This stitch is perfect for both beginner and intermediate crocheters looking to expand their stitch repertoire while incorporating a bit of color play into their work. Follow along with this tutorial and watch how the beautiful color transitions and stitch details come to life. Let’s dive into the materials and pattern instructions!
Materials:
Black yarn, white yarn, light gray yarn, and charcoal gray yarn (I used worsted weight yarn for this project).
Crochet hook: Use a hook that matches your yarn weight. I used an H 5mm hook.
Pro Tip: Experiment with different color variations! The key is to use four shades of a color, ranging from light to dark. This will help the pattern really pop and give it a gradient effect.
Abbreviations:
- Ch: chain
- Sc: single crochet
- Dc: double crochet
- Rep: repeat
- Sk: skip
- St(s): stitch(es)
- T: turn
- Spk Dc: spike double crochet
Written Pattern
Foundation: Ch a multiple of 3 + 2. For this example, I chained 21 + 2.
Row 1: Dc in the 3rd Ch from the hook and in the next 2 stitches.
Ch 3, sk 3, Dc in the next 3 sts, Ch 3, sk 3. Rep from * to the end of the row, Ch 2, t.
***Color changes to light gray.
Row 2: Ch 3 (to skip over the first cluster).
Spk Dc in the next 3 stitches (work these stitches into the foundation chain).
Ch 3, sk 3, spk Dc in the next 3 sts, Ch 3, sk 3. Rep from * to the end, Ch 2, t.
Color changes to charcoal gray.
Row 3: Spk Dc in the next 3 stitches (working into Row 1).
Ch 3, sk 3, spk Dc in the next 3 sts, Ch 3, sk 3. Rep across, Ch 2, t.
Color changes to white.
Repeat Row 2: Color change to black.
Repeat Row 3: Continue to repeat the sequence from *** for as long as you like to achieve the desired length of your fabric.
Final Row:
When you’ve reached your desired length, the final row will close the gaps that the Ch 3 sections leave. Instead of chaining 3 and skipping 3 stitches as usual:
Work Sc into the next 3 stitches where you would normally chain and skip. This will create a more solid and finished edge.
Access more free patterns here
Pattern Variations:
The Boucan stitch is highly customizable! Try switching the shades of color, or use a different number of colors for a more striking effect. You could even try this pattern using just one or two colors for a more subtle but equally gorgeous look.
The Boucan stitch pattern is perfect for projects like afghans, scarves, or any item where you want a blend of texture and color. This combination of double crochet clusters and spike stitches creates a design that’s both fun to make and beautiful to display. Whether you’re looking to create a gift or a piece for yourself, the Boucan pattern will surely be a hit!
Happy Crocheting!