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Crochet Fan Stitches: Techniques, Variations, & Tips

Fan stitches are a versatile and popular crochet technique, adding texture and beauty to many designs. In this article, Charlotte Lee guides us through the fundamentals of creating fan stitches, including step-by-step instructions, common variations, and tips for how to use them in your next project. Whether you’re a beginner curious about the basics or an experienced crocheter looking to expand your repertoire, this guide will help you understand how fan stitches work and how to adapt them for your next project.

Watch the video or read the written instructions below!

Chapters

  • Basic Fan Stitch 00:00
  • Fan Stitch Variations 03:39
  • Fan Stitch in Patterns 09:14

You can use the “Chapters” feature on the video player to quickly navigate to any section you want!

Materials & Tools Shown

More about Charlotte Lee 

Basic Fan Stitches

To begin, Charlotte starts with five single crochet stitches (SC 5) to create a clean foundation away from the project’s edges. This step helps ensure your work looks tidy and balanced.

Charlotte begins with five single crochet stitches (SC5) to create a neat foundation away from the edges.
Charlotte begins with five single crochet stitches (SC 5) to create a neat foundation away from the edges.

When reading a pattern, you likely won’t see the phrase “make a fan stitch.” Instead, patterns will list the individual stitches needed to create the fan. In our example, we’ll use double crochet (DC) stitches. To help the fan lay nicely, most patterns include at least one skip stitch (SK) at the beginning. If you’re unfamiliar with skipping stitches, check out the guide What Does ‘Skip’ Mean in Crochet and How to Do It! for a quick explanation.

For our example, Charlotte will skip two stitches (SK 2) and then make five double-crochet stitches (DC 5) into the same stitch, forming the distinctive dome-like or fan-shaped structure

Here, you can see five double crochets (DC) worked into a single stitch, next to the two skipped stitches (SK2).
Here, you can see five double crochets (DC) worked into a single stitch, next to the two skipped stitches (SK2).

After that, she skips another two stitches (SK 2) and works five single crochet stitches (SC 5) to complete the sequence. Patterns often mirror the stitches to keep the design balanced, but always refer to your specific pattern for guidance.

a fan stitch swatch
For our example, the instructions would read: SC 5, SK 2, DC 5 into the next stitch, SK 2, SC 5.

Variations of Fan Stitches

While double crochets (DC) are commonly used, fan stitches can also feature half-double, triple, or even quadruple crochet stitches for unique textures and effects. The size of the fan can be easily customized, too; some patterns use three half-double crochets for smaller fans or seven double crochets for a more dramatic effect.

In this variation, Charlotte has worked three half-double crochets (HDC), creating a smaller and more compact fan.
In this variation, Charlotte has worked three half-double crochets (HDC), creating a smaller and more compact fan.

Another popular variation incorporates chains between the stitches, creating an open, airy look that gives the fan a rounded appearance. By experimenting with different stitch and chain combinations, you can achieve a wide range of sizes, shapes, and styles to enhance your projects.

In this example, we see five double crochets (DC) with chain stitches worked between each one, creating a large, spherical fan shape.
In this example, we see seven double crochets (DC) with chain stitches worked between each one, creating a large, spherical fan shape.

Using Fan Stitches in Patterns

In some patterns, multiple rows of fans are worked on top of each other, creating a layered effect that can resemble a rainbow or a gradual fan shape. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fan sizes, stitch types, and layering techniques. These variations allow you to make your own unique creations, adapting the fan stitch to suit any crochet project or designer preference.

complete fan sampler
Here is the finished swatch featuring all three fan examples. We’d love for you to give it a try yourself!

Need More Help?

Do you have questions about crochet fan stitches? If you’re an All-Access School of SweetGeorgia (SOS) member, join us in our Community Forums! One of the great perks of being an All-Access member is the opportunity to ask Charlotte Lee questions about their articles and courses and connect with fellow members.

Not yet a member of the School? We would love for you to join in the fun and see what it is all about! Use the code: EXPLORE15 to save 15% on a monthly All-Access SOS membership.

You’re also welcome to join us on the SweetGeorgia Yarns Discord server. Our community has discussion threads on knitting, spinning, weaving, crocheting, dyeing, and much more. Feel free to start a conversation, get inspiration from fellow SweetGeorgia Yarns members and ask any questions you may have. 

Together, we share, learn, and grow as a community. We would be happy to have you join us!

Original publication: November 30th, 2021; Refreshed: March 29th, 2025  

The post Crochet Fan Stitches: Techniques, Variations, & Tips appeared first on SweetGeorgia Yarns.



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