Almond Stitch Crochet Tutorial: A Beginner’s Guide to Textured Perfection
If you’re looking to level up your crochet game without diving into something too complex, I’ve got just the stitch for you: the Almond Stitch! It’s beginner-friendly, easy to master, and gives your projects a beautifully textured, wavy, and squishy look. Plus, it’s versatile enough for a ton of different crochet projects. Whether you’re working on a hat, scarf, blanket, or even a washcloth, the Almond Stitch has you covered.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the beauty of the Almond Stitch, why it’s perfect for crochet newbies, and how you can incorporate it into your next project. Get ready for a step-by-step photo tutorial as well as video links for both right- and left-handed crocheters. Let’s dive in!
The Visual Appeal of the Almond Stitch
First things first—this stitch looks fantastic! The Almond Stitch creates a subtle but gorgeous texture with soft, wavy ridges. Think of it like a series of little almonds (hence the name) nestled together, giving your project a stunning visual effect. It’s the kind of texture that begs to be touched, so expect your projects to look squishy, tactile, and oh-so-inviting.
Even though the Almond Stitch has a nice texture, it doesn’t create a stiff fabric. It remains flexible and soft, making it perfect for garments like cardigans, sweaters, scarves, and hats, but also great for home décor projects like pillows, blankets, and even washcloths.
Why Beginners Will Love the Almond Stitch
Now, I know you’re thinking, “That looks too advanced for me!” Well, let me tell you—this stitch is ideal for beginners who want to branch out beyond the basic stitches like single crochet and double crochet. The Almond Stitch is a fun mix of two basic stitches: slip stitches and half double crochet (HDC) in the back loop only (BLO). That’s it! So if you’re already comfortable with those stitches, you’re good to go.
The magic comes in how you work them together. By working int to he back loop and alternating slip stitches and HDC, you create the signature wavy ridge pattern. It’s simple but oh-so-effective, and it’s one of those stitches that will make you feel like a crochet pro without being intimidating.
Trust me—if you can do basic crochet, you can totally nail the Almond Stitch!
Why People Will Love this Stitch
- It’s Squishy and Soft: The Almond Stitch is perfect for creating plush, tactile fabrics. Whether you’re crocheting a blanket, a sweater, or a cozy washcloth, this stitch adds that “hug me” texture that you just can’t get enough of.
- It’s Versatile: The Almond Stitch looks gorgeous in any yarn type, from cotton to wool to acrylic. It’s perfect for both lightweight and chunky yarns, so you can experiment and make different kinds of projects. Want a delicate scarf? Almond Stitch. Need a thick, cozy blanket? Almond Stitch. It’s truly a chameleon stitch that adapts to your needs.
- It’s Fast to Work Up: The stitch may look intricate, but it works up quickly! The combination of slip stitches and half double crochets gives you nice texture without adding too much bulk. Plus, it’s a great stitch to work on while watching your favorite shows (we all do it, don’t deny it!).
- It’s Perfect for Gifts: If you’re looking to make a handmade gift that’s sure to impress, the Almond Stitch is a winner. Whether you crochet a scarf, washcloth, or bag, people will be in awe of how pretty the texture is.
Projects You Can Make with the Almond Stitch
Now that you’re sold on how gorgeous and versatile the Almond Stitch is, you’re probably wondering what projects you can use it for. The answer: everything!
Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Hats & Scarves: Add a cozy and textured touch to your cold-weather accessories.
- Bags & Purses: The Almond Stitch creates a lovely, sturdy fabric for crochet bags.
- Cardigans & Sweaters: The soft, wavy texture makes for a beautiful and comfy garment.
- Washcloths & Dish Towels: The stitch works up quickly, making it great for practical items around the home.
- Blankets & Pillows: Add texture and warmth to your living room with a gorgeous throw or cushion.
- Home Décor: Use it for rugs, placemats, or other decorative items in your home.
You can use the Almond Stitch for so much more than just the basics—it’s a multi-purpose stitch that will bring a new level of texture to all your projects.
Video Tutorials
If you’re more of a visual learner (aren’t we all sometimes?), I’ve got you covered! Below, you’ll find video tutorials for both right- and left-handed crocheters. These tutorials walk you through the process of working up a washcloth-sized project, so feel free to follow along and keep going until your washcloth is a perfect square!
- Right-Handed Video Tutorial: https://youtu.be/vMiwDC2cNHw
- Left-Handed Video Tutorial: https://youtu.be/aa1Y3iXiUvU
Photo Tutorial for the Almond Stitch
Ready to learn the Almond Stitch? Here’s a simple step-by-step photo tutorial to get you started. Follow along, and soon you’ll be working up this gorgeous stitch in no time!
Chain start: Start with a multiple of 8+5 e.g. 21, 37. This will be the base for your Almond Stitch pattern.
- Row 1 (Set-Up): SS in second ch from hook and each of the next 3 sts. *Hdc in next 4 ch’s, ss in next 4 ch’s*. Rep from * to * across. You should end the row with 4 slip sts.
- Row 2 Turn, Ch1, HDC BLO in first st and next 3 sts, *ss BLO in next 4 sts, HDC BLO in next 4 sts*. Rep from * to * across. You should end the row with 4 HDC BLO sts.
- Row 3: Rep row 2
- Row 4: Turn, Ch1, ss BLO in first st and next 3 sts, *hdc BLO in next 4 sts, ss BLO in next 4 sts*. Rep from * to * across. You should end the row with 4 ss BLO sts.
- Row 5: Rep row 4
Check out the photo tutorial below for visual guidance!
Chart for the Almond Stitch
*Please note that the slip stitches are all worked into the back loop only also (my charting software would not allow me to create the stitch representation for this.
Patterns Using this Stitch
Now that you’ve mastered the Almond Stitch, it’s time to put your new skill to work! While you are waiting for me to start releasing patterns with the almond stitch why not use the videos to make your own almond stitch washcloth?!
In Conclusion
The Almond Stitch is perfect for beginner crocheters who want to add a beautiful, textured stitch to their repertoire without getting overwhelmed. It’s easy to learn, works up quickly, and has so many amazing applications in both wearable and home décor items. Whether you’re making cozy scarves, plush pillows, or cute washcloths, this stitch will give your project that extra touch of squishiness and charm.
I hope you enjoyed this Almond Stitch crochet tutorial and found it helpful. Don’t forget to check out the video tutorials for more guidance, and be sure to explore the patterns linked above to inspire your next project.
You can also tag me with your project on Facebook and Instagram.
Happy crocheting, and may your projects be as squishy as they are gorgeous! 💕
