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If you love crochet stitches with plenty of texture, the Wheat Stitch is definitely one to add to your list. It has a beautiful woven look that almost resembles little braided stalks of wheat running across the fabric. The finished texture looks much more complicated than it actually is, which makes this stitch especially fun to work.
The Wheat Stitch is also known as Espiga de Trigo in Portuguese. It is made by crossing front post double crochet stitches, creating the raised V-shaped details that give the stitch its distinctive appearance.
I especially like this stitch for projects where you want the texture to be the main feature. It works beautifully in blankets, scarves, cowls, cushions, and other cozy accessories. Once you get the hang of crossing the stitches, the pattern becomes quite rhythmic, so it is an enjoyable one to crochet while relaxing.
Below you’ll find the written pattern, abbreviations, yarn and hook suggestions, and a few ideas for projects you can make with this pretty stitch.
Wheat Stitch Crochet Pattern
Pattern Type: Textured crochet stitch
Skill Level: Easy to Intermediate
Crochet Terms: US Terms
Stitch Repeat: Even number of stitches + 2
Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- dc – double crochet
- fpdc – front post double crochet
- sk – skip
- st/sts – stitch/stitches
How to Crochet the Wheat Stitch
Foundation Chain
Chain an even number of stitches, then add 2 more chains for the turning chain.
For example, you could start with 22 chains, 32 chains, 42 chains, and so on, depending on the size of your project.
Row 1
Work 1 dc into the 3rd chain from the hook.
Continue working 1 dc into each chain across the row.
Turn your work.
Row 2
Chain 2. The turning chain counts as the first double crochet.
Skip the next stitch.
Work 1 fpdc around the next stitch.
Then work 1 fpdc around the stitch you skipped.
Repeat this crossed-stitch sequence across the row.
Finish with 1 dc in the final stitch.
Turn.
Repeat
Continue repeating Row 2 until your piece reaches the desired length.
The crossed front post double crochets are what create the raised, braided pattern that gives this stitch its wheat-like appearance.
A Tip for Getting the Best Texture
The first few crossed stitches may feel a little awkward, especially if you haven’t worked crossed front post stitches before. Take your time and make sure you are working around the correct stitch.
Try not to pull your stitches too tightly. A relaxed, even tension makes it much easier to insert the hook around the posts and also allows the raised texture to stand out nicely.
Once you have worked a few rows, the movement becomes much more natural.
Yarn and Hook Suggestions
A yarn with good stitch definition is ideal for the Wheat Stitch because you want those raised crossed stitches to remain visible.
For a medium-weight project, you can try:
- I Love This Yarn! by Hobby Lobby
- Stylecraft Special Aran
- Red Heart Soft
- Círculo Barroco Maxcolor
A medium worsted-weight yarn (Weight 4) is a great place to start.
For the hook, a 5.0 mm (H-8) crochet hook works well with many worsted-weight yarns. However, always check the yarn label and adjust your hook size if necessary.
Earthy colors, warm neutrals, creams, taupes, greens, and subtle variegated yarns can look particularly lovely with this stitch because they allow the texture to take center stage.
What Can You Make With the Wheat Stitch?
This is one of those crochet stitches that can be used in many different ways. You don’t have to stick with just one type of project.
Crochet Blankets
The Wheat Stitch would make a gorgeous textured blanket. You can keep the entire blanket in one color for a simple, classic look or alternate colors every few rows for a more noticeable pattern.
Scarves and Cowls
Because the stitch creates a thick, textured fabric, it works especially well for cozy scarves and winter cowls. Choose a soft yarn and you’ll have a warm accessory with plenty of handmade character.
Crochet Cushions
A Wheat Stitch cushion cover can add a lovely textured detail to a sofa, chair, or bed. Neutral yarn colors are especially nice for home decor.
Handmade Gifts
If you’re looking for a crochet gift that looks special without requiring an extremely complicated pattern, this stitch is a great option. A scarf, small blanket, or cushion made with the Wheat Stitch would make a thoughtful handmade present.
Why You’ll Love This Stitch
The Wheat Stitch has a wonderful combination of texture and simplicity. At first glance, the crossed stitches may make the pattern look complicated, but once you understand where to place your hook, the same movement is repeated throughout the row.
That’s what makes it so satisfying to crochet. After the first few rows, you can settle into the rhythm and watch the little braided shapes build across your work.
It is also a great stitch to keep in your crochet collection when you want something a little different from the usual basic stitches.
Final Thoughts
The Wheat Stitch is a beautiful choice when you want to add dimension and texture to a crochet project without using an overly complicated stitch pattern.
The crossed front post double crochets create a raised, woven effect that gives blankets, scarves, cowls, and home accessories a cozy handmade look. Try it in a soft neutral for a classic style, or experiment with your favorite colors to create something completely your own.
Once you’ve made a few rows, you’ll probably find that the pattern becomes much easier than it looks. So grab your favorite yarn and hook and give the Wheat Stitch a try—you may just find yourself using it for your next project.
