Step by step crochet: Cluster stitch illustrations

Different types of cluster stitch are in the same family as puffs, bobbles and decreases in crochet and are worked in a very similar way. Learn how do do them with our illustrated guide.

A cluster stitch is just as it sounds; several stitches clumped together to form texture in a project as you work. Much the same as you do with bobbles and decreases, these type of stitches require you to work several stitches before joining them all together.

This is done by not completing the final wrap of each stitch. Once you have worked the number of 'incomplete' stitches stated, you then take the yarn round the hook and pull the yarn through all the loops on the hook to gather the stitches together at the top.

This method can be used to join two stitches to make a decrease or to gather three or more stitches into a cluster. Just as is done around the centre of the Dreamcatcher Crochet Pattern.

Clusters are usually abbreviated as cl, however most patterns would not expect you to decipher this instruction without more thorough instructions.

Always check your abbreviations for a list of what each abbreviation is specifically asking, where cluster stitches have several variations.

The above clusters add a leaf detail to the pattern and are made up of 3 sets of 3 double treble clusters (3dtrcl). And most importantly, always check to ascertain whether or not you are working with UK abbreviations; US versions may be written the same, but differ significantly. We always use UK abbreviations.

How to make a double treble cluster (dtr cl)

1. * Yarn round the hook twice, insert the hook in the next stitch (or in this case, space) pull the yarn through then [yarn round hook and pull the yarn through the first two loops] twice; repeat from * twice more, making four loops on the hook.

     2. Yarn round hook and pull the yarn through all four loops to complete the double treble cluster.

This method of not completing the last wrap and then working all the stitches together can also be applied to other stitches e.g. trebles.

Cluster stitches are used to create complex patterns in among the chain stitches and other stitches in our Table Mat, Coaster And Runner Crochet Pattern set.