I've had a lot of people ask me about reverse single crochet (abbreviated rev sc or rsc; I've seen it both ways), also known as the crab stitch.
It is a bit of an awkward stitch at first, but once you get the hang of it, is really quite easy. What makes it so awkward is that it is worked the opposite way we typically crochet. The stitch is worked backwards; or from left to right.
I'm going to try to give detailed directions on reverse single crochet (rev sc/rsc) in my own words. The stitch instructions can also be found in the back of most crochet books where the stitches are explained. And, if you Google reverse single crochet (rev sc/rsc), I'm sure you will also find some video tutorials as well.
Step-by-Step - Reverse Single Crochet
(rev sc/rsc)
Step 1: Hold your project with the right side facing you.
Step 2: I always chain 1 before I start my row (or round) of reverse single crochet (rev sc/rsc)
Step 3: Insert your hook into the stitch to the right of your current stitch (you will be inserting your hook from the front of your work to the back).
Step 4: Yarnover and pull a loop through your stitch, you'll have two loops on your hook. (At this point I find it helpful to hold my hook horizontal to the top of my work. This gives me a chance to make sure my stitches are not twisted or tangled over each other. The loop you just pulled up will be closest to your hook and both loops should be level with each other.)
Step 5: Holding your hook horizontally, yarnover and pull yarn through both loops on your hook. ( I try to keep my hook horizontal as I find it helps to keep my stitches even.)
You'll need to complete five or six stitches before you'll be able to really see the cording emerge. (Note: You want to pull your stitches firmly, but not too tightly or else your fabric will pull.)
So, there you have it! :-)
Reverse single crochet (rev sc/rsc), is probably one of my favorite ways to complete a project. It creates a nice firm and professional finish. I think this edge resembles a corded edging that you might find on a commercial item.
Good luck and I hope you've found this helpful.
HDP
I have always liked the look of that stitch.
ReplyDeleteAnd everytime I want to do it, I have to review it! Good tute!
This is my favorite stitch. Great tutorial!
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting this. I haven't had luck doing this stitch yet. So far I've been all thumbs. I'd really like to learn it because it makes such a nice edging. I'm glad you put a big close up of it because this is the best picture I've seen of it.
ReplyDeleteI try to avoid that stitch if I can LOL I have done it though and it is awkward and I feel clumsy when doing it, great tutorial that you gave though and so nice and thoughtful of you to share with everyone, hope you have a happy weekend :o)
ReplyDeleteThank you morningstar, Sharon Marie and Lynn. :-) Hope you have a great day.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a good one to try. Thanks Heather.
ReplyDeleteI too love the reverse SC. I think it's the perfect finishing stitch/round for pot holders, dish cloths and hats. My friends think it's such a neat and groovy stitch.
ReplyDeleteThank you Clara and Kat. :-)
ReplyDeleteI have crocheted for many years and still find this stitch a bit hard to do, simply because of crocheting left to right. It does make a perfect edge though, especially on dishcloths and other items that you might want a firm edge. I taught a friend how to do this edge the other day. I have printed this tutorial out for her. It is the best tutorial I've ever seen on how to do this stitch. You did a great job.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the nice compliment. :-)
ReplyDeleteOK, so I undertook the project. It's finished, not perfect, but so much fun!! I'm so glad I found your blog.
ReplyDeleteThank you! Looked at 2 or 3 other sites before yours & yours was THE BEST! Finally got it.
ReplyDelete