Create Crochet V-stitches and Crochet Shell Stitches

Crochet shell stitches and crochet v-stitches, you have probably read about them in the stitch guides and seen them in some of your favorite crochet patterns. But what are they, and how are they different from each other?

Both crochet shell stitches and crochet v-stitches are comprised of the basic stitches of crochet, usually double crouch and chain stitches. They’re easy!

First, let’s take a look at V-stitches. In the Interweave Crochet Summer 2019 issue you will find plenty of v-stitches. The Floral Filet Ruana, Shadow Purple Top, and Dusty Plum Dress, all use v-stitches to create crochet fabric that’s perfect for summer garments. The v-stitch name may not be inventive, but it is the perfect description for this crochet stitch. A crochet v-stitch looks like a V. While you may see some variations on the method of creating v-stitches, they are usually created by working a double crochet, chain, double crochet in the same stitch. It’s as simple as that.

If you look at your V-stitch, you will see that it does indeed look like a V. The v-stitch used in the Dusty Plum Dress uses one chain between double crochet stitches while the Shadow Purple Top uses two chains between double crochet stitches for a more pronounced V. While the stitches can vary some, a crocheted v-stitch will always create a pronounced V shape and have only one stitch on either side of the chain stitches.

Crochet Shell stitches have even more variety, but they are just as easy. Interweave Crochet Summer 2019 features the shell stitch in the Gentian Hat and Plumeria Shawl. Shell stitches are created by working multiple tall stitches, such as double crochet stitches, into a single stitch. This creates a stitch that looks like a scallop shell. The shell stitch used in the Plumeria Shawl is created by working five double crochet stitches in the same stitch. You will notice that the shell stitch has more than two tall stitches. I have seen shell stitches where multiple tall stitches are each separated by a chain stitch. You still achieve this scalloped shell-like appearance.

Now that you understand v-stitches and shell stitches, let’s look at the Goldenrod Wrap. This gorgeous crochet wrap uses a stitch called the shell v-stitch. This stitch combines the characteristics of both stitches, working a shell of three treble crochet stitches, chaining three, and working a second shell to create a stitch that has the distinctive V shape. I love the creativity of crochet!

Ready to try crochet v-stitch and shell stitches! You will love these stitches and the patterns in the Interweave Crochet Summer 2019 issue. Get yours today!

Happy crocheting,
Toni

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