How to Crochet the Crab Stitch Edging Free Pattern & Video Tutorial

Last updated: 05 November 2025

Free Pattern & Video Tutorial

One of my favourite things to crochet is blankets.  I just love the whole process from start to finish.  Scouring the internet for ideas of colours, shapes, texture; choosing yarn and making that first long wiggly starting chain, working on the body of the blanket, joining motifs, but my favourite part about blanket making is adding the border.  It's that time when your project is almost finished and you can see exactly how your blanket will look.  I love that feeling of completion you get while adding your final rounds.

If you’re looking for a simple way to give your crochet project a clean, professional finish, the crab stitch edging (also known as the reverse single crochet) is a fantastic choice. This easy border creates a subtle twisted rope effect that looks great on everything from blankets and cushions to bags and garments.

In this tutorial, I’ll show you exactly how to crochet the crab stitch edging.

Why I Love the Crab Stitch

There’s something so satisfying about the crab stitch.  I love using it when I want a border that’s neat but not fussy — it gives such a polished look without adding too much bulk or frill.

It’s especially great for projects that get a lot of use, like washcloths or baby blankets, since it reinforces the edge while still looking pretty and decorative.

What Makes This Stitch Special

The crab stitch is worked exactly like a single crochet, but in reverse — from left to right (for right-handers). That small change creates a twisted cord-like edge that instantly makes your project look professionally finished.

It’s perfect for flattening out edges and works beautifully as a final round after any other border or stitch pattern. You can use it as a subtle finish or make it stand out by working it in a contrasting colour.

Choosing Your Yarn and Hook

The crab stitch edging looks lovely in almost any yarn weight. Use fine cottons for lightweight projects like doilies and coasters, or go with DK or Aran weight yarns for blankets and garments.

If you’re adding it to an existing project, it’s best to use the same hook and yarn you used for the main piece to keep the tension and texture consistent.

Is It Beginner Friendly?

Yes! It might feel a little odd at first since you’re working backwards, but once you get used to it, you’ll find it’s actually very simple. If you can make a single crochet, you can absolutely master the crab stitch.

Take it slow at first, and before long, you’ll be adding this beautiful rope-like edge to everything you make.

Shopping List!

You don’t need anything fancy for this stitch — just your regular crochet supplies. If you’re missing anything, Amazon is a great place to find yarn and tools at reasonable prices.

• Yarn: Any weight you like (I used an Aran weight yarn for the sample)

• Hook: Use the size recommended on your yarn ball band

• Scissors

• Yarn needle

Crab Stitch Edging Video Tutorial

Watch the full tutorial here to see the crab stitch edging step-by-step. I’ll show you exactly how to start, how to keep your stitches even, and how to get around corners neatly.

Free Crochet Crab Stitch Edging Pattern

Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch – chain

sc – single crochet

sl st – slip stitch

st(s) – stitch(es)

sp - space

Special Stitch: Crab Stitch (Reverse Single Crochet)

Insert hook in next stitch to the right (instead of left), yarn over, pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook.

Basic Crab Stitch Edging

Work a round of single crochet around your project first if you don’t already have a neat edge.

Round 1 Sc in each st around and [sc, ch2, sc] in each corner.

Do not turn your work — you’ll be working from left to right.

Round 2 Ch1 sc in same st, [sc in next st to the right] around, in corners sc in each corner sp.

Join with sl st to 1st sc, do this on the under side of your work for a neater finish.  Fasten off, and weave in ends.

That’s it! A beautiful, twisted border that looks clean and professional every time.

Finishing Touches

The crab stitch edging is one of my favourite ways to give a project a clean, finished look. It’s strong, simple, and works with just about any crochet style — modern, classic, or rustic.

It’s especially lovely on blankets, bags, and garments where you want a tidy edge that won’t stretch out. Once you get comfortable with it, you’ll find yourself using it all the time.

Where Can you Use Crab Stitch Edging?

• Blankets works particularly well with ripple blankets.

• Cushions and pillow covers.

• Bags and totes.

• Dishcloths and coasters.

• Cardigans and cuffs.

Looking for more Borders and Edgings?

   

I hope you enjoyed learning how to crochet the crab stitch edging. It’s such a quick and satisfying finish that makes your handmade projects look beautifully complete. If you give it a go, I’d love to see what you make — share your photos on Instagram and tag me @lullabylodge so I can admire your work.

Thanks so much for stopping by...

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