30+ Stunning Crochet Stitches

Crochet Stitches are really the key to any great project.  Find a gorgeous crochet stitch pattern and and you are well on your way to an amazing afghan, pillow or sweater!  Here are some of my favorite crochet stitches that inspire my projects!

If you’re searching for a crochet stitch, you likely have a project in mind. Often I find myself thinking first of the project (like “I want to make an afghan”) and the next thing on my list is to find the perfect crochet stitch for it.

Sometimes I’m looking for what I like to call a “mindless make”. Something like my Bespoke Bliss afghan that I can easily memorize that is enjoyable to crochet while I relax in the evenings. Other times I’m looking for something that is a bit more intricate like my Blueberry Bead Stitch Beanie.

Other times, I work the other way around; I see a pretty stitch pattern and I think “what can I make with this?” I just love the little thrill I get inside when I plan out a crochet project. Maybe you love that too!

This collection of crochet stitches is meant to inspire your creative journey. I’ve made step by step tutorials for many of the stitches. But others are from other designers that are on my ‘someday’ list. I hope you find a stitch here to inspire your creative heart.

Most of the stitches use American crochet terms and many feature step by step instructions and a photo tutorial to help you master techniques.

Let’s dive in.

Types of Crochet Stitches

I like to divide the topic of crochet stitches into two groups:

• Common Crochet Stitches or Basic Crochet Stitches
• Stitch combinations

Basic Crochet Stitches

While most of you are probably here to get crochet stitch inspiration for your next project, some of you might be wondering about the basic crochet stitches. These stitches are the building block to all crochet and once you master these basics and learn how to read a crochet pattern, you’ll be able to navigate your way around most patterns.

There are six basic crochet stitches that form the foundation for almost any crochet project you wish to make. These stitches are the chain stitch, the slip stitch, the single crochet, the half double crochet, the double crochet, and the treble crochet. Each stitch adds height to the fabric and allows for the creation of different textures and designs.

Learning these basic stitches is essential for anyone who wants to crochet, as they are used frequently in patterns. With practice, a crocheter can create beautiful and intricate designs using only these six stitches and using them in combinations create even more stitch patterns.

Chain Stitch

The chain stitch, abbreviated as ch, is the foundation stitch of crochet. It is used to create a base chain that serves as the starting point for most crochet projects worked back and forth in rows. To make a chain stitch, yarn over the hook and pull through the loop on the hook. This process is repeated to create a chain of desired length.

Slip Stitch

The slip stitch, abbreviated as sl st, is the shortest of all crochet stitches. It is used to join rounds, create edges, and add texture to the fabric. To make a slip stitch, the hook is inserted into the stitch, yarn is pulled through the stitch and the loop on the hook.

Single Crochet

The single crochet, abbreviated as sc, is a basic stitch that is used to create tight, dense fabric. It is often used in amigurumi and other projects that require a sturdy fabric. To make a single crochet, insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull through the stitch. Two loops will be on your hook. Yarn over again and then pull through both loops on the hook. Check out my complete tutorial on how do you single crochet here.

Half Double Crochet

The half double crochet crochet stitch, abbreviated as hdc, is a stitch that is taller than a single crochet stitch but shorter than a double crochet stitch. It creates a fabric that is slightly looser than the single crochet but not as open as the double crochet.

To make a half double crochet, yarn over, then insert the hook into the stitch. Yarn over again and then pull through. Three loops will be on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through all loops on the hook.

Double Crochet

The double crochet stitch, abbreviated as dc, is a stitch that is taller than the half double crochet. It creates a fabric that is more open and lacy than the half double crochet. To make a double crochet, yarn over, then insert the hook into the stitch. Yarn over again and then pull through. Three loops will be on your hook. Yarn over and pull through 2 loops on the hook. This leaves 2 loops on the hook. Then yarn over one more time and pull through the remaining 2 loops.

