Easy Crochet Pillowcase Edging: A Simple Shell Stitch Tutorial

Updated at: 14/05/2025

Add a touch of handmade charm to your bedroom with this easy crochet pillowcase edging tutorial! Learning to crochet a beautiful border can instantly elevate even the simplest pillowcase, transforming it from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter looking for a quick and satisfying project or a beginner eager to try a simple yet elegant stitch, this tutorial is perfect for you. This simple shell stitch is surprisingly versatile and adds a lovely, textured finish that's both classic and modern.

We'll be using a basic shell stitch to create a delicate yet durable edging that will beautifully frame your pillowcase. This tutorial offers a clear and concise guide, perfect for all skill levels. Get ready to transform your plain pillowcases into cozy, handcrafted treasures! Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and begin crocheting your stunning new pillowcase edging.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • crochet hook
  • yarn
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors to cut your yarn. Blunt scissors can cause fraying and make it harder to weave in your ends.
  • Always count your stitches carefully, especially when working in rows. An incorrect stitch count can affect the overall look and fit of your edging.
  • If using a hook size different from the pattern, test your tension first on a swatch to avoid unexpected size changes in your finished edging.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Foundation Chain

    • Make a slip knot with your crochet hook and chain a number of chains to match the width of your pillowcase, plus three extra chains for the turning chain.

  2. First Row: Creating the Shell Stitch

    • Double crochet into the fourth chain from your hook (the first three chains count as one double crochet).
    • Make two more double crochets into the same stitch (total of three double crochets).
    • Chain one, then make three more double crochets into the same stitch (This creates one shell).
    • Single crochet in the next chain stitch.
    Single crochet in the next chain stitch.Single crochet in the next chain stitch.Single crochet in the next chain stitch.Single crochet in the next chain stitch.
    First Row: Creating the Shell Stitch
    • Repeat steps 3-5 across the entire width of your foundation chain.
    • Ensure you end with a single crochet in the last stitch to keep the edges straight. Turn your work and chain three.
    Ensure you end with a single crochet in the last stitch to keep the edges straight. Turn your work and chain three.Ensure you end with a single crochet in the last stitch to keep the edges straight. Turn your work and chain three.
    First Row: Creating the Shell Stitch

  3. Subsequent Rows: Repeating the Shell Stitch Pattern

    • Double crochet in the chain space formed by the crochet shell. Chain three and attach this chain to the single crochet from the previous row.
    • For a lacier effect, chain four instead of three between single crochets and double crochets.
    • Continue this pattern of chaining (three or four) and placing a double crochet in the chain space of the shell, then chaining and placing a single crochet where the single crochet was on the previous row, skipping the double crochets within the shells.
    • At the end of the row, chain three and attach it with a single crochet to the last double crochet in the shell from the previous row.
    At the end of the row, chain three and attach it with a single crochet to the last double crochet in the shell from the previous row.At the end of the row, chain three and attach it with a single crochet to the last double crochet in the shell from the previous row.At the end of the row, chain three and attach it with a single crochet to the last double crochet in the shell from the previous row.
    Subsequent Rows: Repeating the Shell Stitch Pattern

Read more: Easy Color Block Crochet Blanket Tutorial for Beginners

Tips

  • Adjust the number of chains between shells to achieve your desired lacy effect.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Uneven tension throughout the stitches leads to a wavy or bumpy edging.
Solution: Maintain a consistent, gentle tension while working each stitch.

2. Incorrect Shell Stitch Count

Reason: Miscounting the number of double crochets in each shell creates an uneven or distorted pattern.
Solution: Carefully count the double crochets in each shell and double-check your work regularly.

3. Skipping or Adding Stitches

Reason: Accidentally skipping or adding stitches throws off the entire pattern and causes noticeable gaps or bunching.
Solution: Use stitch markers to track your progress and ensure you're working the correct number of stitches in each row.

FAQs

What type of yarn is best for crocheting a pillowcase edging?
A medium-weight yarn (worsted weight or #4) is ideal for a pillowcase edging. It creates a nice, sturdy border without being too bulky or too thin. Cotton or cotton blends are popular choices as they are durable and easy to care for.
How do I determine the correct number of starting chains for my pillowcase edging?
Measure the perimeter of your pillowcase. Then, chain a number of stitches that is roughly equal to that measurement. It's better to slightly overestimate, as you can always slip a few stitches off at the end if needed. Try crocheting a small sample to check your gauge (stitches per inch) to refine your chain count if needed.
What if my edging doesn't fit my pillowcase perfectly?
Don't worry! Slight variations are normal. If your edging is a bit too large, you can gently block it (lightly dampen and pin it to the desired size before letting it dry). If it's slightly small, try adding a few extra chains at the beginning next time. Alternatively, you can adjust the tension of your crochet to achieve a better fit.