3-Double Crochet Cluster Stitch 

This stitch is the 3-Double Crochet Cluster Stitch (abbreviated as 3-dc cl).

Unlike a shell stitch (which spreads out at the top), a cluster stitch gathers at both the bottom and the top, forming a leaf- or eye-shaped texture.

Here is how to work a single cluster stitch, followed by a simple practice pattern.

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How to Work a Single 3-Double Crochet Cluster (3-dc cl)

To work a cluster, you will make three partially completed double crochets in the same stitch, then join them together at the end:

1. Yarn over, insert hook into the designated stitch.
2. Yarn over, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).
3. Yarn over, pull through 2 loops (2 loops remaining on hook. This is your first incomplete double crochet).
4. Yarn over, insert hook into the same stitch.
5. Yarn over, pull up a loop (4 loops on hook).
6. Yarn over, pull through 2 loops (3 loops remaining on hook. Second incomplete double crochet).
7. Yarn over, insert hook into the same stitch once more.
8. Yarn over, pull up a loop (5 loops on hook).
9. Yarn over, pull through 2 loops (4 loops remaining on hook. Third incomplete double crochet).
10. Yarn over and pull through all 4 loops on your hook to close the cluster.

(Note: Many patterns will instruct you to chain 1 immediately after completing a cluster to lock it in place.)

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Simple Practice Swatch Pattern

Because cluster stitches are thick, they are typically separated by chains to help the fabric lie flat. Here is a basic pattern to practice working them in rows:

Stitch Key:

• ch: chain
• dc: double crochet
• sk: skip
• sp: space
• 3-dc cl: 3-double crochet cluster

Pattern:

• Foundation: Chain an even number of stitches (for example, chain 16).
• Row 1:
  • Work 1 dc in the 4th chain from your hook (the skipped chains count as your first dc).
  • Ch 1, sk the next chain, work a 3-dc cl in the next chain.
  • Repeat from * to * across until you have 2 chains left.
  • Skip 1 chain, then work 1 dc in the very last chain. Turn.
• Row 2:
  • Ch 3 (counts as your first dc).
  • Work a 3-dc cl into the next ch-1 space, then ch 1.
  • Repeat from * to * across, working your clusters directly into the spaces created by the chains in the previous row.
  • End the row by working 1 dc into the top of the turning chain-3. Turn.
• To continue: Repeat Row 2 to grow your swatch.