If you love textured crochet patterns, learning the honeycomb stitch crochet technique will open a new world of possibilities. This beautiful stitch creates a woven, slightly raised effect that resembles a honeycomb—making it perfect for scarves, blankets, bags, and more.
In this guide, you’ll learn what the honeycomb stitch crochet is, how to make it step-by-step, and ways you can use it creatively in your projects.
What Is Honeycomb Stitch Crochet?
The honeycomb stitch crochet is a textured pattern that looks like small hexagonal cells, much like a natural beehive. Depending on the method, it can be made using simple chain spaces and stitches, or more complex techniques like Tunisian crochet.
Two popular ways to create a honeycomb effect are:
- Basic Honeycomb Crochet using chain spaces and single or double crochets
- Tunisian Honeycomb Stitch using a special hook and alternating simple stitches
In both versions, the stitch pattern gives a slightly thick, dimensional look, making your fabric soft and visually interesting.
Materials You Will Need
To practice honeycomb stitch crochet, gather the following:
- Yarn (medium weight yarn is beginner-friendly)
- A crochet hook appropriate for your yarn
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle for finishing
Optional for Tunisian crochet: a long Tunisian hook or a hook with a flexible cable
How to Crochet the Basic Honeycomb Stitch
This easy version works beautifully without needing Tunisian methods. Here’s how to crochet a simple honeycomb stitch:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Chain a multiple of 4 + 1 stitches.
- Row 1:
- Single crochet into the second chain from the hook.
- Chain 3, skip 3 chains, single crochet in the next chain—repeat across.
- Turn your work.
- Row 2:
- Chain 4 (counts as 1 double crochet plus chain 1).
- Single crochet into the top of the chain-3 loop, chain 3—repeat across.
- End with a double crochet into the last single crochet of the previous row.
- Turn.
- Row 3:
- Chain 1.
- Single crochet into the first stitch.
- Chain 3, single crochet into the chain space—repeat across.
- Turn.
- Repeat Rows 2 and 3 for the pattern.
As you repeat, the stitches and chains stack to create the open, airy honeycomb structure.
How to Make the Tunisian Honeycomb Stitch
For an even more woven and solid look, you can use Tunisian crochet:
Basic Tunisian Honeycomb Instructions:
- Foundation Row:
- Chain any number of stitches.
- Pick up loops across (like in Tunisian simple stitch).
- First Pattern Row:
- Tunisian simple stitch (TSS) in first stitch, Tunisian purl stitch (TPS) in next stitch—alternate across the row.
- Work a normal return pass (yarn over, pull through one loop, then yarn over, pull through two loops until you have one loop left).
- Second Pattern Row:
- Tunisian purl stitch in first stitch, Tunisian simple stitch in next stitch—alternate across.
- Work a normal return pass.
- Repeat alternating rows to form the honeycomb texture.
Tips for Perfect Honeycomb Stitch Crochet
- Use consistent tension: Especially important when chaining and creating chain spaces.
- Choose the right yarn: Solid colors show off the honeycomb texture better than heavily variegated yarns.
- Block your project: Lightly steaming or blocking your finished work enhances the honeycomb definition.
Projects That Look Great with Honeycomb Stitch Crochet
Once you’ve practiced the honeycomb stitch crochet, try using it in these projects:
- Lightweight scarves with airy, open designs
- Tote bags with textured panels
- Blankets featuring both solid and open spaces
- Table runners for a rustic handmade touch
- Shawls and wraps with beautiful drape
The stitch’s mix of solid and open spaces adds visual interest and elegance to any project.
Final Thoughts
The honeycomb stitch crochet technique is a wonderful skill to add to your crochet toolbox. Whether you’re making an airy scarf or a cozy blanket, the honeycomb stitch gives your work a unique, professional-looking texture that’s both fun to make and beautiful to wear or display.
Now that you know the basics, why not try incorporating the honeycomb stitch into your next project? You’ll be surprised how quickly this gorgeous pattern becomes a favorite!