the third stitch of the previous row.
15. Then skip three stitches and make four double crochets in the next stitch.
16. Then repeat: skip three stitches and make four double crochets in the next stitch.
17. Continue working in the same way until the end of the row.
18. At the end of the row make a double crochet in the turning chain. For the rest of the pattern repeat rows 2 and 3.
Finished shells on shelves stitch
19. Done!
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