6 Double Crochet Shell
The 6 Double Crochet (DC) Shell Stitch is a classic and decorative crochet stitch that forms beautiful, fan-like shell motifs across your fabric. Its elegant, scalloped design makes it perfect for blankets, scarves, shawls, and home décor projects.
Despite its fancy appearance, the shell stitch is easy to learn and is a great way for beginners to practice working multiple double crochets into a single stitch or space. The 6 DC shell, in particular, creates a larger, more pronounced fan shape that stands out beautifully in your projects.
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Beginner’s Guide to the 6 Double Crochet Shell Stitch in Crochet
Understanding the 6 Double Crochet Shell Stitch
The 6 DC Shell Stitch is made by working six double crochets into a single stitch or space, creating a fan or shell motif. These shells are separated by single crochets or chain spaces to define each shell, creating a repeating, scalloped pattern.
This stitch produces a flexible and textured fabric that is ideal for decorative items. It also works well with solid, variegated, or ombré yarns, as the shells highlight color transitions beautifully.
Abbreviation
- US - 6 Double Crochet Shell : 6dcsh
- UK - 6 treble crochet shell : 6trsh
- AFR- 6 Langbeentjie Skulp: 6lb-skulp
Crochet Stitch Method
1. Work 6 dc into same stitch/space.
2. Skip pattern-specified sts, repeat.
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Step by Step
Step-by-Step Instructions (US Terms)
Foundation Row:
Chain a multiple of 7 + 1 (for example, 22 chains).
Row 1:
- Skip the first chain (counts as turning chain).
- Work 6 DC into the 2nd chain from the hook, this forms the first shell.
- Skip 1–2 chains (depending on your pattern), then work 1 SC into the next chain to separate shells.
- Work 6 DC into the next chain, skip 1–2 chains, 1 SC into the next chain, repeat across the row.
- End with 6 DC in the last chain if desired.
- Turn.
Row 2:
- Chain 3 (counts as first DC).
- Work 6 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.
Continue repeating Row 2 for the desired project length. This staggered placement of shells creates a beautiful layered effect.
UK Equivalent
In UK terms:
US Double Crochet (DC) → UK Treble (TR)
US Single Crochet (SC) → UK Double Crochet (DC)
So the 6 DC Shell becomes 6 TR into a single stitch, separated by DCs as in the US pattern. The visual effect remains the same.
Beginner Tips
- Work shells evenly, consistent stitch height ensures fan-like shells.
- Mark the center stitch of each shell for the next row to keep shells aligned.
- Use a medium-weight yarn to make the shell texture pop.
- Maintain even tension, too tight and shells flatten; too loose and they spread.
- Experiment with colors, alternating shell rows in different colors enhances the pattern.
Common Mistakes
- Skipping stitches accidentally, misaligns shells.
- Inconsistent DC height, shells may look uneven.
- Not placing SC separators correctly, shells can merge together.
- Crocheting too tightly, shells lose their fan shape.
- Incorrect foundation chain multiples, causes misalignment across the row.
Common Uses
The 6 Double Crochet Shell Stitch is ideal for:
- Blankets and throws, decorative and cozy.
- Scarves and shawls, elegant fan patterns add texture and drape.
- Home décor projects, cushion covers, table runners, and decorative panels.
- Garments, light cardigans or summer tops benefit from the scalloped design.
- Afghan panels or patchwork, shells provide a standout motif among other stitches.
Crochet Stitch Practice Example
Practice Swatch Exercise
1. Chain 22 (multiple of 7 + 1).
2. Work Row 1 (6 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 6 Double Crochet Shell Stitch is a versatile and visually appealing crochet stitch that adds elegance to any project. With just a few basic stitches and consistent placement, beginners can create professional-looking, textured fabric suitable for blankets, scarves, home décor, and more. Once mastered, this stitch becomes a favorite for decorative and layered crochet designs.
How to work the 6 Double Crochet Shell Flower Pattern
This pattern is worked in two rows, the first is a row of V-stitches , the second is a row of 6dc (double crochet) row.
Take note of the direction in which you are working the 6dc-shell and also take note of the skipped stitches in the pattern diagram and the written instructions, of your project.
The first row of V- Stitches
Take note of skipped stitches in the pattern diagram and the written instructions, of your project.
- Join a new color with a slip stitch, ch3, count as the first 1dc st,
- skip the first stitch,
- 1 x V-Stitch, (1dc, ch1, 1dc), into next stitch,
- * skip 2st(s), V-Stitch, (1dc, ch1, 1dc), into next stitch,
- repeat from * until the last stitch of the row, skip the second last stitch, and work 1 dc into the last stitch.
Second row of dc-shells
- Join a new color with a slip stitch, ch3, count as the first 1dc st,
- *1sc into first 1ch-sp of first V-stitch from the row before,
- 6dc-shell into next 1ch-space ,
- repeat from * until the last 1chain-space of the V-stitch of the row before, working 1dc into the last stitch.
Take note of the direction in which you are working the 6dc-shell, sometimes 1 sc is worked into the 1ch-sp, then followed by the 6 dc-shell in the next ch-sp, other times the 6 dc shell is worked first then followed by the 1sc into another next chain space. If you wish to work on a pattern that has shell stitches be sure to stick to uneven tows, to keep your work straight, also take note of the skipped stitches in the pattern diagram and the written instructions, of your project.
FAQs About the 6 Double Crochet Shell Stitch
What is the 6 Double Crochet Shell Stitch?
It’s a decorative stitch made by working six double crochets into a single stitch or space to form a fan or shell motif.
Is the 6 DC Shell Stitch good for beginners?
Yes! It uses basic stitches and repetition, making it approachable for beginners ready to practice stitch placement and tension.
What projects suit the 6 DC Shell Stitch?
Blankets, throws, scarves, shawls, cushion covers, garments, and decorative panels.
Can I use different yarns or colors?
Yes! The shells look great in solid colors or variegated yarns. Alternating colors between rows enhances the pattern.
Is this stitch reversible?
It is slightly more textured on the front, but the back is still attractive for most projects.
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