This is a classic ripple-chevron design using shell/fan stitches. The pattern below recreates the look from your image in a beginner-friendly way.
Materials
- Worsted weight yarn (multiple colors optional)
- Crochet hook: 5 mm (H/8)
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
Abbreviations
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- sk = skip
- st = stitch
- rep = repeat
- shell = 5 dc in same stitch
Foundation Chain
Chain in multiples of 14 + 3
Example:
- Small swatch: 31 chains
- Baby blanket: 143 chains
- Throw blanket: 171 chains
Row 1
- Dc in 4th ch from hook.
- Dc in next 4 ch.
- (Dc3tog over next 3 ch) → valley decrease.
- Dc in next 5 ch.
- 3 dc in next ch → peak increase.
- Dc in next 5 ch.
Repeat steps 3–6 across row.
Turn.
Row 2
Ch 3 (counts as dc).
- Dc in next 4 sts.
- Dc3tog over next 3 sts.
- Dc in next 5 sts.
- 3 dc in next st.
- Dc in next 5 sts.
Repeat across.
Turn.
Fan Ripple Texture Row
Ch 3.
- Work shell (5 dc) in center peak stitch.
- Skip 2 sts.
- Sc in next st.
- Skip 2 sts.
- Shell in next st.
Continue across, placing:
- shells on peaks,
- sc near valleys.
Turn.
Repeat Pattern
Alternate:
- 2 ripple rows
- 1 fan/shell texture row
Repeat until desired length.
PDF DOWNLOAD FREE: Vintage Fan Ripple Stitch
Color Changes
For the rainbow effect:
- Change color every 2 rows
- Fasten off previous yarn
- Join new color at row edge
Suggested palette:
- Pink
- Lavender
- Sky blue
- Mint green
- Soft yellow
- Orange
Tips
- Keep tension loose for soft waves.
- Blocking helps define the ripple shape.
- Cotton yarn gives sharper stitch definition; acrylic gives softer drape.
