If you love the classic wavy look in crochet — the peaks, valleys, and gentle swoops — then the ripple stitch is for you! It’s one of crochet’s most iconic patterns, perfect for blankets, scarves, shawls, and home décor. Even better? It’s easy to learn once you understand how the increases and decreases form the “ripples.”

This tutorial will walk you through how to crochet the ripple stitch step‑by‑step, with clear instructions and tips to keep you confident from your first peak to your last valley.

What You’ll Need

Before we jump in:

• Yarn (worsted weight is ideal for your first ripple)
  
  

• Crochet hook sized for your yarn
  
  

• Scissors
  
  

• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
  
  

• Optional: stitch markers to mark your peak and valley points
  
  

Terms & Abbreviations (US Crochet Terms)

• ch = chain
  
  

• dc = double crochet
  
  

• st(s) = stitch(es)
  
  

• sk = skip
  
  

• inc = increase (usually 2 dc in the same stitch)
  
  

• dec = decrease (dc two or more stitches together)
  
  

How the Ripple Stitch Works

The signature ripple shape comes from strategic combinations of:

• Increases — to raise the stitch count and form the tops of the waves
  
  

• Decreases — to lower the stitch count and form the dips
  
  

• Straight stitches — along the slopes between increases and decreases

By repeating these in a pattern across each row, you get that lovely zigzag effect.

Step‑by‑Step Ripple Stitch Pattern

Here’s a classic ripple pattern that gives you nice, even waves. It’s worked over a multiple of 14 stitches + 2 (for turning chains).

Step 1 — Foundation Chain

Chain any multiple of 12 plus 3.
Example: ch 51 (Picture below: 48 + 3)

Step 2 — Row 1 (Foundation Row)

1. Dc in the 4th chain from the hook. (ch 3 will be used as a stitch later!)
   
   

2. Dc in the next 3 chains.
   
   

3. Decrease (dc2tog) over the next 4 chains.
   
   

4. Dc in the next 3 chains.
   
   

5. Increase: 2 dc in the next 2 chains.
   
   

6. Repeat across.
   
   

7. Dc in the next 3 chains.

This makes your first peak and valley — yay!

Step 3 — Repeat Rows 2 & Onward

For every row after Row 1:

1. Ch 3 (counts as a stitch in next row), turn.
   
   

2. Dc in the 1st chain from the hook. (ch 3 will be used as a stitch later!)
   
   

3. Dc in the next 3 stitches.
   
   

4. Decrease (dc2tog) over the next 4 stitches.
   
   

5. Dc in the next 3 chains.
   
   

6. Increase: 2 dc in the next 2 stitches.
   
   

7. Repeat across.
   
   

8. After you do the final 3 dc, you will do two dc in the last stitch (ch 3 space).

Repeat this row until your ripple piece reaches the length you want.

What’s Happening in the Stitch

• Peaks = where you work 2 dc in the same stitch
  
  

• Valleys = where you work a decrease (dc2tog)
  
  

• Slopes = where you simply work one dc in each stitch
  
  

This combination causes your fabric to rise and fall — creating those beautiful waves!

Tips for Smooth Ripples

• Keep your turning chains consistent — they affect how your edge looks.

• Use stitch markers at your peaks/valleys until you memorize the pattern.

• Try color changes by row for striking striped ripple blankets.

• If your ripples feel tight or stiff, go one hook size up for an airier fabric.

Project Ideas with the Ripple Stitch

The ripple stitch is a crowd‑pleaser in lots of projects:

• Ripple scarves with long flowing waves
  
  

• Chevron blankets & throws
  
  

• Baby blankets (stripe these for extra cuteness)
  
  

• Ripple tote panels for boho bags
  
  

• Home décor like pillow covers or table runners

It’s versatile, relaxing to crochet, and looks so impressive when finished.

Final Stitch

Now that you know how to crochet the ripple stitch, you’ve unlocked one of the most classic, timeless crochet patterns around! With just a few increases and decreases, you can create stunning waves across your fabric — perfect for cozy blankets, stylish accessories, and so much more.

Wave hello to your next project!