Crochet Shell Counter
Count shell groups and repeats.
How Crochet Shell Counter Works?
The Crochet Shell Counter works by counting Shells Worked across a row toward the Target Shells total. A shell is a group of tall stitches, often 5 dc, worked into one stitch or space.
Set the shell target
Press → to set Target Shells for the row.
Tap per shell
Tap the count pad or press Space after each finished shell.
Check symmetry
Borders need the same shell count on each side.
Reset per row
Press Reset Count before the next shell row.
Crochet Shell Counter Formula
The Crochet Shell Counter formula is shells per row = (foundation chain − edge chains) ÷ shell multiple. Classic 5-dc shells use a multiple of 6 + 1.
- Shells per row
Shells = (ch − e) ÷ mch is the foundation chain, e is edge chains and m is the shell multiple.
- Stitches per row
Sts = shells × 5 + spacersSpacer sc stitches sit between shells.
- Border shells
Shells = edge stitches ÷ mUse the edge stitch count of the blanket border.
Worked example: A foundation chain of 61 in a multiple of 6 + 1 holds (61 − 1) ÷ 6 = 10 shells per row.
Crochet Shell Counter Conversion Table
The Crochet Shell Counter conversion table lists 5 shell types with stitches per shell and the chain multiple.
| Shell | Stitches | Multiple | Width (worsted) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-dc shell | 3 dc | 4 + 1 | 0.75 in (1.9 cm) |
| 5-dc shell | 5 dc | 6 + 1 | 1.25 in (3.2 cm) |
| 7-dc shell | 7 dc | 8 + 1 | 1.75 in (4.4 cm) |
| V-stitch | dc, ch 1, dc | 3 + 1 | 0.6 in (1.5 cm) |
| Fan (dc, ch 1 ×3, dc) | 4 dc + 3 ch | 8 + 1 | 1.5 in (3.8 cm) |
Widths are estimates for a 5 mm (H-8) hook.
What is Crochet Shell Counter?
A Crochet Shell Counter is a counter that counts shell groups across rows and borders. Shells make scalloped edges, lacy tops and textured blankets.
Scallops show uneven spacing at once, so each side of a border needs the same shell count. Counting shells keeps the edges symmetrical.
The Stitches Counter tool saves the shell count and target in your browser.
What are the uses of Crochet Shell Counter?
There are 4 main uses of the Crochet Shell Counter, including blanket borders, shawls and baby blankets.
Blanket borders
Count shells along each side.
Shawls
Count shells in lace shawl rows.
Baby blankets
Work shell stitch blankets.
Tops
Count shells in summer tops.
About the Crochet Shell Counter
Count decorative fan and shell stitch groupings across borders and lace garments to keep scallop edges completely symmetrical.
How to Use This Tool Efficiently
- ✓Count the center anchor stitch of each shell to verify even foundation spacing.
- ✓Ensure your final row ends with a full balanced scallop at the corner.
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