What is the Catherine Wheel Stitch?
The Catherine Wheel stitch is a beautiful and intricate pattern that can add a unique touch to any crochet project. Whether you are a seasoned crocheter or a beginner, this stitch is sure to impress. Give it a try and see what kind of beautiful creations you can come up with.
There are a few variations of how to create this stitch. I use the double crochet 7 together variation. I also slip stitch to close the gap that is normally created in the “standard” Catherine Wheel stitch. If you would like to learn this way, keep reading.
For this tutorial, I use US terms.
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Materials Needed
Yarn – Any kind, but I used Lion Brand’s Feels Like Butta, which is a 4 (medium) weight yarn. It is soft and perfect for making blankets and garments.
Crochet Hook -I used size G or 4 mm crochet hook.
Scissors – Any kind will do to cut off yarn before you weave in the ends.
Tapestry or Darning needle – I like Clover Darning Needles but any kind will do as long as it has a blunt tip.
Stiches and Abbreviations Used (US Terms)
Chain – (ch)
Slip stitch – (sl st)
Single crochet – (sc)
Double crochet (dc)
Double crochet 7 together (dc7tog)
How to Crochet the Catherine Wheel Stitch
Start with a chain (ch) in multiples of 10 then add 7. I chained 37 for my swatch.
Row 1: Skip 1st ch, sc in next ch, sc in next ch, skip 3 chains, 7 dc all in next ch, skip 3 chains, sc in each of next 3 chains, skip 3 chains, 7 dc all in next ch, skip 3 chains, sc in each of next 3 chains, continue this pattern across the row. When there are 4 chains left in the row, skip 3 chains and make 4 dc all in the last chain.
Row 2: (switch color here if desired) ch 1, turn work, sc in 1st st and sc in 2nd st, ch 3, over the next 7 stitches do a dc7tog, ch 1, sl st into the side of the last dc in cluster, then sl st into the base of that dc (this is what will eliminate the gaps), sc in each of the next 3 stitches, ch 3, over the next 7 stitches make a dc7tog, ch 1, sl st into side of last dc and sl st into base, sc in each of next 3 stitches, ch 3, continue this pattern across the row. When 4 stitches are left in the row, make the last ch 3 and dc4tog over the last 4 stitches.
Row 3: (use same color yarn) chain 3, turn work, make 3 dc all in 1st stitch, then make 1 sc in each of the 3 sc from previous row, then in the center of the previous row’s cluster, make 7 dc’s, then 1 sc in each of the 3 sc from previous row, 7 dc’s in the center of the previous row’s cluster, 1 sc in each of the 3 sc’s from previous row, 7 dc’s in center of previous row’s cluster. Repeat this pattern across the row. When there are 2 stitches left in the row, place 1 sc in each of the last 2 stitches.
Row 4: (Change color here if desired) ch 3, turn work, begin with dc3tog over 1st 3 stitches, ch 1, sl st into the side of the last dc and sl st into the base, 1 sc in each of next 3 stitches, chain 3, dc7tog over next 7 stitches, ch 1, sl st into side of last dc and sl st into base, 1 sc in each of next 3 stitches, chain 3, dc7tog over next7 stitches. Repeat across row. At the end of the row place 1 sc in each of the last 2 stitches.
Row 5: Ch 1, turn work, 1 sc in each of first 2 stitches, 7 dc’s all in center of previous row’s cluster, sc in each of the 3 sc’s from previous row, 7 dc’s in center of previous row’s cluster. Repeat pattern across row. At end of row, skip 3 chains and place 4 dc’s all in last stitch.
For the remaining rows of your project, repeat rows 2-5 (the next row will be repeating row 2, the next row 3, etc.).
Conclusion
The Catherine Wheel Stitch is a captivating crochet technique that opens up a world of possibilities for creating stunning and intricate projects. With the step-by-step instructions and tips provided in this blog post, you’re well on your way to mastering this beautiful stitch. Whether you’re crafting cozy blankets, eye-catching scarves, or intricate afghans, the Catherine Wheel Stitch is sure to add a touch of elegance to your crochet repertoire.
Happy Crocheting!
