Welcome crocheter to the how to crochet the Chunky Crochet Shell Stitch Tutorial! This is a beautiful stitch that I cannot wait to learn with you and I am excited for Claire to share this crochet stitch tutorial with you as well as show you some of her beautiful yarn and crochet hooks you can get to work on your projects! :) I can’t wait to see what you make using this tutorial!! After the crochet stitch tutorial there is a list of crochet patterns, you can go to when you want to make something using your new found knowledge of the Chunky Crochet Shell Stitch as well as the previous crochet stitch tutorials also found here.

How to Crochet the Chunky Crochet Shell Stitch Tutorial

Originally published 15 May 2020 - Updated 16 January 2022

By Claire of King and Eye’s Co.

How To Crochet Shell Stitch

Shell stitch is a popular stitch often used to add a decorative edge to afghan or blanket projects. There are so many types of shell stitch it really is so easy to build a pretty fabric which can be tight enough for washcloths or loose and lacey for summer sweaters it’s definitely one to learn early on in your crochet journey. 

In today’s tutorial I’m going to talk you through instructions for the most commonly used double crochet shell stitch then show you some variations so you can learn to add beauty to any of your projects.

What Do I Need To Crochet Shell Stitch?

This stitch can look so different depending on the size of yarn you choose, whether you use a small hook for a dense fabric or a large hook to create a loose lacey effect, or even how many stitches you incorporate into your shell.

Once you get the hang of the pattern repeat you will be able to play around with different tools, yarns and variations to add all sorts of finishes to your projects.

For beginners I generally recommend a chunky yarn which allows you to see the structure of your stitch (which also makes it easier to work out where to go back to if something has gone wrong!)

A bamboo or wooden hook is useful as it is adds just a touch more friction so the yarn ‘sticks’ better and allows you to work at your own pace without it slipping off and unravelling.

As with most craft projects you’ll also need some small scissors and a needle for weaving in your ends (sorry we ALL hate it but it’s got be done!)

How Do You Crochet A Shell Stitch?

Shells are one of the most frequently used decorative crochet stitches and do you know why?

Because the variations are endless and they’re SO EASY.

The most common and basic shell stitches are created by working several double crochet stitches into one stitch space to create a fan shape, this is then anchored with a single crochet and the pattern is repeated – told you it was easy!

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For the basic 5 DC Shell stitch we are going to work in groups of 6 stitches.

Step 1:

To start, create a chain of 30+1.

Step 2:

Row 1: We are now going to create a foundation row so our project has a straight edge, Chain 1, turn and single crochet along your chain.

Step 3:

Row 2: Chain 1, turn your work and single crochet into the first stitch.

Skip 2 stitches

Yarn over and work 5 double crochet all into the next stitch (the 3rd in your block of six)

Step 4: 

Skip 2 stitches again then work a single crochet into the next stitch (this is the start of your second block of six stitches and your second shell)

Step 5:

Repeat your 6 stitch block of *Single Crochet, Skip2, 5 Double Crochet,Skip2* until you reach the end of the row. (In Crochet Abbreviations this is SC, SK2, 5DC, SK2)

Step 6:

Row 3 is worked in a very similar way but we want the base of our shell to sit in the space between the domes of the shells below. This sounds complicated but actually all we need to do is to create half a shell at each end of our row.

Start by chaining 3 (this will count as your first DC), work 2 more DC into the same stitch to create your half shell, 

Step 7:

Skip 2 stitches then anchor your half shell with a SC (this should line up with the top of the shell below).

Step 8:

Skip 2 stitches then 5DC into the SC below. 

Step 9:

Skip 2 stitches again then SC to anchor your first full shell.

Step 10:

Now you can carry on with your 6 stitch block from the previous row (*SC, SK2,5DC,SK2*) until you get to the last few stitches.

Step 11:

When you get to the end of the row we need to create a half shell again to ensure our edges are straight and we don’t add additional stitches!  

 To do this we simply work 3DC into the last stitch.

Step 12:

Now we can repeat row 2 and 3 to create a really pretty fabric!
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Crochet Shell Stitch Variations

Now you’ve mastered the basic 5DC shell stitch why not give one of these variations a go?

