Expert: Bea Harrell - 1/29/2007

Question
I am looking for simple step by step instructions on how to make the crochet knurl stitch.Also known as crab stitch, reverse single crochet stitch.I have a Fishermans crochet afghan pattern I would love to make, but the inst. aren't clear. photos would be helpful.  I found a video on a site, but couldn't see how she was doing the stitch, her hands were in the way, and couldn't understand what she was saying, your help is appreciated.  Thanks so much

Answer
Hey, Linda! I found this cool instruction for rev sc, and I think this will work for you. You should book mark this site, too, as it's great for beginners needing help with stitches.
Reverse Single Crochet (Crab stitch, Corded Edge)



Please click on pictures to see a larger image

This is just working a single crochet stitch from left to right, instead of right to left.

I usually use this stitch as a border when I just want a finished edge, but do not need anything fancy. It works well for projects intended for men because it's not frilly.

After completing a row of single crochet, do not turn the work around, chain one, *insert the hook into the next stitch to the right (not in the stitch you just completed, but the next one, draw up a loop. Here's how you do that - You just angle your hook down and grab that sucker and pull it through. yo as normal and pull through both loops on the hook. rep from * across row.

When you get to the corner, you can make more than one stitch if you want to, or if this is the only round you're going to do and you want a rounded edge, go ahead and put just one in there. It's up to you. Follow the same rules you'd follow for a regular single crochet as to working along the sides. If your rows are worked in single crochet, work one rsc in each row. If your rows are worked in double crochet, then work two in one row and so on. You can fudge if you need to in order to keep your work flat. The finished product is what matters.

I had some trouble getting pictures because it's a difficult stitch to manage with one hand. LOL But here's what I came up with. Step by step, more or less.


insert hook



grab yarn with a sort of upside down scooping motion (I know -very technical)

pull yarn through (2 loops on hook), yo and draw through both loops




insert hook in next sc

scoop up yarn and pull through, two loops on hook,



yo and pull through both loops


 .

The above pic shows the corner, in which I placed ONE reverse sc, then began bordering the side. In this particular piece the rows were single crochet, so I placed one reverse sc in each row. Oh yeah, you're wondering why this one is pink? Well *blush* that's what happens when you take pictures without a flash. LOL And because I'm secure enough to let you laugh at me, I didn't bother to try and match the purple in my paint program. Hee hee. Or maybe lazy is a better word.

Yay, you did it! Now what good is a reward you don't have to work for. Here's what I want you to do. Go to one of those specialty candy shops - yes, you can look online - and find Kits. I like the Peanut Butter best, with Strawberry and Chocolate as most honorable mention, but you'll probably only be able to get a variety pack. :-) Yum. If you can't find it, you are not a true candy connoisseur. *grin*

You may have to visit the site to see the pics, as I'm not sure they were included!
Address is: www.crochetcabana.com
Just click on the 'stitches' link at the top of the page.
I hope this will be of help to you.
Good Luck!  Bea