Treble Crochet

The treble crochet, abbreviated as tr, is the tallest of all the basic crochet stitches. It creates a fabric that is very open and lacy. To make a treble crochet, the yarn is looped over the hook twice, then insert the hook into the stitch. Yarn over and pull through 2 loops. Yarn over and pull through 2 loops again. Finally, yarn over and pull through the final 2 loops. You can see a treble stitch crochet tutorial here.

Overall, these six basic crochet stitches are the foundation for many crochet projects. By mastering these stitches, a crocheter can create a wide variety of fabrics and textures.

Crochet Stitch Combinations

Stitch combinations use those familiar crochet stitches in different ways. There are endless ways to combine and work crochet stitches to make different stitch patterns.

For instance, you can work in a stitch, around a stitch or even work in a stitch in a prior row. You can combine stitches of different heights into the same row such as working a single crochet stitch or a double crochet stitch in various combinations.

Did you know that I have a free printable Stitch Dictionary? As I post tutorials for stitch combinations, I am adding them to my Stitch Dictionary. You can read how to set up your own amazing Stitch Dictionary Binder right here.

Of course some of the beautiful stitch patterns in this post are from other designers. I can’t wait to share them with you here!

Beautiful Crochet Stitches

The Mixed Cluster crochet stitch by Daisy Farm Crafts would be gorgeous in a baby afghan.  I love how a fun yarn and a beautiful crochet stitch combine in this perfect make.

The Harlequin Stitch by Daisy Farm Crafts reminds me of Kings, Queens, Castles and adventures. This cool crochet stitch pattern mainly uses the double crochet stitch and the single crochet stitch. A great stitch for a warm and cozy scrap blanket!

I love how an easy combination of double crochet stitches, single crochet stitches and post crochet stitches can make for amazing texture!  I combined these 2 simple crochet stitches in my Onward and Upward scrap afghan for this fan favorite.

Perfect blending of scrap yarn that doesn’t always suit for other projects plus the stitch combination makes for a very warm blanket! This is an afghan that will be used time and time again!

I love the puff stitch look of this braided crochet stitch by Crochet Beja.This decorative stitch would make a great placement, table runner, bath mat. Or even a small coaster or a cute bag. Gorgeous!

This Tulip Stitch Crochet Pattern features one of my favorite stitch combinations of all time, the Crochet Tulip Stitch and it uses the easy double crochet stitch, chain stitch and single crochet stitch!

This crochet stitch pattern naturally forms a scallop border on the edge making it a great stitch for blankets. Mindless crochet with 2 skeins of affordable Ombre yarn for an easy baby blanket? Yup.. count me in!

Here’s another crochet stitch with a beautiful scallop edge.  Check out this Iris Stitch by the Unraveled Mitten. It reminds me a bit of a double V stitch.

The Larksfoot Stitch is one of my favorite crochet stitches. It uses mostly a double crochet and a long double crochet (which is just about where you insert the hook for a normal double crochet stitch). I love how this fun crochet stitch design makes for a perfect scrap afghan.  The free crochet pattern, Happy Lark Scrap Afghan, in jewel tones speaks to my soul!

This slight variation of the Alpine Stitch by Bellacococrochet is beautiful. Note that this crochet stitch tutorial is in UK terms. You can find a conversion chart for US to UK Crochet terms here.  The Alpine Stitch uses post stitches which makes it perfect for a warm and cozy blanket, a winter hat or even a fun and functional crochet bag!

If you’re looking for fun and fast, this crochet rope stitch (also called the V-stitch) might be your new favorite!  This basic crochet V-stitch is perfect for a lacy vibe v-stitch blanket or amazing shawl.  

My friend Jessica over at Stitching Together used a variation of the Diamond Lattice stitch to make this sweet Diamond Lace Blanket for her little boy. This pattern is made with basic crochet stitches in worsted weight yarn, but it would also be lovely in a bulky yarn too.

