Crochet Ripple Stitch

The crochet Ripple Stitch is a classic pattern that creates a flowing series of peaks and valleys across the fabric. Using only double crochet stitches together with simple increases and decreases, the straight rows gradually form the familiar wave shape.

This is a lovely stitch for experimenting with colour . You can work the entire piece in one shade for a subtle textured effect or change colours between rows to create bold ripple stripes.

Once the first row established the pattern, the same sequence is repeated, making this a surprisingly rhythmic stitch to crochet.

About the Crochet Ripple Stitch

The shape of the crochet Ripple Stitch comes from carefully positioned increases and decreases. At the top of each peak two double crochet stitches are worked into the same stitch twice. At the valleys, double crochet decreases balance one another, allowing the fabric to keep its stitch count while forming its distinctive zigzag shape.

Crochet Ripple Stitch Instructions

Begin with a chain multiple of 12 + 3.

Row 1:

Work a dc into the 4th ch from the hook (the 3 skipped ch counts as a dc), *dc in the next 3 ch, (dc2tog) twice, dc in each of the next 3 ch,**, (2 dc in next ch) twice, rep from * across ending the last rep at **, 2 dc in the turning ch. Turn.

Row 2:

Ch 3 (counts as the first dc), dc in the first dc, *dc in each of the next 3 sts, (dc2tog) twice, dc in each of the next 3 sts**, (2 dc in the next st) twice, rep from * across ending the last rep at **, 2 dc in the turning ch. Turn.

Repeat

Rep row 2 for your swatch.

Tips for a Neat Crochet Ripple

The most useful habit when learning this stitch is to keep track of your increases and decreases. If one is missed your peaks can gradually wander away from where they’re supposed to be. After a few rows, the pattern becomes much easier to read visually. You’ll begin to recognise the two decreases sitting at each valley and the increases forming the top of the peak.

If your first couple of rows look more like a mildly confused zigzag than a beautiful ripple, give them a chance. The shape becomes much clearer as additional rows are added.

Crochet Ripple Stitch FAQs

Is the Ripple Stitch difficult?

The individual stitches are quite straightforward particularly if you’re already comfortable with double crochet. The main challenge is keeping the increases and decreases in the correct positions so I would consider this an easy to intermediate stitch.

How many chains do I need for the crochet Ripple Stitch?

Your starting chain multiple is 12 + 3.

What’s the difference between ripple and chevron crochet?

The names are sometimes used interchangeably but ripple patterns generally have softer flowing peaks and valleys., while the chevron stitch is often used for designs with a sharper zigzag appearance.