How to Crochet Ripple Stitch

The simple stitch is perfect for scarf, shawls and afghans

Crochet Ripple Stitich

 Debbie Wolfe

Project Overview
  • Total Time: 1 hr
  • Skill Level: Beginner

The crochet ripple stitch, also known as the chevron stitch, is a basic that’s used for afghans, scarves and everything in between. In crochet, a “ripple stitch” is any stitch pattern with peaks and valleys. Increases and decreases are used to accomplish the ripple effect.

There are several ways to accomplish the ripple stitch. This simple version will produce a smooth look with very little holes or gaps. Some versions have larger holes for a lace-like look. This stitch is perfect for an intermediate crocheters. You will have to know how to decrease stitches in order to make the ripple stitch.

You can use any yarn of any color and weight. It particularly looks great in sweeping colorways or with gradient yarn. This amazing pattern is achieved with just three simple stitches! It's such a simple pattern that you will have it memorized in no time. It's the perfect pattern for crocheting while binge-watching TV.

Stitch Abbreviations:

  • CH-Chain
  • DC-Double crochet
  • DC2TOG-Double crochet two together

Pattern

Multiple of 12 and plus 3.

Row 1: DC in 4th chain from hook (first three chains count as a DC.) *DC in each of the next 3 CH, DC2TOG twice, DC in each of the next 3 CH, 2 DC in next CH twice, repeat from * across to the last CH , 2 DC into that last CH .

Row 2: CH 3, DC in that next stitch, * DC in each of the next 3 stitches, 2DCTOG twice, DC in each of the next 3 stitches, 2 DC in the next stitch twice, repeat from * across to the last chain, 2 DC into the top of the CH 3 turning chain from the previous row.

A ball of blue yarn and a crochet hook.
Debbie Wolfe

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

  • Crochet hook in your preferred size

Materials

  • Yarn

Instructions

  1. Foundation Row Part 1

    Start the pattern with a foundation chain of 15 ( or whatever multiple of 12 plus 3 stitches you wish.) DC in 4th chain from hook (first three chains counts as a DC.) DC in each of the next 3 CH.

    Crochet ripple stitch
    Debbie Wolfe
  2. Foundation Row Part 2

    DC2TOG in the next two stitches.

    Crochet ripple stitch
    Debbie Wolfe
  3. Foundation Row Part 3

    This creates the first peak in the ripple stitch.

    Crochet ripple stitch
    Debbie Wolfe
  4. Foundation Row Part 4

    DC in each of the next 3 chain stitches.

    Crochet Ripple stitch
    Debbie Wolfe
  5. First Wave Complete

    2 DC in next CH twice. This completes the first wave.

    Crochet Ripple Stitch
    Debbie Wolfe
  6. Continue the Pattern

    Repeat the stitch pattern across to the last CH. 2 DC into that last CH.

    Crochet Ripple Stitch
    Debbie Wolfe
  7. The Second Row

     CH 3, DC in that next stitch. DC in each of the next 3 stitches.

    Crochet Ripple Stitch
    Debbie Wolfe
  8. Repeat the Pattern

    Continue in the pattern: 2DCTOG twice, DC in each of the next 3 stitches, 2 DC in the next stitch twice, then repeat to the last chain, 2 DC into the top of the CH 3 turning chain from the previous row.

    Crochet Ripple Stitch
    Debbie Wolfe
  9. Continue the Pattern Until Desired Size is Achieved

    Repeat the pattern until it reaches the size you desire. 

    Crochet ripple stitch
    Debbie Wolfe

Tips for Ripple Stitch

If you wish to change color, do so at the turning chain. Try using self-striping yarn to eliminate the need to switch yarn colors. Once you get to your desired size, lightly block the piece to make the pattern really pop. Try the crochet ripple stitch in your next scarf, shawl, or afghan project.

A crochet ripple stitch swatch
Debbie Wolfe