The Arrow Stitch by the Crochet Crowd is one that makes me just want to reach right through the photo and give that bit of crochet goodness a big ole squishy squeeze! Sigh. All that spectacular texture and I love the contrast between the taller crochet stitches against the background stitches! I think I’d use this for a warm cozy blanket or even a throw pillow.

The texture in this Even Moss Stitch Crochet sample makes me swoon!  It works up great as a crochet washcloth pattern but this beautiful fabric would also make a wonderful coaster or even a baby blanket!

The Sedge Stitch makes an easy crochet baby afghan. Can you say mindless crochet while binging your favorite series on TV?  LOVE that!  The Sedge Crochet Stitch would also look great in a large afghan, scarf or throw pillow. It also would be a good choice for washcloths too!

Oh why oh why is there a stitch called the waffle stitch? Now I’m ready for breakfast. Again. Sigh. What a fun stitch! The waffle stitch may look like an advanced crochet stitch, but it really uses a very basic stitch with the focus on placement of the stitch. Here’s a great crochet waffle stitch tutorial by Heart Hook Home .

Soft Moss Stitch, how I love thee! This fantastic stitch technique is perfect for a mindless crochet afghan or dishcloth.  Fast, fun and easy to memorize.  You’ll love this on your hook! Perfect for an all over baby blanket, afghan or a dishcloth. The fun texture is perfect for your next make!

This might be a favorite of all the crochet stitches! I love the tweedy look of the Herringbone Half Double Crochet Stitch. This is one to up your crochet skills a bit. Just a tiny little change to a regular half double crochet and viola.. a Herringbone HDC. I just love the looks of this twist on one of the beginner crochet stitches!

Be sure to check out my Herringbone Hat with this stitch too. So beautiful!

The crocodile crochet stitch always makes me think simultaneously of Peter Pan (ya know his ‘hook’ incident) AND a mermaid. It makes me both want to get IN the water AND stay out! I know. I’m weird.

But this crocodile stitch tutorial by Bhooked Crochet is awesome! Try one of the fanciest crochet stitches for some dragon crochet patterns or on a bag, fingerless gloves or anywhere you want a ‘dragon scale’ look!

This Side Saddle Stitch by Make and Do Crew intrigues me so much.  It reminds me a bit of the vintages stitches my grandmother would use for baby afghans.

I love an easy stitch with a lot of texture like this Silt Stitch. It’s great for a nubby little dishcloth but would also work up great as a single stitch pattern baby afghan or throw. Or even as a stitch for crochet tops! This stitch combo is a good stitch for beginners looking to use those easy basic stitches in a new way.

This bean stitch by Nicki at Nicki’s Homemade Crafts has me thinking all sorts of cozy thoughts.  A fall squishy hat for days you need to keep your head warm, but maybe don’t need the full on winter garb.  

I could also see it in an afghan or scarf too. Just grab a skein of yarn or two and you’re ready to roll!

I love the texture on this Grit Stitch. This is a great textured crochet stitch, perfect for a dishcloth or even a baby blanket! This is another one of those perfect stitches for crochet baby blankets kind a stitch.  Just grab a few skeins of your favorite yarn and bust out an afghan with this fun, textured crochet stitch!  

This Crochet Box Stitch by Crochet News is so intriguing, isn’t it?  I love that tumbling block vibe and how the color diamonds attach to the previous round.  So beautiful! I think I would use this in an afghan. Maybe something with planned color changes to go with my living room even.

The Berry Stitch has been on my ‘to make’ list for far too long.  I really like how Katie at Salty Pearl Crochet has worked it into a fun washcloth.  I love the even bumps which adds so much texture.  And if you’re using it for a crochet dishcloth it would even provide some scrubbing action!

The Balanced Shell stitch by Heather at The Unraveled Mitten is one of my favorites. I love the way the double crochet shells work as a beautiful crochet shell stitch pattern for the main stitch of an afghan, lacy scarf or shawl. But I also love that this basic shell stitch worked as a border would totally perk up a basic stitch afghan that needs a little pizazz.