We talked earlier about adding extra dimension to your projects by varying the size of yarn or changing the tension with a different sized hook.

Here are some other ideas you could try:

3 Double Crochet Shell Stitch
Start by chaining in groups of 4, create your foundation row of SC then work * SC, SK1, 3DC, SK1, * Repeat. (Don’t forget to add a half shell at the start and end of each odd numbered row)

7 Double Crochet Shell Stitch
Alternatively you could increase the size of your shells to 7DC, which would add more of a 3d effect.

Varied Height Crochet Shell Stitch
You can also work different height stitches into your shells to create more drama ( you know I love a dramatic pattern!)

If you’re feeling adventurous try working a SC, 1HDC, 1DC, 1HDC, 1SC into your basic 6 stitch block that we practised earlier. This is a great way to add more space and create a fabric with more drape.

How To Add Crochet Shell Stitch Border to Edging

If you have a project that needs a little embellishment then shell stitch is definitely your friend.

It is easy to work the patterns above into the edge of your project by picking up stitches and working row 2 only to create a scalloped edge.

Alternatively, if you prefer more of a wave to the edge you could try something similar to the Varied Height shell stitch above.  Try working 1SC, 1HDC, 1DC,1 HDC, 1SC into consecutive stitches along the edge of your blanket or cardigan which will give you a more structured finish.

As you can see, once you’ve mastered the idea (and the math!!) the possibilities are endless.

I’d love to know which variations you try and if you come up with any new ones for me to try too – make sure you tag me on social media @kingandeye.co.uk so I can see what you’re creating!

 If you like this, you may like:

• Ultimate List of Yarn Dyers

• Ultimate List of Crochet Hooks on Etsy

• Step-by-Step Blocking Handmade Tutorial

Here is also a how to crochet Chunky Crochet Shell Stitch using your left hand, so you can make these patterns as well if you are left handed.

Note - This post contains affiliate links, which means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you, should you click through and make a purchase. However, I do not make recommendations for products or websites that I have not or will not use. Etsy and Bluprint are both places that I have purchased patterns and other crochet items and will continue to. Etsy is also an amazing way to support all of these makers that you find highlighted here and in other posts throughout the VAMICreations website.

Here are a number of patterns that use the above stitch so you can practice and make some of your first crochet pieces!!!

If you have arthritis or issues with your hands here are some extra tutorials and tips specifically designed with you in mind. :)

The Arthritis Foundation has an article with specific tips for knitting, crocheting, and cross stitching with arthritic hands. They have specific tips for each craft on things you can do to help make manage your arthritis while still allowing you to enjoy the craft you love.

Every Day Health has an article all about how to knit/crochet with Arthritis with 10 tips for how to keep crocheting/knitting. They even encourage you to crochet and craft with Arthritis because it can actually help you with managing it.

All Free Crochet has a full Crochet and Arthritis Tip Guide for those that have arthritis or issues with their hands complete with information about how to help your hands each time you crochet or craft and tips on how to adjust for your craft based on whether you have a good day or a bad day.

You can also find ergonomic crochet hooks (recommended for those with hand pain to ease it and allow you to crochet longer or at all) among the amazing crochet hook shops of Etsy in an earlier round up of crochet hooks.

YouTube has several videos where people have discussed tips that have helped them with crocheting or knitting with Arthritis or other health issues that cause your hands and body to be stiff.

Jen B discusses how she crochets in this 3 minute video and shows you how to best hold the yarn and more.

Motion Works Blog has an article on tips for crocheting and using your hands despite having arthritis and also gives several stretches that you can do to help your hands while crocheting or crafting.

Laughing Hens has an article specifically about stretches (complete with pictures!) that are great for both crocheters and knitters. I think I’ll start doing these too to help my hands when I’m working on a variety of projects!

Thank you for joining us for this how to crochet Chunky Crochet Shell Stitch Tutorial! What crochet stitches are you wanting to learn how to crochet? I’d also love to hear from you about what types of resources you want more information on as well as Makers you would like to nominate for a Maker Feature! Please email me or leave a comment on this article! Looking forward to hearing from you and have a great day!