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Crochet Crab Stitch: tutorial

Looking for a way to finish the edges of your handmade project? You are in the right place because in this post you will learn one of the most popular finishing techniques among crocheters: the Crab Stitch!

The Crab Stitch is nothing more than a variation of the Single Crochet (UK Double Crochet), but with a twist: it is made going backwards! When working in Crab Stitch, the crochet hook moves in the opposite direction compared to the traditional work. For this reason, it is also known as “Reverse Single Crochet” and is easy to learn and make, even for beginners.

With this technique, you get a compact and defined decorative edge, perfect to finish the edges of tops, sweaters, cardigans, but also blankets, scarves, bags, and so many more projects.

 

Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges

For the swatch you see in the picture, we used:

    • Beechwood crochet hook, size 5 mm (US H8) – you can choose the right hook size adjusting to your yarn and tension
    • Bettaknit’s Prato Cotton yarn (100% Recycled cotton) in the colors Lilac and Salmon

FOR THIS TUTORIAL, YOU MIGHT NEED:

Crochet Crab Stitch: techniques used

    • Chain stitch
    • Single Crochet

Check out the videotutorials section on Bettaknit’s website to practice your crochet stitches and much more 😉

How to work the Crochet Crab Stitch

You can choose to work a Crab Stitch edge using the same color as your project or a contrasting color to make it stand out more!

    • Find the spot where you want to start creating the edge.
    • Insert the tip of the hook, catch the yarn and pull out a loop, then block it with a chain stitch.
Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges

    • **Move the tip of the hook to the right (if you’re left-handed, move it to the left) along the edge, and insert it into the previous stitch. Pass the hook under both loops of the stitch below as if working a Single Crochet.
    • Hook the yarn and pull out a loop. You have 2 loops on the hook.

Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges

    • Complete the stitch like a normal Single Crochet: wrap the yarn around the hook and pass it through both loops.**

Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges

Repeat from ** to ** across the entire edge, always going backwards.

If you are creating a Crab Stitch edge around a panel with corners (for example, a square or rectangular panel), at some point you will need to rotate the work to continue, so remember:

    • To go around corners or protruding stitches, work 1 or more chain stitches, then continue working in Crab Stitch inserting the hook into the next space.
    • Along vertical edges (i.e., the lateral edges of the project), insert the crochet hook in the space corresponding to each row.

Crochet Crab Stitch: tips for a perfect edge

    • Use high-quality yarn: a good yarn will definitely make a difference in the final result.
    • Check your tension: keeping a consistent tension will make a more even edge. Take your time and try to always make the same movements and apply the same strength on the yarn.
    • Try new color combinations and different fibers: the result will always be perfect and clean, whether you are working with cotton, wool, or other fibers like jute and raffia!

Maui Bag, made with Raffia, is finished using the Crab Stitch along the top edges!

Maui Bag
Crochet Crab Stitch, easy crochet stitch tutorial for edges

With the Crochet Crab Stitch, you can add a professional and original touch to your handmade garments and accessories!

If you enjoyed this tutorial, keep exploring the crochet world and check out our little collection of 3 crochet stitches that are perfect for bags!

Share your creations on Instagram using the hashtag #bettaknit and tagging @bettaknit. We can’t wait to see you use the Crab Stitch in your next project!

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