Oh the Elizabeth Stitch.  I don’t know what I love more… her beautiful NAME or her lovely LOOKS!  This great tutorial by Dabbles and Babbles shows you every detail for making this beautiful stitch.  This would make a gorgeous baby afghan, pillow or crochet bag.

The crochet crunch stitch by Stitching Together has great texture thanks to the strategy placement of the lowly slip stitch and half double crochet stitch!  This is another stitch pattern that’s known by more than one name..but any way you say it, it’s a beauty!  Love that bumpy goodness of this beautiful stitch design.

This crochet rice stitch is totally calling my name.  What is it saying, you ask?  Why it wants to be a dishcloth!  Or maybe a hat.  Or both.  I totally just want to squish it and squeeze it forever.

I don’t know why, but I think the bead stitch might just be the funnest stitch to make.  Maybe ever. I love working AROUND a stitch to make that puffy goodness. So fun!

The Diamond stitch by Hopeful Honey reminds me of a pillow my grandmother had on her sofa. You know the squishy comfortable kind that make you want to stretch right out and take a nap.

This stitch combination might seem like it uses advanced crochet techniques, but it really is just a combination of basic crochet stitches along with a treble crochet stitch placed in a particular way to create the effect.

The Star Stitch is a gorgeous textured stitch that looks complicated, but is actually really easy once you learn how. This is one of those amazing crochet stitches that really speaks to my heart. This would look great in a hat or scarf crochet project.

If you’re a fan of the granny square (and really who isn’t), you’re going to love this Granny Stripe Stitch by Attic 24. Think granny square worked on a foundation chain and in rows.

This fun stitch might be the simplest stitch for a good beginner project and is a favorite stitches for crochet blankets.  It also lends itself well to using up scrap yarn. You know.. if you have some laying around.

Blanket Stitch.  Yes. Seriously.  Someone actually named this crochet stitch the Blanket Stitch! I kinda love that the top edge looks like a bunch of crochet chains in a soft wave! This great tutorial by Mama in a Stitch is going have you thinking all sorts of blanket thoughts.  

Of course some people also call THIS stitch a blanket stitch. I don’t care what you call honestly because it is hands down my favorite ‘mindless make’ crochet stitch and it looks great no matter how you crochet with it.

You can switch colors every other row, use a variegated yarn like I did here in my Bespoke Bliss Scrap Afghan, use a solid color throughout or go crazy with your scrap yarn pile. It is just so fun!

The linen stitch is another stitch with an identity crisis.  You might know it by another name. Me? I know it as the stitch my grandmother used for scrap afghans.  She’d make oodles of squares and when she ran out of yarn, she’d make a square with whatever colors she had—matching or not!  Then she would crochet them all into one amazingly warm bit of goodness.  Love that!

Did this Waistcoat stitch aka the knit stitch by Make and Do Crew fool you into thinking it was NOT crochet?  This little stitch gets its amazing effect by one simple change in where you work a single crochet. Amazing, right?

The Harvest Stitch by Dessert Blossom Crafts is another beautiful textured stitch. really love the beautiful stitch combination of those puff stitches and double crochets!

Do you have a favorite crochet stitch I missed? What is the prettiest crochet stitch? Which cool stitch will you try first? Will you incorporate one into your next crochet pattern? Let me know in the comments!

Explore More Crochet Patterns

Here are some other articles that you may be interested in if you like to crochet:

• Crochet Beach Cover-Up Patterns
• Crochet Shorts Patterns Perfect for Summer
• 20 Crochet Bralette Patterns for Everyday Wear
• Gorgeous Crochet Lace Patterns
• Crochet Potholder Pattern Collection

I’d love to see YOUR favorite crochet stitches and your stitch binder! Share with me on Facebook or tag me on Instagram.