Crochet Open Wave Stitch

The crochet Open Wave stitch combines airy, open rows with solid bands of single crochet to create a beautifully defined wave pattern. Different stitch heights rise and fall across the row giving the fabric its flowing space.

Between the open wave rows, single crochet stitches are worked into the back loop only. This adds subtle ridges to the fabric and helps emphasise each wave.

The pattern also works very well with colour. You can change yarn after the even numbered rows to create contrasting waves and stripes or use a single shade for a more understated textured effect.

Crochet Open Wave Stitch Instructions

This stitch patterns uses stitch multiples of 16 + 2.

Row 1:

Work a sc into the 2nd ch from the hook, sc in the next ch, * ch 1, sk the next ch, hdc in the next ch, ch 1, sk the next ch, dc in the next ch, ch 1, skip the next ch, tr in the next ch, ch 1,, sk the next ch, tr in the next ch, ch 1, sk the next ch, sc in the next ch, ch 1, sk the next ch, hdc in the next, ch 1, sk the next ch**, sc in the next 3 ch, rep from * across ending the last rep at **, sc in the last 2 ch. Turn.

Row 2:

Ch 1, sc in to each st and ch-1 sp across. Turn.

Row 3:

Ch 4 (counts as a tr), *trBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, dcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, dcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, hdcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, scBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, hdcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, dcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, **, trBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, rep from * across ending the last rep at **, trBLO in each of the last 2 sts. Turn.

Row 4:

Ch 1, sc in each st and ch-1 sp across. Turn.

Row 5:

Ch 1, scBLO in the first st, scBLO in the next st, *ch 1, sk the next st, hdcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, dcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, (trBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st) twice, dcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, hdcBLO in the next st, ch 1, sk the next st, **, scBLO in the next 3 sts, rep from * across ending the last rep at **, scBLO in the last 2 sts. Turn.

Repeat:

Rep rows 2-5 for your required swatch.

How the Open Wave Stitch is Formed

Unlike a traditional ripple that relies mainly on increases and decreases, this pattern creates its curves by changing the height of the stitches. Single, half, double and treble crochet stitches gradually move the fabric upwards and downwards. hair one spaces between them keep the wave open and airy.

The solid single crochet rows between the open sections provide structure while working subsequent stitches into the back loops creates ridges that make the waves more noticeable.

Tips for Working the Open Wave Stitch

Keep the chain one spaces fairly relaxed. If they’re worked too tightly, the open sections can pull inward and interfere with the natural curve of the wave. On the solid rows, remember to work a single crochet into both the stitches and the chain one spaces. Missing one of those spaces will alter your stitch count and eventually send the wave slightly off course.

When working a back loop row check that you’re working only the back loop rather than both loops. Those unworked front loops are what produces the subtle ridges across the fabric.

Crochet Open Wave Stitch FAQs

Is the Crochet Open Wave Stitch suitable for beginners?

It’s best suited to an adventurous beginner or intermediate crocheter. None of the individual stitches are very difficult but you’ll need to be comfortable switching between several stitch heights, identifying chain spaces and working into the back loop.

What is the stitch multiple for the Open Wave stitch?

The stitch multiple for the crochet Open Wave stitch is 16 + 2.

How many rows are in the pattern repeat?

The Open Wave stitch had a four row pattern repeat. After establishing the first row, rows 2-5 form the repeating sequence.