There’s a certain satisfaction in finding a stitch that’s simple to work but looks far more deliberate than the effort it takes. The cross stitch single crochet is exactly that kind of discovery. I first reached for it when I wanted something with a woven, fabric-like density for a market bag and the moment I turned the work and saw that clean crossed texture staring back at me, I knew it would become a regular in my rotation.
Cross Stitch Single Crochet
This stitch creates a thick, structured fabric with a beautiful pattern on the right side that looks almost like a braid moving across the surface. It’s approachable for anyone who’s comfortable with basic single crochet, and it opens up a whole category of projects where texture does the talking.
Materials and Tools
- Any yarn weight (worsted or bulky gives the most visible texture)
- Crochet hook sized to match your yarn
- Scissors
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
No specialty tools needed. The stitch works across all yarn weights — lighter weights give a drapey, refined result; heavier weights produce a dense, structured fabric.
Difficulty and Time
Skill level: Beginner-friendly with basic single crochet experience
Time: Depends entirely on project size; the stitch itself works up quickly once the rhythm clicks
Before You Start — A Few Things Worth Knowing
- The cross stitch single crochet works on a multiple of 2 stitches, so your foundation row should always have an even stitch count.
- You’ll need a base row of stitches before you begin the crossed pattern. The tutorial uses half double crochet for the base row, but any stitch that gives you a solid row to work into is fine.
- Keep your tension relaxed throughout. This stitch involves going back to work into a stitch you’ve already passed, and if your tension is tight, that return stitch becomes difficult to place cleanly. Loose, easy tension is the single most useful habit you can build with this stitch.
- The stitch has a distinct right side and wrong side — the front shows the decorative crossed texture, while the back has a flatter appearance.
Abbreviations used in this pattern:
- ch — chain
- sc — single crochet
- st — stitch
- sts — stitches
The Cross Stitch Single Crochet Pattern
Foundation
Begin with an even number of foundation stitches — this stitch requires a multiple of 2. Work your base row completely before starting the crossed stitch pattern.
Row 1
- Chain 1 and turn your work.
- Skip the first stitch.
- Insert your hook into the second stitch and work 1 sc.
- Go back to the stitch you skipped and work 1 sc into it.
- Your first crossed stitch pair is complete.
Continuing Across the Row
- Skip the next stitch.
- Work 1 sc into the following stitch.
- Go back and work 1 sc into the skipped stitch.
- Repeat this sequence across the entire row.
- If you’re still learning how to read crochet patterns, no stress! Follow the video tutorial below and use the written pattern below as you get more comfortable!
Stitch Repeat (shorthand)
Skip next st, 1 sc in following st, 1 sc in skipped st. Repeat across.
Finishing
Complete the final crossed stitch pair at the end of the row. Fasten off as you normally would for your project, cut the yarn, and weave in all loose ends with your yarn needle.
Tips for Getting It Right
- Always go back for the skipped stitch. It sounds obvious once you know the stitch, but in the early rows it’s easy to get into a rhythm and accidentally skip the return. If your stitch count is dropping, this is almost always why.
- Check your count at the end of every row. The crossed pairs mean your count should still equal your foundation stitch count. A quick count after each row catches mistakes before they compound.
- Work loosely. Tight tension makes the fabric stiff and makes the return stitch awkward to insert. If you naturally crochet tightly, try going up half a hook size.
- Keep the right side facing you if you want consistent texture. When working flat, turning creates a different appearance on alternating rows. To keep the cross texture uniform throughout, you can either work in the round or start a new yarn strand at the beginning of each right-side row rather than turning. Either approach keeps the decorative face consistent.
- Don’t worry about the wrong side. The back of this stitch looks different from the front, and that’s intentional. It’s not a flaw — it’s how the stitch works.
What to Make With It
The cross stitch single crochet produces a thick, sturdy fabric that holds its shape well, which makes it ideal for:
- Scarves and cowls — the texture adds visual interest without requiring color changes
- Bags and totes — the density gives structure without lining
- Blankets — cozy and with a subtle woven quality that reads as handmade but elevated
- Home décor — placemats, pot holders, coasters, basket liners
It’s also an excellent stitch for color work, since the crossed pairs create a clean canvas for two-row stripe patterns.
Yarn Substitution Notes
This stitch works across every weight, but the effect changes meaningfully depending on your choice. Bulky and super bulky yarns make the crosses bold and tactile — great for quick projects and gifts. DK or sport weight brings the texture down to something more refined and drapey. Avoid very splitty yarns if you’re new to the stitch; a smooth, single-ply or tightly plied yarn makes it much easier to insert the hook cleanly into that skipped stitch.
FAQ
Is this stitch suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with basic single crochet. The technique is a simple variation — skip one, work the next, return to the skip — and once you’ve done a few pairs it becomes automatic.
Does the stitch use more yarn than regular single crochet?
Slightly, yes. Because you’re working the same number of stitches but crossing them, the path of the yarn is a little less direct. It’s not dramatically more, but factor in a small extra allowance if you’re working from a limited skein.
Can I use this stitch in the round?
Absolutely, and it may actually look better in the round for many projects. Working in the round keeps the right side consistently facing outward, so the crossed texture stays uniform throughout without any need for yarn restarts.
Why does my stitch count keep dropping?
Almost certainly because you’re missing the return stitch into the skipped stitch. After every pair, make sure you’ve worked two single crochets — one forward, one back. If you end a row short, count back and you’ll find a skipped return somewhere.
Can I substitute the base row for a different stitch?
Yes. The pattern notes half double crochet as the demonstrated base, but single crochet, double crochet, or even a foundation chain with the right hook size all work. Just make sure your base row gives you a stable, even number of stitches to work into.
