Today I am launching a series to help you learn a new crochet stitch each week. I decided to start with one of my favorite stitches, the iris stitch. When I was pregnant with my son, I decided he needed a handmade baby blanket. I was worried about his ability to breath if he pulled it over his head so I chose this crochet stitch because it was the perfect combination of an open stitch that allows for breathing but also tight enough to keep him warm. Although, as a July baby I wasn't quite as concerned about the latter.

However, as I worked the blanket up, I became instantly obsessed. It is interesting enough that I didn't get bored and easy enough that I knocked out a whole baby blanket in two days. I choose to do a bumblebee pattern because I was going through a bee phase. I alternated large stripes of black and yellow. While most of us know the challenges black yarn can pose, I still found this particular crochet stitch to be a very manageable option.

I would consider the iris stitch a practiced beginner sort of stitch. If you've mastered that double crochet you should be fine. I could see someone struggling to keep the edges straight though. Be mindful of this potential challenge and you should enjoy it!

The Iris Stitch

Level: Beginner/Intermediate

How to do the Iris stitch

Foundation Row Count: Multiples of 4+1 plus 2 additional stitches for your foundation.

(e.i. 20 stitches, + 1 + 2 so 23 chains to start)

Row 1: in 5th ch from hook *(2dc, ch1, 2dc) skip 3ch repeat from * until last 2ch. Skip 1ch, 1dc in last ch. Turn.

Row 2: ch3 skip first 3 dc, *(2dc, ch1, 2dc) in ch 1 space, skip 4dc, repeat from * to last 2 dc. Dc in ch3 sp.

Subsequent rows: repeat row 2

Further tips for beginners:

If you are confused at all by the written instructions, don't overthink it. You are essentially working a shell pattern directly on top of another shell. 2dc, ch1, 2dc, worked in every ch1 space. Don't try to finagle your hook into a stitch. Place the hook under the chain, not in it. Same goes for keeping your edges square when working your last double crochet. Insert your hook in the huge space left by the chain 3 that started the previous row. Please comment if any other part has you confused and I will try to help you work it out.

If you are interested, the yarn I used for the sample is my fingering/sock weight base. This colorway is one of the colors available in the 'Cherry Blossom Set' which can be found here: Cherry Blossom Set

I crocheted this sample using an 4.0mm or G sized hook. A larger hook than recommended will create a more open looking stitch that could be fitting for a shawl or any project that you want to have a lighter, lacier feel. A smaller hook will tighten up the look of the stitches and might be a suitable option for something warmer.