I love working in linked stitches!
I hear people at times state that they find crochet when using stitches like double crochet (US), to be too open. You get that little gap between the stitches and this is not suitable for many projects/
A linked stitch eliminates that gap and creates a dense appearance to the work.
So what are linked stitches, anyway?
They’re basically a variation of your taller stitches—like half double crochet, double crochet, treble, and so on—but instead of starting each one with a yarn over like usual, you "link" it into the previous stitch. It’s a small change, but it totally transforms the fabric.
Why I love them (and you might too):
✨ No More Gaps
One of the biggest complaints about tall stitches (especially double crochet and taller) is that they can look a bit holey. This might be fine for lacy projects, but if you’re aiming for warmth, structure, or a more knit-like look, those gaps can be a pain.
✨ A Dense appearance and really neat
Linked stitches give you a dense, almost knit-like texture, which is especially great in designs like the Checkerboard Symphony Scarf. They help stitches sit straighter and behave better (we all want well-behaved stitches, right?).
✨ They're Not Hard, Promise
If you’re comfy with a regular double crochet, you’re already 90% of the way there. The only new trick is that you’re inserting your hook into a little horizontal bar from the stitch before. It feels weird for about two stitches, then it clicks.
✨ when to use them
When you want a warmer, denser fabric (winter scarves)
If you’re looking for a more knit-like finish but don’t want to actually turn to the dark side and KNIT
To stop tall stitches from leaning all over the place
Anywhere you’d usually use a double or treble (US) crochet, but want it to look a bit neater.
✨ They really are easy
Next time you’re working on something with tall stitches, try swapping in linked ones for a few rows and see what you think. I’d recommend checking out the Grandma Bed Scarf if you want something simple and sentimental to practise with, or the Checkerboard Symphony Scarf if you’re in the mood for a bit more drama and some colour work
They can be addictive. You’ll be wondering why they’re not more commonly used.
✨ what to use them on
Blankets and scarves where warmth and structure are a priority
Garments where you want a sleeker, more knit-like finish
Bags and baskets that need to stand up on their own
For a photo tutorial on how to create a linked double crochet (click here).