How to Crochet Shell Edging is the first in a series of 4 tutorials I am writing about different crochet edgings. If you hang around to the end of the series, there will be a free pdf printable of these edgings plus 2 more!

Edgings can be used to decorate all kinds of things, from baby blankets to headbands to crocheted bags. They can be even be added to things that are not crocheted, like hand towels and tea towels as a pretty trim. Heavier weight yarn will give a chunky effect. For something lighter and lacier, you could use embroidery thread and a tiny hook.

Shell edging, also known as scalloped edging is one of my favourites! It looks lovely and it’s very easy to do.

How to Crochet Shell Edging

Please be aware that being British I have used British crocheting terms!

The edge that you are adding the shells to will need to have a number of stitches divisible by 3.

1. Make 1 chain, then skip the chain and the next 2 stitches.

2. Into the third stitch, crochet 5 trebles.

3. Skip the next 2 stitches. Into the third stitch, make 1 double crochet.

4. Skip the next 2 stitches. Into the third stitch, crochet 5 trebles.

As you can see, the 5 trebles into 1 stitch is what makes the shell pattern.

5. Skip the next 2 stitches, then into the third stitch make 1 double crochet.

Keep going in this way until you get to the end or, if you are crocheting in the round, back to the start.

Instead of a double crochet into the last stitch, slip stitch. If you are crocheting in the round, slip stitch into the first chain of the round.

I used shell edging on this little bowl to pretty it up! The tutorial for the bowl can be found here.

How do you like to use crocheted edgings?