Learn how to crochet the linen stitch. Step-by-step directions and video tutorial to help you learn how to master the linen stitch. The texture of the linen stitch is woven and compact, but still very pliable. This simple pattern consists of single crochet and the chain stitch. It is a perfect crochet stitch for a beginner.
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Video Tutorial Near Bottom of Post
Hint: when completing the stitches used in this pattern, make sure to keep the chain one stitch the same size as the single crochet. This will ensure an even look throughout your beautiful project.
Uses for the Linen Stitch
I love making things using the linen stitch. Once I get the foundation row completed, I get into the rhythm of the pattern and I don’t really have to pay much attention to what I am doing. I can watch a television show with my family and have my crochet therapy at the same time. This linen stitch would be great for so many things. Once you learn how to crochet the linen stitch, your world will open to new possibilities. Here are some ideas:
- Dish Towel
- Hand Towel
- Baby Blanket
- Cowl
- Scarf
- Lap Afghan
- Pillow Covering
- Face Cloth
- Rug (make sure to use non-skid mat underneath for safety)
Free Pattern
As a bonus to learning the linen stitch, Here is a free pattern for you to make as you learn the stitch. Make this beautiful baby blanket. This is an easy pattern to get started using the linen stitch.
Written Directions: How to Crochet the Linen Stitch
Materials:
Size H crochet hook
2 Skeins Red Heart Soft White yarn approximately 728 yards
1 Skein Red Heart Minty yarn approximately 364 yards
Abbreviations:
CH = Chain
SC = Single Crochet
SP = Space
ST = Stitch
Size:
The baby blanket finished size is approximately 30″ long and 26″ wide. Note, if you use a different yarn or different crochet hook, you may get a slightly different finished size.
The * means that you should repeat all instructions between the *
Varying the Size:
To make the blanker longer or narrower, increase or decrease by 2 stitches. This afghan uses even stitches. To make this longer or shorter, simply increase or decrease the number of rows. However, to keep the symmetrical look of the afghan, be sure to count out the rows and whatever you do on one end, you should repeat on the other end.
Starting a New Skein:
When starting a new skein, begin using the skein at the start of the row for best results.
Use an even number of stitches to increase or decrease the width of the pattern.
Directions
Begin:
Chain 126
Row 1:
SC into 4th CH from hook, *Ch 1, Skip 1 CH, SC in next SP. Repeat from * to last CH where you end with a SC, turn.
Row 2:
CH 2, SC in first CH-1 SP in previous row (Note: not in the stitch itself, but in the space that was created by the CH. To do this, insert your hook in the space, yarn over and pull through the yarn and complete your SC), *CH 1, Skip 1 ST, SC in next SP. Repeat from * to last CH where you end with a SC, turn.
Row 3 and beyond:
continue working Row 2 until your desired length.
In the baby blanket that I made, I did a total of 140 rows.
Here is how I made each color section
White = 20 rows
Teal = 20 rows
White = 20 rows
Teal = 20 rows
White = 20 rows
Teal = 20 rows
White = 20 rows
Linen Stitch Baby Blanket
Here is another view of the finished linen stitch baby blanket. You can see how lovely it drapes. While the linen stitch creates a closely stitched blanket, it is still pliable and has a very nice feel to it.
Changing Colors
While this stitch looks beautiful in one color as the stitch ads a lot of texture to the crochet project, you can change colors quite easily too. Here is a photo tutorial on how to change colors in the linen stitch.
In the photos below, you will see that the new color is added by adding the yarn with the hook in the last two loops on the hook. Yarn over with the new color and pull through both loops on your hook. Then continue on with the linen stitch.
Securing the Yarn Tails
I would recommend securing the yarn tails by crocheting over them. This is a two-step process.
- Hold the yarn in front of the stitches of the previous row and when you insert your hook into the CH 1 SP, make sure to include the two strands of yarn. This secures the yarn under the SC. I do this for about 6 inches of the yarn tail, then I stop incorporating them and continue on with the linen stitch. See the photo tutorials below.
Adding new color and crocheting over the tails.
2. Notice below how the yarn tails in the pictures on the left are quite visible? After you have completed the row after the color change and are on the return row. It is time to pick up the yarn into the stitches of this row. If this was not done, the yarn would be very visible as it is on the left. Therefore, when making your SC, pick up the two strands of yarn again as you work along the row. It looks neat on the right with the yarn tails tucked up nicely into the stitches.
I have put brackets around the areas to help you see the areas.
Here is another photo to help you see the difference.
Here is one more closeup picture of the stitches. Notice that you are not able to tell where I changed colors?
Video Tutorial on How to Crochet the Linen Stitch
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You can find Victoria crocheting, quilting, and creating recipes. She has worked in restaurants for many years. Her many crochet patterns and quilt patterns are enjoyed by many. In her professional career, she has worked in management in a wide variety of businesses including higher education as a dean of a division. All the while attending college part-time to achieve her doctorate in higher education with an emphasis in e-learning.