Crocodile Stitch Crochet Tutorial
How to Crochet the Crocodile Stitch: 18 Crocodile Stitch Patterns
Learn how to work the crochet crocodile stitch with this video and photo tutorial. Also known as the scale stitch, this crochet stitch is not only beautiful but it can turn your entire project into an art piece.
Crocodile stitch crochet patterns are great to add a bit of flair to your style. This look is modern, yet chic and can give the look of sophistication. Any crocodile stitch pattern will give your crochet design just the right amount of texture and will fancy up any crochet bag or even a simple crochet scarf.
If you're stuck on how to work this amazing scale stitch, watch and learn from the video tutorial below on how to crochet the crocodile stitch. Be sure to keep reading beyond the tutorial for some stunning crocodile patterns.
Before you even get started crocheting, there are a number of different things you should learn including how to go aboutCrochet Hook Sizes: Choosing the Right Hook Size
How to Work the Crocodile Stitch
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Begin with a slip knot, then ch multiples of 5 + 1. (The number of chains is determined by the type of project you're making, so your project might specify something different)
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Turn and, working into the back loops, dc in 2nd ch from hook. Ch 1, *sk 2 ch, 2 dc into next st*. Rep from * to * across row. - crocodile scales will be made over the double set of stitches, not the lone dc, one post at a time.
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Turn, sc at base of ch. Working around back of first post (not both of the posts, just the first one), 5 dc around the same post. Your stitches will stack on top of each other.
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Rotate your work to go back up the other side and to finish your scale - working around the second post right next to the one you were just working with, fp stitch from the bottom of the stitch up to the top and work in 5 dc. One scale complete.
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Sc into the top of the single post (right next to the set of two you've been working with) to hold everything you just did in place, and then continue working across the row.
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Once you complete your row of scales, you need to set up another foundation row before you begin your next set of scales: ch 1 at the end of your scale row, turn, sc into the base of the ch you just made. Sc into the middle of the scale, 2 dc into the top ch in between scales. Continue across row in that way, paying attention to what's on the front - scale or space.
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When you reach the end of the row, ch 1, turn and work across, making scales.
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Continue working pattern, alternating between foundation rows and scale rows as shown.
Top Crocodile Stitch Patterns
You can add the crocodile crochet stitch to any type of project you want to give it a ruffled edge. As you're working through the projects below, if you find yourself struggling, don't fret! New crochet stitches are so fun to learn, but what's the best way to do it? Watching crochet video tutorials is a great way to learn and practice a new stitch, but remember that everyone out there has their own way of working up a crochet stitch.
If you're following along and still find yourself confused by what you're watching, feel free to seek out another crochet method or step-by-step photos. What works for one person might not work for you, or you might come across a much easier way of working a crochet stitch that's a combination of different methods. Just don't give up! Certain stitches, like the crocodile stitch here, might seem way more confusing, but just keep practicing and check out multiple tutorials if you need to.
Read NextHow To Crochet The Moss Stitch
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Sandi C
Jan 10, 2017
I'm so excited to have found this tutorial as I've been struggling with making a mermaid tail blanket for my daughter. I am a beginner at crochet and found the directions in the pattern a bit difficult to understand. I started over using the shell stitch but I'm unhappy with the result. Has anyone used this crocodile stitch to make a mermaid tail blanket and would you recommend doing so?
annabrazer64
Jan 10, 2017
I am making the Sweet Princess Cocoon-ghan and have all of my crock rows... I am having a hard time reading the 12th row... can someone please help me
marilyncsm82 26452 11
Dec 06, 2016
perfect tutorial. I was having trouble understanding how the crocodile stitch works. this helped a lot! many thanks!
faradaygrean
Apr 05, 2015
Thank you for posting the crocodile stitch! I've been wanting to use this for a project. Now that I've started I find some of the 'scales' don't lie flat and as they curl the holes are visible. Is it because of my material (acrylic) or the tightness of my stitches (I try to keep the firmness consistent) or is this just something that will be fixed in blocking?
elizabeachy 177889 3
Mar 03, 2014
I have watched your vids and like them, this is the first time on All Free Crochet, and was happy to see you here, Thank you for all your teachings. :)
joancarnell 497471 4
Sep 13, 2013
I am so pleased to have found your tutorial!! I have a gorgeous pattern for baby shoes with a crocodile stitch but the instructions are not clear and I was beginning to despair of ever making them properly. Your detailed instructions and clear video have given me fresh enthusiasm. thank you
katiegirl88617
Jul 22, 2013
Very nice tutorial. Easy to understand. I had a few questions though. What happens to the work if you do not chain one at the bottom of the scale? Also, would it not help keep the work more solid if instead of chain one at the top, you slip stitch into the unused space? Then when doing a foundation row you needn't worry about getting the scale portion on the hook. Thank you!
dcmolumby 5384722
May 03, 2013
I love the tutorials. Mike is very clear with his instructions and very easy to follow. He goes into just enough detail to remember how to do what he is teaching. Mike is a very good teacher! I think I can now do the stitch without any problems and can't wait to use the yarn he demonstrated with. I have had it for some time and did not have any idea what to do with it.
joycekarchner 1137 778
Feb 15, 2013
Oh My this is awesome...I was so afraid of this stitch...and if I was trying to learn it by just reading the instructions I don't think I would have ever got it. But your tutorial was easy to follow, and I could stop and start as I needed. and I got it! I have already started a scarf, and I can't wait to experiment with other projects...Thank you so much Mikey you are my hero!
marytillen02 28973 96
Feb 13, 2013
Awsome tutorial!! Mikey has a very calm voice and great instructions, thanks!!
nancygroth 9384274
Feb 10, 2013
Very good tutorial. I love the texture. A very good play off the shell stitch.
silverpromidi 6432 886
Jan 25, 2013
Michael, thank you SO MUCH for making this EASY to learn and remember. I tired one other tutorial, but yours is SO much Better. Thanks again
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