When I hear cross stitch I think of intricate embroidery, like I watched my Grandmother do, growing up. Now, I also think of the beautiful single crochet cross stitch that is incredibly easy to do!
The cross stitch is extremely similar to a single crochet. In fact it is made the exact same way, except for one small detail. The single crochet cross st has a look of an “X” in each stitch. This is done just by changing the way you pull the yarn through.
This stitch is a one row repeat, but has a special condition. It can only be worked in the round, so, it’s not reversible.
It’s a little awkward at first, but you do gain some speed as you go, I also find that if you hold the hook as you would a pencil it’s a little easier.
I’m using worsted weight yarn, but any weight with an appropriate hook, see the yarn label for hook size, will work. I personally would make sure that the yarn isn’t textured, because the stitch is a texture in it self.
Supplies
- Any worsted weight yarn
- I’m using Red Heart Super Savers in Minty
- An H/5mm hook
- Yarn snips
- Yarn or tapestry needle
Abbreviations
- St = stitch
- Ch = chain
- Sc = single crochet
- PYS = pull yarn straight
- Ins = insert
- YO = yarn over
- <> = total number of stitches in the row
The Single Crochet Cross Stitch Tutorial
There is no multiple for this stitch, so it can be made in any number of stitches you desire.
Foundation row: Ch 25, slst into the first ch to join.
Row 1. Ch 1, ins your hook into the first st with the hook facing downward, *put the yarn under the hook (like a claw) and pull it through straight* pull the yarn up a little so that the st is loose, then YO and pull it through both loops, repeat across the round, when you come to the end slst the last st to the first. <25>
(from here on ** is referred to as PYS)
Row 2. Ch 1, ins your hook as if you’re making a sc, make sure the hook is facing downward, PYS, pull the yarn up a little so that it’s loose, YO, pull through both loops, repeat across the round. <25>
Row 3 – 10. Repeat row 2. <25>
At the end of row 10, snip your yarn, pull the loop up til the tail is through the hole, ins your hook into the top of the stitch, hook the tail and pull it through again, weave the ends in.
Weaving in the ends for single crochet cross stitch
That’s it, the stitch is done! Bear in mind that it can take a couple of rows for it to look right. So, be patient with yourself if it doesn’t come out perfectly the first time.
The cross stitch is fairly easy once you get going and it’s a great stitch for light colored yarns because the texture is seen better. This stitch can primarily worked in the round. So, it would be a good choice for head bands or wrist warmers because it is a warm, yet airy stitch. You could easily make a bag with this stitch. I think it would be awesome to use in minimalist or Scandinavian style if done in white or gray. It would also be wonderful as a textural pop of color.
I hope you liked learning the single crochet cross stitch and found it helpful! If it was, please show your support by liking this post and following my blog, so you’re alerted whenever I make a new one. You can also sign up for The Crocheting Owl Monthly Newsletter for free patterns, updates, yarny bonuses, and more!
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What would you like to use this stitch for? Let me know in the comments below!
Looking for more stitch tutorials?
Try these!
I am going to try making it a pot holder. Since you have to work it in the round, chain enough to make it a 6×6 size and will need to close the top and bottom. Maybe it will work and maybe not-we will see.
That’s a great idea! I can definitely see that working