If you love crochet stitches that are simple yet stylish, the Herringbone Crochet Stitch is one you’ll want to add to your collection. This unique stitch creates a subtle diagonal pattern that resembles the classic herringbone weave found in fabric design. The result is a beautifully textured, slightly dense fabric that’s perfect for scarves, blankets, dishcloths, and even cozy garments.
The Herringbone Single Crochet Stitch is a two-row repeat pattern that’s easy to memorize and quick to work up once you get into the rhythm. It produces a fabric that looks intricate but uses only basic crochet techniques making it ideal for both beginners and experienced crocheters who want a fresh stitch to experiment with.
Materials
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Yarn: Works best with 8-ply / DK weight or thicker yarns.
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Hook: Use a size recommended for your chosen yarn.
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Scissors and yarn needle for finishing ends.
💡 Tip: Keep your tension loose — tight stitches can make this pattern tricky to work.
Stitch Notes
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The Herringbone Single Crochet Stitch (HSC) can be worked in rows or in the round.
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When working in the round, join with a slip stitch and turn after each round.
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The turning chain (ch 1) does not count as a stitch.
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The stitch has only one “right side” (RS) — pay attention to which side is facing you as you work.
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Foundation chain: Any number of stitches + 1.
Stitches & Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ch | Chain |
| SC | Single Crochet |
| HSC | Herringbone Single Crochet |
| HSCinc | Two Herringbone Single Crochets in the same stitch |
| St(s) | Stitch(es) |
| Rep | Repeat |
| RS | Right Side Facing |
| WS | Wrong Side Facing |
Basic Written Pattern
Foundation Chain: Ch 11 (sample swatch has 10 stitches).
Row 1 (RS):
Working into the back bumps of the chain, SC in 2nd ch from hook.
HSC in each remaining chain across, turn. (10 stitches)
Row 2 (WS):
Ch 1, SC in 1st stitch, HSC in each stitch to end, turn. (10 stitches)
Row 3 (RS):
Ch 1, SC in 1st stitch, HSC in each stitch to end, turn. (10 stitches)
Repeat Rows 2–3 for the pattern until you reach the desired length.
How to Increase the Herringbone Single Crochet
To increase, simply place two Herringbone Single Crochets (HSCinc) in the same stitch.
Example:
Insert your hook into the left strand of the stitch, then into the same stitch again (instead of the next). Yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook). Yarn over once more and pull through all three loops.
This simple increase allows you to shape your projects perfect for garments, shawls, or projects with angled edges.
Why You’ll Love the Herringbone Stitch
The Herringbone Single Crochet is ideal for projects where you want structure and subtle texture without complicated techniques. It’s reversible, sturdy, and works beautifully with color changes or ombré yarns. Try it for:
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Modern blankets with clean lines
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Washcloths and dishcloths with great texture
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Cozy hats or mittens with a snug fit
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Bags or cushions that need durability and shape
The Herringbone Crochet Stitch is a timeless and versatile pattern that brings a touch of sophistication to even the simplest projects. Its diagonal texture adds elegance, while the simple repetition makes it easy to learn. Once you master this stitch, you’ll find yourself using it again and again for both practical and decorative crochet creations.
At the end of this article, you’ll find a link to the free pattern so you can start experimenting with the Herringbone Stitch and see just how beautiful it looks in your next project.
