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Which crochet stitches don’t stretch out
If you are looking for crochet stitches that don’t stretch out, this is the post for you! This collection of no-stretch crochet stitches are great for every crocheter stitch arsenal.
For different reasons, the structure of each of these stitches means they won’t lose their shape and some are downright STIFF.
Depending on what your crochet project is, you can still get flexibility without droop. Yarn type, hook size, and stitch type all play a role in how stretchy a stitch and finished project are. You can combine on of these stitches with alternating rows of other regular stitches to create interesting texture while reducing droop or stretching out.
Experiment with hook size and stitch combinations to come up with the perfect stitch repeat for your project or design. I do this all the time when working with drapey yarns like Truboo or bamboo yarn to get a finished item that keeps its shape.
Table of Contents
No stretch slip stitch
Slip stitches are a fundamental crochet stitch that is commonly used for joining pieces together or creating a neat edge. One of the key characteristics of slip stitches is that they do not stretch. This lack of stretch makes slip stitches ideal for projects where you want a more structured and stable fabric.
While slip stitches are often used as a finishing stitch, a joining stitch or a streamline stitch to narrow a crochet hat that is worked flat (as opposed to in the round), slip stitches are still stitches.
When working slip stitches, the yarn is simply pulled through the loop on the hook without creating any additional loops or height. This minimal construction means that slip stitches do not have the same elasticity as other crochet stitches.
They are very low stretch because the step of working new yarn into a stitch is skipped so there is no way for the yarn to stretch much, if at all.
Slip stitches should be worked with at least the hook size shown in the yarn label, if not larger because the slip stitch can become very snug and difficult to work into otherwise.
You can consider alternating rows of any stitch with a row slip stitches to create less stretch while also creating a unique texture.
You may like these 5 no stretch crochet bag strap patterns
Thermal stitch low stretch crochet stitch
The thermal stitch has wonderful flexibility without drooping. Sounds impossible but it’s true! It’s a beautiful stitch that almost looks like it is knitted.
It is a dense stitch that makes for great things like crochet potholders and crochet bag strap. You certainly can use a larger hook and play around with gauge to create garments and blankets with it as well.
It gets its no-stretch quality from supporting stitches. Rather than working into one stitch, the thermal stitch stacks itself like stadium seating and works into a stitch PLUS one loop from the row stacked below.
You can see a thermal stitch tutorial to try the stitch for yourself in this free crochet thermal stitch pattern post. There is a video tutorial on the page too so you can see the stitch in action!
You can also see the no stretch purse strap version using the thermal stitch.
Wrapped crochet stitch
This stitch alternates single crochet, then the following row, the single crochet works under the row below wrapping and securing the row thus stabilizing it. To me this is the least stretchy, most stiff crochet stitch because it is so secure.
Hook size plays a big role in how dense and flexible this stitch is. You can get drape by using a hook size or two larger than recommended for the yarn. To make it almost stiff, go down half or one whole hook size as shown for a bag strap.
It can be quite pretty because it looks woven after you’ve worked up a few rows. If you find the waistcoat stitch tough to work this is a good alternative as you don’t need to fiddle with where to split the stitch to work into it.
You can make pretty crochet bags, bag straps, even blankets and garments with this stitch using the right hook size.
Mug rug free pattern woven look stitch
See how to work this stitch in this post, and see how I incorporate different aspects of the stitches in this post into 5 types of no stretch crochet bag straps.
Waistcoat stitch
The waistcoat stitch has you working under and into a stitch “splitting it” thus providing a secure stitch that has minimal drop yet is still flexible.
It is often referred to as the crochet knit stitch because it looks so much like a knitting knit stitch. Generally, you will need to use a larger hook so the stitches can be split and worked in to, thus making it a stitch that will have some drape yet hold its shape.
It makes beautiful scarves and accessories as well as garments.
See the tutorial as shown in this image on Stardust gold crochet website.
T-shirts and project totes for crocheters available in my Etsy shop!
Linked single crochet stitch
The linked single crochet stitch relies on the stitch next to it which gives it support preventing it from drooping. This stitch is a favorite of mine not only because it holds its shape nicely but it is gorgeous! It creates a gentle waffle like texture.
As the thermal stitch relies on working into a stitch below, the linked crochet stitch relies on the stitch directly beside it for support thus making the stitch less prone to droop, sag or stretch out.
It uses about 50% more yarn (unlike the slip stitch which uses 50% less yarn per stitch) which makes it absorbent for things like pet mats and crochet spa sets.
You can see in these images how beautifully the linked single crochet is for these practical crochet items such as an absorbent water bowl pet mat, crochet kitchen towel, and using soft cotton yarn to create a luxe crochet spa set.
Click the images to see the crochet tutorials using the linked single crochet stitch.
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