In this free step-by-step crochet tutorial I show how to make the solid shell crochet stitch. This stitch is a solid crochet stitch with a nice texture. It is also a reversible crochet stitch that looks the same on both sides. It creates dense, durable fabric and works great for washcloths, blankets, scarves, hats, cardigans, crochet tops and other projects that need structure and durability.
This crochet stitch tutorial includes detailed photo instructions. The solid shell stitch is a repeat of two rows. For this crochet stitch you should know how to make single crochet and double crochet. It is very easy to make and suitable for beginners.
Materials and tools
Yarn: For this tutorial I use Järbo 8/4 100% Cotton Mercerized & Gassed 50 g yarn, color: 32013 (light grey). 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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Photo instructions for the solid shell crochet stitch
Row 1
1. Start by chaining multiples of 6 and then add 2 chains.
2. In the second chain from your hook make a single crochet.
3. Then skip two stitches and make a double crochet.
4. Make four more double crochets in the same stitch (in total that stitch will have five double crochets).
5. Skip two stitches and make a single crochet.
6. Then skip two stitches and make five double crochets in the same stitch.
7. Skip two stitches and make a single crochet.
8. Repeat until the end of the row: skip two stitches, make five double crochets in the same stitch, skip two stitches, make a single crochet.
9. When you reach the end of the row, skip two stitches and make a single crochet in the last stitch.
10. Then chain three (it counts as a double crochet).
Row 2
11. Turn your work around. You will work in the very first stitch.
12. So, make two double crochets in the very first stitch.
13. Then skip two stitches and make a single crochet (in the third double crochet out of five in the previous row).
14. Skip two stitches and make five double crochets in the same stitch (in the single crochet of the previous row).
15. Then skip two stitches and make a single crochet.
16. Work in the same way until the end of the row.
17. At the end of the row skip two stitches and make three double crochets in the last stitch.
18. Chain one.
Row 3
19. Turn your work around. You will work in the first stitch.
20. So, make a single crochet in the first stitch.
21. Skip two stitches and make five double crochets in the same stitch (in the single crochet of the previous row).
22. Then work as usual: skip two stitches and make a single crochet.
23. At the end of the row you will have to make a single crochet in the turning chain three of the previous row.
24. So, make a single crochet in the turning chain. For the rest of the pattern repeat rows 2 and 3.
Finished solid shell crochet stitch
25. Done!
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