Crochet Tooth Stitch

The crochet Tooth Stitch is a colourful spike-style crochet pattern that combines simple rows of single crochet, double crochet and treble crochet. The taller of the stitches stretch across the contrasting section below, seating bold vertical lines that look almost like a row of little teeth!

One of the nice things about this pattern is that the elongated stitches are worked clearly into defined stitches rather than requiring you to count several rows into the fabric. This makes it a good option if you love the appearance of crochet spike stitches but want a pattern that’s relatively easy to keep track of.

Three colours work particularly well for this stitch. Choosing a strong contrast between the colour used for the tall stitches and the colour directly underneath them will make the tooth-like design much more prominent.

About the Crochet Tooth Stitch

The crochet Tooth Stitch creates its distinctive pattern by combining single cochet stitches, chain spaces, double crochet stitches and treble crochets.

First, chain spaces are created within a contrasting stripe. On the following colour section, the tall treble crochet stitches are positioned so that they extend across these spaces and create the long vertical details.

Unlike some spike stitch patterns, you don’t have to continually search for stitches several rows below your hook. Once the pattern is established, the spaces and stitches help guide the placement of the taller stitches.

Crochet Tooth Stitch Instructions

For this pattern create a chin in multiples of 4 + 4. You will need three colours, Colour A, B and C.

Row 1: Using colour A

Work a dc into the 4th ch from the hook (the 3 skipped ch count as a dc), dc in each ch across. Turn.

Row 2:

Ch 1, sc in each st across placing your last sc on top of the ch 3, changing to yarn B before you complete the sc. Turn.

Row 3: Using colour B

Ch 3, dc in next st, * ch 2, sk 2, dc in each of the next 2 sc, rep from * across. Turn.

Row 4:

Ch 1, sc in each of the next 2 sts, *ch 2, sc in each of the next 2 sts, rep from * across changing to colour C before you complete the last sc. Turn.

Row 5: Using colour C

Ch 1, sc in each of the next 2 sts, * tr in each of the 2 skipped sc 2 rows below, sc in each of the next 2 sts, rep from * across. Turn.

Row 6:

Ch 1, sc in each st across, changing to colour A before you complete the last sc. Turn.

Row 7: Using colour A

Ch 3, dc in each st across. Turn.

Row 8:

Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn.

Repeat

Repeat rows 3-8 to form your crochet Tooth Stitch pattern.

How the Tooth Effect is Created

The defining feature of this pattern is the row of elongated treble crochet stitches. The chain spaces made in the contrasting section provide room for the taller stitches to stretch across the fabric. Rather than simply filling those spaces, the treble stitches extend over them and connect with the stitches below.

This gives the finished fabric its characteristic vertical tooth-like lines while still keeping the overall pattern neat and balanced.

Changing Colours

For a tidy colour change, introduce the new colour during the final yarn over of the last stitch in the row. Your next row will begin completely in the new colour.

Because the colours are reused throughout the pattern, you may be able to carry the unused yarn neatly up the side rather than fastening off after every stripe.

Tips for Crocheting the Tooth Stitch

Pay particular attention to the chain spaces in rows 3 and 4. They establish where the elongated stitches will sit later in the pattern, so keeping the stitch count accurate here makes the following rows considerably easier.

When making the treble crochet stitches, keep an even tension and allow the stitch enough height to lie comfortably across the rows below. If they’re pulled too tightly, the fabric can begin to bunch.

Colour choice makes a surprisingly big difference with this pattern. If all three shades are very similar, those lovely tall stitches can disappear into the background. Contrasting shades make the design much easier to see.

Crochet Tooth Stitch FAQs

Is the crochet Tooth Stitch difficult?

I’d class this as an intermediate stitch pattern. The individual crochet stitches aren’t especially difficult but you’ll need to be comfortable with colour changes, chain spaces and taller stitches.

What is the stitch multiple?

The foundation chain is worked in a multiple of 4 + 4.

Why aren’t my tall stitches standing out?

Check both your tension and your colour choices. The treble stitches should be long enough to sit comfortably over the contrasting section without pulling it upwards. A stronger colour contrast will also make the vertical design considerably clearer.

Can I crochet the Tooth Stitch in two colours?

Yes, although three colours make the different sections particularly easy to distinguish . If using only two colours, choose shades with plenty of contrast so the tall stitches don’t disappear into the background.