Spike stitch is often used in combination with regular single crochet stitches within a row. For example, you might work three single crochet, then a spike stitch and repeat that pattern across the row. This is a common choice for creating an easy spike stitch edging on a project. Spike stitch can also be used to create a design by playing with different heights of the stitch within the same row. Spike stitch worked one row down, then the next worked two rows down and the next three rows down is an example of this. We’ll look more closely at these options but what you should know as we begin is that all of these variations on how it is worked are worked the same way; only the placement of the stitch (where you insert the hook to begin) is different from option to option. Finally, this stitch is crocheted, but it bears some resemblance to the embroidered blanket stitch. If you’d like to do a crocheted version of the blanket stitch instead of embroidering it to create a detailed design on a project, this stitch is one possible substitute. Begin by making a few regular single crochet stitches across the row. In this tutorial, we’ll alternate 3 dc and then one spike stitch, so go ahead and make three single crochet stitches to start this row. Note that the spot might be slightly to the left or right, rather than directly below, where you would insert the hook for single crochet. This is because most people crochet with stitches that lean slightly, and this gets exaggerated as you turn the fabric in each row so that every other row is slightly tilted. Look to the rows above and below to find the right spot or count over the correct number of stitches from the edge before inserting your crochet hook or spike stitch.
