Mastering the Herringbone Crochet Stitch

Published on January 29, 2021 by Sylwia (MyCrochetory) | Stitch & Technique Tutorials

 

Are you ready to elevate your crochet projects with a unique and captivating texture? Look no further than the herringbone crochet stitch! This beautiful and richly textured stitch is a fantastic way to add depth and visual interest to any crocheted item. While it might require a little concentration at first, the stunning zig-zag pattern it creates is well worth the effort. It’s a fantastic stitch for intermediate crocheters looking to expand their skills, and even determined beginners will find it rewarding.

Imagine the elegant drape of a scarf, the cozy feel of a blanket, or the chic look of a cowl, all adorned with the distinctive pattern of the herringbone. Unlike basic stitches, the herringbone crochet stitch utilizes a unique method of working single crochet stitches to achieve its amazing chevron effect. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to master this delightful technique, complete with step-by-step photo instructions and a video tutorial.

Why Learn the Herringbone Crochet Stitch?

  • Unique Texture: Creates a beautiful, dense, and slightly raised zig-zag pattern.
  • Versatility: Perfect for a wide range of projects, from garments to home decor.
  • Skill Building: Challenges your crochet skills and helps you understand stitch mechanics better.
  • Professional Finish: Gives your projects a polished and intricate look.

Getting Started: What You’ll Need

To begin your journey with the herringbone crochet stitch, you’ll need a few basic supplies:

  • Yarn: Worsted weight yarn is recommended for this stitch, as it beautifully showcases the texture. However, feel free to experiment with other yarn weights once you’ve got the hang of it.
  • Crochet Hook: A 5.5 mm (I-9) crochet hook is generally suitable for worsted weight yarn. Remember, hook size can be adjusted based on your yarn choice and desired tension.
  • Scissors & Yarn Needle: For finishing your project.

The beauty of the herringbone lies in working specifically into the front or back of your work, creating that iconic slanted pattern. Practice with worsted weight yarn initially to get the best feel for the stitch’s unique flow.

Herringbone Crochet Stitch Tutorial: Step-by-Step

This stitch is a two-row repeat, making it surprisingly easy to memorize once you’ve completed a few rows. For a visual guide, please check the original video tutorial on MyCrochetory.com.

Foundation Chain

Start with any number of stitches (chains). If you’re new to this, you might want to review how to crochet a chain for beginners.

Row 1: Right Side (Herringbone Single Crochet)

  1. Work a regular single crochet in the 2nd chain from the hook, working into the back bump of the chain for a clean edge.
  2. For the next stitch, insert your hook into the left leg of the single crochet stitch you just made.
  3. Now, insert the hook into the back bump of the next chain. Yarn over and pull up a loop (you should have three loops on your hook).
  4. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on the hook. This completes your first herringbone single crochet stitch.
  5. Continue working in this manner to the end of the row: first, insert your hook into the left leg of the previous stitch, then insert the hook into the back bump of the next chain. Pull up a loop, yarn over, and pull through all three loops on the hook.
  6. Turn your work.

Row 2: Wrong Side

  1. Chain 1 (this is a turning chain and does not count as a stitch).
  2. Work a single crochet in the first stitch, inserting your hook from the back to the front.
  3. To work the next stitch, insert the hook into the left strand of the previous stitch (from right to left).
  4. Then, insert the hook into the next stitch, working from back to front. Yarn over, pull up a loop (three loops on hook).
  5. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook.
  6. Work in the same manner to the end of the row.
  7. Turn your work.

Row 3: Right Side

This row is similar to Row 1, but you’ll be working into existing stitches.

  1. Chain 1 (turning chain, does not count as a stitch).
  2. Work a single crochet in the first stitch, inserting your hook from the front to the back.
  3. To work the next stitch, insert the hook into the left strand of the previous stitch (from right to left).
  4. Then, insert the hook into the next stitch, working from front to back. Yarn over, pull up a loop (three loops on hook).
  5. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook.
  6. Work in the same manner to the end of the row.
  7. Turn your work.

To continue your project, simply repeat Rows 2 and 3 until you reach your desired length. You’ll notice the distinct appearance of the right side (RS) and wrong side (WS) of your fabric, both beautiful in their own way.

Project Ideas Featuring the Herringbone Crochet Stitch

Once you’ve mastered the herringbone crochet stitch, a world of beautiful projects opens up! Its dense and warm fabric makes it ideal for cozy accessories and home decor.

Shawls & Wraps

The herringbone stitch creates a gorgeous drape. Consider trying the Diana Herringbone Shawl pattern for a stunning accessory.

Headbands & Cowls

Keep warm in style! A Twisted Herringbone Crochet Headband or a cozy Herringbone Crochet Cowl would be perfect for this stitch.

Hats

The Siri Herringbone Hat (or similar free herringbone crochet hat pattern) showcases the stitch’s texture beautifully.

Blankets & Pillows

For larger projects, the texture of the herringbone stitch truly shines, creating a luxurious feel. You might also enjoy other patterns like the Carina Crochet Square Pillow or the Tonnta Colorful Crochet Blanket which, while not herringbone, demonstrate the beauty of textured blankets.

Expand Your Crochet Horizon: More Stitch Tutorials

If you enjoyed learning the herringbone crochet stitch, you’re on a great path to becoming a versatile crocheter! Explore other captivating textures and techniques with these tutorials from MyCrochetory:



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