5 Double Crochet Shell

Published:Mon, 09/22/2025 - 05:23

The 5 Double Crochet (DC) Shell Stitch is a classic, decorative crochet stitch that forms charming, fan-shaped shell motifs across your fabric. It’s a versatile stitch perfect for blankets, scarves, shawls, and decorative home projects.

This stitch is beginner-friendly, as it uses only basic crochet techniques like double crochet and single crochet, but creates a professional-looking, textured pattern. The 5 DC shell is slightly smaller than the 6 DC version, offering a tighter, more delicate fan motif.

Download PDF Stitch Tutorial

Beginner’s Guide to the 5 Double Crochet Shell Stitch in Crochet

Understanding the 5 Double Crochet Shell Stitch

The 5 DC Shell Stitch is made by working five double crochets into a single stitch or space, forming a fan or shell motif. Shells are separated by single crochets or chain spaces to define each fan, creating a repeating scalloped pattern across the fabric.

This stitch is ideal for projects that benefit from texture and visual interest without adding bulk. It works beautifully with solid colors, variegated yarn, or alternating stripes to highlight the shell motif.

Abbreviation

US - 5 Double Crochet Shell : 5dcsh
UK - 5 treble crochet shell : 5trsh
AFR- 5 Langbeentjie Skulp: 5lb-skulp

Crochet Stitch Method

1. Work 5 dc into same stitch/space.
2. Skip pattern-specified sts, repeat.

Crochet Stitch - Step by Step

Step-by-Step Instructions (US Terms)

Foundation Row:
Chain a multiple of 6 + 1 (for example, 25 chains).

Row 1:

Skip the first chain (counts as turning chain).
Work 5 DC into the 2nd chain from the hook, this forms the first shell.
Skip 1 chain, then work 1 SC into the next chain to separate shells.
Work 5 DC into the next chain, skip 1 chain, 1 SC into the next chain, repeat across the row.
End with 5 DC in the last chain if desired.
Turn.

Row 2:

Chain 3 (counts as first DC).
Work 5 DC into the center SC of the previous row’s shell group.
Separate shells with SC in the center of the next shell as before.
Repeat across the row.
Turn.

Repeat Row 2 for the desired project length. Staggering the shells creates a layered, scalloped effect.

UK Equivalent

In UK crochet terms:

US Double Crochet (DC) → UK Treble (TR)
US Single Crochet (SC) → UK Double Crochet (DC)

The pattern remains the same; only the stitch names differ. The fan-shaped shell effect is identical.

Crochet Stitch Practice Example

Practice Swatch Exercise

1. Chain 25 (multiple of 6 + 1).
2. Work Row 1 (5 DC shell + SC separator) across the row.
3. Work Row 2 into the center of previous shells for 4–6 rows.
4. Observe the shells forming staggered, fan-like rows.
5. Adjust tension and spacing for perfectly even shells.

The 5 Double Crochet Shell Stitch is a versatile and visually appealing crochet stitch that adds elegance to any project. Beginners can easily learn this stitch while creating beautiful, textured fabric suitable for blankets, scarves, garments, and home décor. With practice, this stitch becomes a go-to choice for creating classic, decorative crochet patterns.

Crochet Patterns Using This Stitch

Looking for more ways to use this crochet stitch? Explore these crochet patterns featuring the stitch in practical and creative projects. From crochet bags and handbags to blankets, accessories and home décor, these patterns are a great way to practise the stitch while creating something useful and beautiful.

Whether you’re a beginner learning a new stitch or an experienced crocheter looking for your next project, these patterns offer plenty of inspiration for your crochet hook and yarn.