The single crochet cross stitch is a fun textured variation that creates little X shapes across your fabric. It is made by working single crochets slightly out of order so they cross over one another — simple to do, and so satisfying to watch appear.
This stitch gives a dense, woven, textured fabric that is lovely for washcloths, potholders, bags, and cozy accessories.
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Before You Begin
- This tutorial uses US crochet terminology
- I recommend a stitch marker in the first and last stitch of each row to keep your count
- I prefer to work in the back bumps of the foundation chain for a cleaner edge
- This post contains affiliate links — see the disclaimer at the top of this page
- If your stitches feel tight, go up a hook size
What You’ll Need
Hook and Notions
Yarn
- Any weight — worsted weight (#4) shown in tutorial for clarity
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- Ch = chain
- Sc = single crochet
- Sk = skip
- St(s) = stitch(es)
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner
Gauge
Not important for this tutorial
Stitch Multiple
An even number of stitches
Foundation Chain
Add 1 to your desired (even) stitch count
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the single crochet cross stitch hard?
Not at all! If you can single crochet, you can do this. The only new part is working two stitches slightly out of order so they cross.
What can I make with it?
It makes a dense, textured fabric that is wonderful for washcloths, dishcloths, potholders, bags, and cozy home items.
Why are my crosses hard to see?
Make sure you are working the second stitch in front of the first, and try a smooth, light-colored yarn so the texture shows. A plain row between crossed rows can also help them pop.
Single Crochet Cross Stitch Instructions
Before you begin, make a slip knot and place it on your hook.
If you can single crochet, you can do this — the only new part is working two stitches slightly out of order so they cross. (A quick note: I work the crossed stitch in front of the one just made — here is how.)
To make a single crochet cross:
- Skip the next stitch
- Single crochet into the following stitch
- Now single crochet into the stitch you skipped, working in front of the stitch you just made — this creates the crossed “X”
- Continue across in pairs of stitches
Foundation: Chain 21 (for a 20-stitch swatch)
Row 1 (RS): Sc in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. Turn. (20 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch). *Skip the next st, sc in the following st, then sc in the skipped st (working in front of the stitch just made); repeat from * across. Turn. (20 sts)
Repeat Row 2 for the crossed texture. Tip: work a plain single crochet row between crossed rows for even more definition.
You did it! You learned the Single Crochet Cross Stitch!
You did it — you learned the single crochet cross stitch! That woven, textured look adds so much interest to simple projects, and it only uses stitches you already know.
What You’ll Love About the Single Crochet Cross Stitch
- Creates a pretty woven, crossed texture
- A dense, sturdy fabric — great for washcloths and bags
- Only uses the single crochet you already know
- Adds beautiful interest to simple projects
- Works beautifully in smooth cotton yarn
Video Tutorial
Prefer to watch? Follow along with me in the step-by-step video tutorial below.
▶ Watch this tutorial on YouTube
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Common Beginner Mistakes
- Working the crossed stitch behind instead of in front of the one just made
- Losing track of your pairs of stitches
- Working too tightly — the crosses need a little room
- Losing count at the ends of rows
Practice Before Moving On
- Work several rows until the crossing motion feels natural
- Use a smooth, light-colored yarn so the texture shows
- Count your stitches at the end of every row
Put This Stitch to Work
This textured stitch is perfect for kitchen and home makes. Keep learning:
- How to Single Crochet — the base stitch this variation builds on
- Browse washcloth & dishcloth patterns — great projects for this woven texture
Engage With Us!
We would love to see how the single crochet cross stitch is working up for you! Share your progress:
- Instagram & Facebook: Tag @AmericanCrochet and use #ACMakers
- Pinterest: Save this tutorial so you can always find it again!
Looking Ahead
Brush up on the base stitch with How to Single Crochet, or explore more in the Stitch Library.
Helpful Resources
- Join our Facebook Crochet Community — pattern support, inspiration, and a warm community of makers
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Keep Learning
Ready to explore more techniques? Head back to the library: → Crochet Techniques & Stitch Library
Or start from the beginning with Crochet Fundamentals: → Crochet Fundamentals
