Crochet Basics: Crocodile Stitch

Looking for a snappy new stitch to liven up your crochet? Crocodile stitch is a crochet stitch that looks like reptile scales, fish scales, or even bird feathers. Its unique texture comes from working a row of foundation double crochet stitches followed by double crochet stitches that form the scales. The stitches aren't difficult, but they are different because you work with your crochet turned in different directions. Once you make a few scales, it feels natural. This stitch's frilled look makes it ideal for fantasy items inspired by dragons and mermaids, but it's even fun for textured pillow covers, sweater yokes, blankets, scarfs, and bags! Learn this eye-catching crochet stitch that adds an interesting scale-like texture!

Instructions

Step 1

Chain a multiple of 6 + 3 chain stitches. For this example, the chain is 33 stitches. The 3 chains form the first double crochet. Double crochet into the third chain from the hook.

*Chain 2 and skip 2 chains. Work 2 double crochets in the next chain. Repeat from * to the end of the row. You should end with a set of two double crochets. These pairs of double crochets and chain spaces form the foundation for the first row of crocodile stitch scales. The next step is to work the scales onto the double crochet "posts" from this row.

Step 2

Pivot the foundation row so the top is now on your right. Chain 3. This counts as the first double crochet. Work four double crochet stitches on the first post of the foundation row.

Step 3

Pivot the foundation row, so the top is now on your left. Chain 1. Work 5 double crochet stitches on the second post of the foundation row.

Step 4

Pivot the foundation row, so the top is now on your right.

Chain 1. Skip the next set of posts, which is partially obscured by the first scale. Work five double crochet stitches on the first double crochet of the next set of posts.

Chain 1. Pivot the foundation row. Work five double crochet stitches on the second double crochet of this set of posts.

Repeat this process across the row, working a crocodile stitch scale on every other set of posts.

Step 5

When you complete the first row of scales, work the next foundation row of double crochet posts and chain stitch spaces.

Chain 3. This counts as the first double crochet. Double crochet into the center of the last crocodile stitch scale.

Step 6

*Chain 2.

Work two double crochets between the two crocodile stitch scales, working between the two double crochet posts from the first foundation row.

Chain 2.

Work two double crochets into the center of the next crocodile stitch scale.

Repeat from * to the end of the row.

Step 7

To stagger the scale stitches in this row, work each scale on the set of posts between the scales from the first row. Pivot the foundation row, so the top is now on your right.

*Chain 1. Skip the first set of double crochet posts. Work five double crochet stitches on the first double crochet of the next set of posts.

Chain 1. Pivot the foundation row. Work five double crochet stitches on the second double crochet of this set of posts.

Repeat this process across the row, working a crocodile stitch scale on every other set of posts.

Step 8

At the end of the row, you should have a set of double crochet posts. Slip stitch between the two posts.

Chain 3. This counts as the first double crochet. Double crochet between the two posts from the previous row.

Chain 2. Work two double crochets into the center of the next crocodile stitch scale.

Continue working across the row. This forms the next foundation row, which is the same as the first foundation row.

Continue adding rows of foundation double crochet posts and rows of crocodile stitch scales. This is technically a four-row repeat, but it results in two rows of crocodile stitch. You can work every row in the same color or switch colors every set of foundation and scale rows. To block crocodile stitch, steam or spray the piece and press the scales into place. If you want to wet block your work, pin each scale so they hold in shape.

Crocodile Stitch Crochet Tips

Here are some tips that will help you as you learn how to crochet crocodile stitch:

1) The bottom of the crocodile stitch should point down towards your foundation row. If it doesn't, you've worked it upside down.

2) Some people find that it's easier to crochet the post stitches if they turn the work in different directions to get the best angle for the stitch. You will have to play around and find the right way of turning for you.

3) Use a yarn and crochet hook that you are very comfortable with. A basic acrylic worsted weight yarn and a size G or H hook are ideal for beginners.

Happy crocheting!