Spiked Single Crochet Stitch Tutorial (SpSc)
This Spiked Single Crochet Stitch Tutorial walks you through a simple variation of the classic single crochet that adds beautiful texture and visual interest to your crochet fabric. By working the stitch into a row below instead of the current row, you create a subtle vertical spike that elevates even the simplest stitch patterns.
The Spiked Single Crochet stitch, sometimes called a single crochet spike stitch, is a simple variation of the basic single crochet that adds texture and visual interest to your crochet fabric.
Because it uses basic crochet skills, the spike single crochet stitch is approachable for confident beginners and is a great way to add detail without complicating your project.
What Is the Spike Stitch in Crochet?
In crochet, a spike stitch refers to any stitch worked into a row below the current one. Spikes can be short or long, subtle or dramatic, depending on how far down you insert your hook.
The Spiked Single Crochet stitch (SpSc) is one of the most beginner-friendly spike stitch variations, making it a popular choice for garments, scarves, and textured accessories.
About This Tutorial
For the photos shown in this tutorial, the Spiked Single Crochet stitch is worked over a base of moss stitch (single crochet, chain 1, skip 1). However, this stitch can be worked over any stitch pattern, including plain single crochet, half double crochet, or other textured stitches.
How to Crochet the Spiked Single Crochet Stitch
Step 1:
Insert your hook one row below your current stitch.
Yarn over and draw up a loop, pulling it up to the height of a normal single crochet.
(See Figure 1)
Step 2:
Yarn over and draw through both loops on your hook.
You have now completed one Spiked Single Crochet stitch.
(See Figure 2)
Step 3:
Continue working the remaining stitches in your pattern as instructed.
(See Figure 3)
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Tips for Crocheting the Spike Single Crochet Stitch
- Watch your tension.
Pulling the spike too tightly or keeping it too short can cause the fabric to pucker and may affect your gauge. - Match the stitch height.
Always pull your loop up to the same height as the surrounding stitches for a clean, even look. - Let it stand out.
The spike stitch works best when paired with simpler stitches that allow the texture to shine.
Where to Use the Spiked Single Crochet Stitch
The Spiked Single Crochet stitch is a versatile texture that works especially well in:
- Scarves and wraps
- Crochet garments
- Panels or borders
- Projects where you want subtle texture without bulk
This stitch is used in the Blessed Bluebird Sweater Scarf, where it adds soft texture and visual interest without overpowering the design. It pairs beautifully with simple stitches and hand-dyed yarns, allowing the colour and texture to work together.
FAQ: Spiked Single Crochet & Spike Stitch Crochet
Yes. If you’re comfortable with basic single crochet, you can absolutely crochet the spiked single crochet stitch. The technique is simple and only requires inserting your hook into a row below instead of the current row.
In this tutorial, the spiked single crochet is worked one row below the current row. However, spike stitches can be worked two or more rows down for a longer, more dramatic effect.
This usually happens when the stitch is worked too tightly or the loop is not pulled up to the correct height. Make sure your loop is the same height as your surrounding stitches to keep the fabric relaxed and even.
Absolutely. The spiked single crochet stitch works well in garments when paired with simple stitches. It adds texture without too much bulk, which is why it’s used in the Blessed Bluebird Sweater Scarf.
The Spiked Single Crochet stitch is a simple way to add texture and interest to your crochet projects without complicated techniques. Once you’re comfortable with inserting your hook into a lower row and managing your tension, this spike stitch crochet technique becomes easy to incorporate into all kinds of designs. If you’d like to see this stitch in action, it’s featured in the Blessed Bluebird Sweater Scarf, where it adds subtle detail while letting the yarn and overall design shine.
