The Camel Stitch, also known as the Knurl Stitch, is a unique crochet technique that gives a knit-like appearance to the final product. This simple yet distinctive stitch is performed using a unique adaptation of the typical half-double crochet (hdc) method. The key difference lies in working into the third loop of the stitch rather than the top two loops. This results in a beautiful textured pattern that adds depth and style to any crochet project. Whether it's a cozy winter scarf, a charming kitchen dishcloth, or a comfy blanket, the Camel stitch adds a touch of flair with its neat, knit-like texture.
Camel Crochet Stitch Tutorial
Materials Needed:
- Yarn
- Crochet hook
- Tapestry needle (for demonstration in this tutorial)
Make a Slip Knot: Begin with a slip knot on your hook.
Chain Any Number: You can start with any number of chains; it can be odd or even, as it does not impact this stitch. For the tutorial's purpose, 25 chains were started with but adjusted according to your project needs.
Row 1:
Start the First Row: Work into the second chain from the hook.
Half Double Crochet: Make one half double crochet (hdc) in that second chain.
Continue Across: Make one hdc in each chain across until you reach the end of your chain.
Row 2:
Chain 1 and Turn: Always start the row with chain 1 and turn your work. The chain 1 does not count as a stitch.
Identify the Third Loop: Normally, stitches are worked under the top two loops of a stitch. However, for the camel stitch, you will work into the third loop found on the side that’s facing you.
First Stitch of the Row: Insert your hook into the third loop (the front loop that’s facing you) and make a hdc.
Continue Across: Work one hdc in the third loop of each stitch across the row.
Row 3:
Chain 1 and Turn: This is consistent with every row start.
Working on the Wrong Side: Now that you're working from the wrong side, the third loop you need to work into is located at the back of the work.
First Stitch Difficulty: The initial stitch might be trickier to perform from this side; you may need to turn your work towards you to easily access the third loop.
Continue the Pattern: Make one hdc in the third loop of each stitch, all the way across.
Repeating Rows:
Alternate Rows 2 and 3: For the rest of your project, you will alternate between the instructions for rows 2 and 3.
Row 2 will always work the third loop facing you (when you have the wrong side facing you).
Row 3 will work on the third loop located at the back (when you're working from the right side of the work, that'll turn towards you).
Final Look:
Right Side: You will observe nice knit-looking ridges.
Wrong Side: Appears somewhat flat compared to the ridged right side.
This tutorial aims to help you achieve a neat, knit-like texture in your crocheting projects using camel stitch, which is great for projects like scarves, hats, dishcloths, and even blankets.
Leave a Reply