My friends, meet the crab stitch, also known as the Reverse Single Crochet.
Whether you can this stitch the reverse single crochet stitch or the crab stitch, it is a fun stitch to learn that adds a decorative touch to any project. I love to use it on the edge of a basket or hat brim.
This stitch is one of those stitches that is easy, but seems tricky. I took these photos years ago when I was selling patterns under a different name. I actually follow my OWN instructions and photos when I work the crab stitch if I forget how to work it. Here it is, step by step!
How to Work a Reverse Single Crochet Stitch
As you may have guessed, a reverse single crochet is worked the OPPOSITE direction from a “normal” single crochet. So you normally work crochet from right to left. A crab stitch (reverse single crochet) is worked from left to right.
Step 1:
Ch 1, working from left to right, *insert crochet hook into the next sc. Turn hook to the left side, grab yarn and pull through.
Step 2:
There are now 2 loops on the hook. Draw up a loop, bring yarn over the hook again and draw this loop through both loops on hook.
Step 3:
Crab stitch complete. Repeat steps one and two, working a stitch into each stitch around work.
And there you go: The Reverse Single Crochet… or if you prefer you can call it the Crab Stitch. An easy stitch that looks amazing and is now easy to learn!
Ahh! The Reverse Single! I love this stitch for finishing a project (scarf, hat, baby blanket). It makes a nice edge with a finished, polished look. I have used this many many times. I’ll admit, it was a bit awkward trying to go backward at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s quite simple.
It is perfect for edgings! Love it on hats!
I LOVE this stitch. I think it looks great when edging things like hats or headbands. HOWEVER, my struggle is when I have to finish a row on a round. How do you finish a round with a crab stitch? Ive kind of made up with a way, but it just doesn’t look very smooth. Do you know where you “slip stitch” into?
I cut it off, pull the strand up then wrap it around the first stitch from back to front and then back again and then weave in the end.
I have always had trouble with the reverse single crochet, thank you so much d=for the simple version.
I am so glad it helped!