Single crochet worked backwards — a rope-like edge. ImproverUS: rev scUK: rev dc
In US terms this is the Crab Stitch (rev sc). In UK terms the same stitch is called the Crab Stitch (rev dc). They are the identical stitch — only the name changes. Not sure which system a pattern uses? If it mentions a single crochet, it's US; if it mentions a half treble, it's UK. Convert any pattern with the US ↔ UK tool.
Video tutorial — pick your hand
Every stitch in Crochets has a mirrored lesson for lefties — no more mentally flipping videos.
🎬 Right-handed video by Tamara Kelly – Moogly on YouTube.
How to crochet the Crab Stitch — step by step
Do not turn your work at the end of the row — you'll crochet backwards, left to right for right-handers (right to left for lefties).
Insert the hook into the next stitch to the right (toward the direction you'd normally come from), yarn over and pull up a loop.
Yarn over and pull through both loops, exactly like a single crochet worked in reverse.
Continue along the edge. The twist creates a corded, rope-like finish that stops edges from curling.
Instructions use US terms. Working left-handed? Do exactly the same moves as a mirror image — insert the hook from the same side of the stitch, working from left to right instead of right to left.
Where to use it
Borders finish a project and stop edges from stretching or curling. Most borders start with one plain round of single crochet to give the fancy round something even to sit on.
Common mistakes with the Crab Stitch
Not working enough stitches into the sides of rows — side edges need roughly 1 stitch per row for sc, 2–3 per row for dc.
Forgetting corner increases (usually 3 sts or sc-ch2-sc in each corner).
Working the border too tight — it will cup your blanket.
Planning a project with the Crab Stitch? Use the free yarn calculator to work out how many skeins you need, and the foundation chain calculator to get the width right the first time.
The Crab Stitch has the same name in UK and US terminology, abbreviated rev sc.
Is the Crab Stitch good for beginners?
It is an improver stitch — comfortable once you know the basic stitches. Single crochet worked backwards — a rope-like edge.
Can I crochet the Crab Stitch left-handed?
Yes. Left-handed crocheters work the same stitch as a mirror image — right to left becomes left to right. Crochets includes a left-handed video for the Crab Stitch, and its pattern tools write instructions in your working direction.
What is the Crab Stitch used for?
Borders finish a project and stop edges from stretching or curling. Most borders start with one plain round of single crochet to give the fancy round something even to sit on.
Learn the Crab Stitch in your hand, at your pace
Crochets has 300 stitches with right- and left-handed videos, a pattern designer that writes the pattern for you, and a photo preview of your finished piece. Free to start.