Watch how to crochet the diagonal shell stitch (video & written instructions)

If you want a new slant on an old favorite, then the diagonal shell pattern is for you. Three simple stitches add up to an airy pattern that bulks up in no time.
Rows of shells at jaunty angles ripple across the surface of throws, afghans and even shawls, adding a pretty extra touch that doesn't make the stitch more complicated.
Advertisement
Watch the diagonal shell stitch video:
Materials
As this stitch is quite fancy to look at, a plain DK or light worsted weight yarn works well and allows attention to be focussed on your fine crochet work. You'll need to check your manufacturer's band for hook size suggestions. You'll also need a pair of scissors and a tapestry needle for weaving in your ends.
Abbreviations
* repeat from this point for the number of times required
ch chain stitch
dc double crochet
rep repeat
sc single crochet
sk skip
Advertisement
Written instructions
This pattern is made up of multiples of 8 plus five, so create a foundation chain long enough to suit your project.
Row 1: 1 sc in 9th ch from hook, *ch 5, sk next 3 ch, 1 sc in next ch, rep from * across, turn
Row 2: ch 3, 2 dc in first sc, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, *ch 5, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, 5 dc in next sc, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, rep from * across, finish with ch 5, 1 sc in last ch space, turn.
Row 3: ch 3, 2 dc in first sc, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, * ch 5, 1 sc in middle of dc of next shell, 5 dc in next sc, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, rep from * across to last ch 5 space, ch 5, 1 sc at top of turning ch, turn.
Row 4: ch 6, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, * 5 dc in next sc **, 1 sc in middle of dc of next shell, ch 5, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, rep from * across, finishing last rep at **, 1 sc at top of turning ch, turn.
Row 5: ch 6, 1 sc in middle dc of next shell, * 5 dc in next sc**, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, ch 5, 1 sc in middle dc of next shell, rep from * across, finishing last rep at **, 1 sc in 3rd ch of turning ch, turn.
Row 6: ch 3, 2 dc in first sc, 1 sc in middle dc of next shell, * ch 5, 1 sc in next ch 5 space, 5 dc in next sc, 1 sc in middle dc of next shell, rep from * across finishing with ch 5, 1 sc in 3rd ch of beg ch 6, turn.
Repeat rows 3-6 until you reach your desired length.
Resources