How to Crochet the brioche stitch
If you’ve ever wanted crochet to look a little more like knitting, the brioche crochet stitch is a dream come true. It makes the perfect crochet ribbing that is stretchy, thick, squishy, and bouncy — the kind of ribbed texture you just want to squeeze. Great for Scarves, bags and bag handles,headbands, cuffs and trims. Prefer to watch or read? There’s a video up next, and the written steps are right underneath.
A word of advice, this stitch can feel a little strange to crochet at first because it’s a cross between a slip stitch and a half double crochet. Until you get used to it you’ll be inclined to revert back to one of those. Just keep at it and after a little while your hands will get used to this new stitch – it’s totally worth it for the results.
Stitch Key
- ch — chain
- yo — yarn over
- sl st — slip stitch
- sc — single crochet
- st(s) — stitch(es)
- BLO — back loop only
Written Instructions
Foundation (Row 1 — into back bumps)
Ch any number. For each ch across: yo, insert hook in back bump, yo, pull up loop (3 loops). Without yo, pull first loop through other 2. Work to end; Ch1 turn.
One-Row Repeat (Reversible Rib)
From here on, work every row in BLO as above. yo, insert hook in back loop only, yo, pull up loop (3 loops). Without yo, pull first loop through other 2. Work to end; Ch1 turn. Repeat for a double-sided rib.
Variations
Brioche + slip stitch; Brioche + single crochet.
You can alternate each row of the stitch with a row of slip stitches or a row of single crochet. This will give a single sided fabric but it’s faster to crochet. Use slip stitch if you want the knit look ribs to be closer together and single crochet if you want them a little spaced out.
In the Round
Join chain, brioche BLO around. Join or spiral.
Increases & Decreases
Inc: 2 brioche in same BLO. Dec: under two BLOs together.
Tips & Troubleshooting
This stitch tends to get tight — I suggest using a larger hook than you normally would for the yarn weight. Try to keep loops even. The stitch works great in both a plain color or gradient yarn.
✅ Planning a project? Use the yarn calculator to estimate how much yarn you’ll need.
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