Learn How to Crochet the Prairie Stitch

a swatch of the crochet prairie stitch in mustard coloured yarn

Hello yarn lovers! If you’re looking to learn a beautiful new stitch that’s perfect for blankets or scarves, you’re going to love the Prairie Stitch. This one is such a simple two-row repeat, and it creates a lovely soft texture that looks beautiful on both sides. It’s one of those stitches that’s easy to learn, fun to work up, and gives a gorgeous, slightly rustic look — perfect for cosy makes.

The Prairie Stitch is worked using basic stitches, so it’s ideal if you’re still building your crochet skills. Once you get into the rhythm of it, you’ll find it’s wonderfully relaxing to crochet. In this post, I’ll talk you through what makes this stitch so lovely, what you’ll need, and exactly how to crochet the Prairie Stitch step by step.

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Why I Love the Prairie Stitch

The texture of the Prairie Stitch is what really makes it shine. It has a soft, semi solid look created by alternating rows of single crochet and half double crochet clusters. The front and back of the stitch look slightly different, but both sides are equally pretty, which makes it perfect for projects like blankets, scarves, and even cosy wraps where both sides will be visible.

Because it’s a simple two-row repeat, it’s really easy to remember and perfect for sessions in front of the TV watching your favourite show, or while listening to your favourite podcast or audio book.

Is It Beginner Friendly?

Yes! If you can chain, single crochet, and half double crochet, you can absolutely master this stitch. The Prairie Stitch is one of those patterns that looks more complex than it really is. Once you’ve learned how to crochet the Prairie Stitch, you’ll find it’s a great go-to texture for a huge range of projects.

Shopping List!

You don't need anything fancy for a practice swatch, you probably already have everything in your yarn kit. If you are just getting started, Amazon is a great place to shop for everything you need at reasonable prices.

Yarn: Any yarn you like (I used an aran weight yarn for the sample).
Hook: The hook size recommended on the yarn ball band is a good place to start.
Scissors
Yarn needle

You can use any yarn and hook you like — just follow the recommended hook size on your yarn ball band. Smooth yarns work best to really show off the texture.

How to Crochet the Prairie Stitch

This stitch is made with a simple foundation of single crochet stitches, followed by rows of half double crochet clusters separated by skipped stitches. You’ll then alternate between single crochet rows and cluster rows to create that lovely raised, textured pattern.

It’s a very simple two-row repeat, which means once you’ve done a couple of rows, you’ll easily remember what comes next. The finished fabric has a soft texture that’s just beautiful.

Prairie Stitch Video Tutorial

If you’d like to see the process in action, you can watch my full how to crochet the Prairie Stitch video tutorial right here. I’ll guide you through each step, from starting your chain to finishing your project, so you can crochet along with me.

Pin it!

a pinterest pin showing a crochet swatch of the prairie stitch

Abbreviations US terms (UK terms)

ch – chain

sc – single crochet (double crochet)

hdc – half double crochet (half treble crochet)

st – stitch

sk - skip

Notes:

Ch1 at the start of the row does not count as a stitch.

The Prairie Stitch

Chain any even number to start

Row 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. Turn.

Row 2 ch1, hdc in 1st st, [sk1, 2hdc in next st] repeat across. Turn.

Row 3 ch1, sc in 1st st and each st across. Turn.

Rows 2 & 3 form pattern repeat until desired length.

Final Thoughts

The Prairie Stitch is such a versatile, easy-to-remember pattern that you’ll want to use again and again. It’s perfect for cosy blankets, scarves, or even dishcloths — anything that needs a bit of texture and warmth. Once you’ve learned how to crochet the Prairie Stitch, you’ll find it becomes one of your favourite go-to stitches for simple, relaxing crochet projects.

If you enjoy learning new stitches, don’t forget to check out my Stitch Library here on the blog or visit my Stitch Tutorial Playlist on YouTube for more inspiration.

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