Easy Alternate Single Crochet Stitch Tutorial

The Alternate Single Crochet Stitch is a unique and versatile crochet technique that offers a fresh twist on the classic single crochet. Characterized by its dense and firm fabric, this stitch is perfect for crafting a wide range of durable and practical items. Its intriguing texture is achieved by alternating between traditional single crochets and spiked stitches, which dive into the fabric's previous rows for an appealing visual and tactile contrast.

Alternate Single Crochet Stitch Tutorial

This makes the Alternate Single Crochet Stitch an excellent choice for projects that require sturdiness and depth, such as pot holders, rugs, place mats, and bags. Not only does this stitch enhance the aesthetic appeal of crocheted items, but it also lends them an added layer of durability, making it a popular choice among crocheters looking to add sophistication and functionality to their creations.

Foundation Chain

1. Start with a slip knot on your hook.
2. Chain any even number (e.g., 12, 14, 16, …).
3. For the demonstration, 32 chains are made.

Row 1: Single Crochet Base

1. Work a row of single crochets starting from the second chain from the hook.
2. Continue with single crochet into every chain to the end of the row.
3. The skipped chain at the beginning will count as a single crochet.

Row 2: Alternate Spike Stitch Pattern Begins

1. Chain 1 and turn your work, this chain will count as a single crochet.
2. Skip the first stitch because the turning chain acts as your first single crochet.
3. Work a single crochet into the next stitch.
4. To create a spiked single crochet, insert the hook into a stitch from the row below instead of the single crochet from the previous row.
5. Stretch the loop to the height of your regular single crochets.
6. Yarn over and complete the single crochet.
7. Alternate between one regular single crochet and one spiked single crochet until the end of the row.
8. End the row with a regular single crochet worked into the skipped chain from the beginning of the previous row.

Subsequent Rows

1. Repeat Row 2 for the pattern:
   • Chain 1 and turn, with the chain counting as the first single crochet.
   • Skip the first stitch because of the turning chain.
   • Work a single crochet into the next stitch.
   • Create a spiked single crochet into the next stitch by inserting the hook into the row below the next single crochet.
   • Continue alternating between a regular single crochet and a spiked single crochet to the end.
   • Finish the row with a regular single crochet in the turning chain from the previous row.

Finishing the Pattern

• Continue repeating the instructions from the previous section for the desired length of your project, maintaining the alternate pattern of spiked stitches to create the dense and firm fabric.