The spike stitch is a clever way to add bold vertical lines, colour pops and texture to your crochet — by simply dropping your hook down into a row below. It looks intricate but uses only the single crochet you already know.
What is the spike stitch?
A spike is an elongated stitch that reaches down past the current row into the fabric below, laying a vertical line across the rows underneath. Worked in a contrasting colour, spikes create striking geometric and pixel-style patterns; in one colour, they add subtle texture. They're especially popular for blankets, bags and colourwork. You only need to know the single crochet.
How to crochet the spike stitch (step by step)
- Work your row in single crochet to where the spike should go.
- Instead of inserting your hook into the next stitch, insert it down into the stitch one (or more) rows below, directly under the next stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop, bringing it up loosely to the height of your current row so it doesn't pucker the fabric.
- Yarn over and pull through both loops to finish the single crochet — that's one spike.
- Continue across, placing spikes wherever the pattern shows. Spikes can reach down 1, 2 or 3 rows for longer lines.
Tips for tidy spikes
- Pull the long loop up loosely so the fabric stays flat — too tight and it will pucker.
- Work the spike directly below the stitch you'd normally use, so your stitch count stays correct.
- Spikes look fantastic in a contrasting colour for crisp lines.
- Count your stitches each row — the spike still counts as one stitch.
What to make with the spike stitch
Spikes shine in colourwork blankets, bags, cushions, potholders and geometric designs. They're a favourite for adding pixel-art motifs and bold stripes without complicated colour changes.
Add bold lines
Try the spike stitch on a colourful make. Browse our beginner patterns or grab a free pattern.
Browse all patterns →Frequently asked questions
What is a spike stitch in crochet?
A spike stitch is a single crochet worked down into a stitch one or more rows below the current row, pulling up a tall loop so it lays a vertical "spike" over the surface.
Is the spike stitch hard?
No. If you can single crochet, you can make a spike stitch — you simply insert your hook lower and pull the loop up loosely.
Why does my spike stitch pucker?
The long loop is too tight. Pull it up loosely to the height of your current row so the fabric stays flat.
What can I make with the spike stitch?
Spike stitch is great for colourwork blankets, bags, cushions, potholders and geometric or pixel-style designs.
Want more texture? Try the popcorn and waffle stitches, or learn the basics in our complete beginner's guide.
