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Close up of decorative edging made with reverse single crochet.
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Crab Stitch Crochet Instructions

The reverse single crochet stitch is also known as crab stitch, it is a simple decorative stitch you can use to finish your crochet projects.
Course: Easy
Author: Harriet

Materials

Yarn

  • Any yarn

Hook

  • Hook size suited to the yarn you are using.

Pattern Notes

Instructions

  • A reverse single crochet stitch is started at the end of a row without turning the crochet from the last round made and is worked backward by making stitches to the right of the crochet hook and back along the previous row made.
  • Step 1 - Before making the first reverse single crochet in a new row, start the row with chain 1, or make a loose starting loop (the loop on the hook) by gently pulling the yarn through the last stitch and then proceed as follows:
    To make the first stitch insert the hook into the next stitch to the right of the hook.
    Then turn the hook at the back of the work to grab the yarn and pull the yarn back through the stitch, but don't draw it through the loop on the hook.
  • Step 2 - You will have two loops on the hook. Yarn over the hook again and draw it through both loops on the hook.
  • Step 3 - You have just made one crab stitch. To make the next crab stitch repeat the steps above.
  • In summary treat the reverse single crochet stitch in the same way as a regular single crochet stitch, except you are working into the stitches on the right side of the hook and not the left.
  • How do you finish a crab stitch border?
    To finish a crab stitch border that is worked on a flat piece, just cut the yarn pull it through the stitch, and fasten off like you would any other stitch.
    If you reverse single crochet in the round when you have made your last stitch, slip stitch back into the first stitch, then cut the yarn pull it through the stitch, and fasten off.
    Is reverse single crochet the same as left-handed single crochet?
    Crab stitch is not the same as left-handed single crochet, but they may be used similarly, depending on your dominant hand and crochet preferences.