The Crochet Interlocking Cluster Stitch is a beautiful stitch pattern that combines alternating rows of three dc “shells” and dc3tog clusters to create an eye catching interlocking design. The clusters sit beside one another, forming a textured fabric with small decorative openings throughout.
Despite the intricate appearance, this stitch uses familiar crochet techniques and a simple three stitch pattern repeat. It’s a lovely choice for crocheters who enjoy working with clusters and shells but want to try something a little different.
About the Crochet Interlocking Cluster Stitch
The crochet Interlocking Cluster Stitch gets its name from the way the alternating rows of shells and clusters appear to fit together.
One row features groups of three double crochets worked into the same stitch, creating small fan shaped shells. The following row uses dc3tog clusters, bringing three stitches together at the top.
By staggering these two stitch combinations, the pattern develops a distinctive interlocking appearance. Small chain spaces separate the clusters adding a delicate, slightly open texture to the finished fabric.
Crochet Interlocking Cluster Stitch at a Glance
- Skill level: Easy/Intermediate
- Stitch type: Cluster and shell combination
- Stitch multiple: 3 + 4
- Row repeat: 6 rows
- Texture: Decorative, interlocking clusters with small openings
Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- dc – double crochet
- dc2tog – double crochet 2 together
- dc3tog – double crochet 3 together
- yo – yarn over
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- rep – repeat
- sp – space
Special stitches:
Double crochet 2 together (dc2tog): yo, insert hook into designated st, yo and pull up loop, yo and pull through 2 loops, yo, insert hook in next st, yo and pull up a loop, yo and pull through 2 loops, yo and pull through all 3 loops to complete the dc2tog.
Double crochet 3 together (dc3tog): yo, insert hook in the designated st, yo and pull up loop, yo and pull through 2 loop, yo and insert hook in next st, yo and pull up a loop, yo and pull through 2 loops, yo and insert hook into next st, yo and pull up a loop, yo and pull through 2 loops, yo and pull through all 4 loops to complete the dc3tog.
How to Crochet the Interlocking Cluster Stitch
Make a foundation ch in multiples of 3 + 4
Row 1:
Work 3 dc into the 5th ch from the hook, *sk 2 ch, 3 dc in the next ch, rep from * across until 2 ch remain, sk 1, dc in the last ch. Turn.
Row 2:
Ch 4 (counts as a dc and a ch 1), dc3tog over the next 3 dc, *ch 2, dc3tog over the next 3 dc, rep from * across ending with ch 1, dc on top of ch 3 turning ch. Turn.
Row 3:
Ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc next ch-1 sp, *sk the dc3tog st and the next ch, 3 dc in next ch, rep from * across ending with 2 dc on the 3rd ch of the turning ch. Turn.
Row 4:
Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in next dc, ch 1, *dc3tog over the next 3 dc, ch 2, rep from * across ending with dc2tog over last 2 dc, dc on top of turning ch. Turn.
Row 5:
Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in the next st, sk 1 ch, 3 dc in the next ch, *sk the dc3tog cl st and the next ch, 3 dc in the next ch, rep from * across ending with 2 dc in last dc, dc on top of turning ch. Turn.
Row 6:
Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc2tog, *ch 2, dc3tog over next 3 dc, rep from * across ending with ch 1, dc in last dc, dc on top of ch 3 turning ch. Turn.
Row 7:
Ch 3 (counts as dc), 3 dc in next ch-1sp, *sk next dc3tog st and the next ch, 3 dc in the next ch, rep from * across skipping the last dc2tog, dc on top of ch 3 turning ch. Turn.
Repeat:
Rep rows 2-7 for the stitch pattern.
Crochet Interlocking Cluster Stitch FAQs
Is the Crochet Interlocking Cluster Stitch suitable for beginners?
This interlocking cluster stitch is best suited to confident beginners or intermediate crocheters who are comfortable working double crochet stitches and decreases. The individual techniques are quite simple although the staggered placement requires a little attention when establishing the pattern.
What is the stitch multiple?
The foundation chain is a multiple of 3 + 4.
Is this a reversible crochet stitch?
Both sides of the fabric display the decorative cluster arrangement, although their appearance may differ slightly.
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