Learn how to crochet the mixed cluster stitch in this quick and easy tutorial, including common problems, video and photo tutorials and more.
The mixed cluster stitch is a variation of single crochet that makes a wonderfully textured fabric. Never tried this stitch before? Grab a hook and some yarn and let’s learn something new!
Common Questions about the Mixed Cluster Stitch
This stitch pattern uses a cluster stitch and single crochet to create a knot-like stitch pattern. This mix of sc and cluster sets give it its name.
This is a mixture of single crochet, a cluster stitch, and half double crochet (at the end of some rows).
This stitch pattern is a multiple of 2 sets + 1, so you will chain an odd number of stitches to begin your project.
This stitch is great for making bags! I love the texture it gives. It can also be used in blankets, garments, wash cloths, and scarves. It can be a firmer fabric, so if you are wanting some drape be sure to go larger with your hook size.
I would rate this at an intermediate level given the cluster stitch pattern. That particular stitch goes a bit beyond what a beginner might feel comfortable with.
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Mixed Cluster Stitch Video Tutorial
How to Crochet the Mixed Cluster Stitch
Stitch Descriptions and Abbreviations
Chain (ch)
Single Crochet (sc)
Half Double Crochet (hdc)
Mixed Cluster (MC): yo, insert hook into first st as indicated, yo, draw up a loop, yo, draw through 2 loops, skip 1 st, (yo, insert hook into next st, yo, draw loop through) twice all into the same stitch (6 loops on hook), yo, draw through all loops on hook.
Let’s take a look at the Mixed Cluster a little closer:
Step One: Yarn over (yo), insert hook into first st as indicated and draw up a loop.
Step Two: Yo and draw through two loops, skip one stitch, yo, insert hook in next st and draw up a loop (4 loops on hook).
Step Three: Yo, insert hook into same stitch, yo and draw up a loop (6 loops on hook).
Step Four: Yo and draw through all 6 loops on hook.
How to Crochet the Mixed Cluster Stitch
Chain an odd number of stitches.
Technically, this is a stitch multiple of 2 + 1, so you will need to chain an odd number of stitches for the stitch pattern to work out correctly.
Row 1: Sc in 2nd chain from hook and each ch across; turn.
Some instructions tell you to sc into the 3rd ch from the hook and count the skipped chains as a st, but I hate working into chains so I made my swatch start with a regular sc.
Row 2: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), MC inserting hook into first then third st, *ch 1, MC inserting hook first into same st as previous MC; repeat from * ending last repeat in top of last sc hdc in same st; turn.
This row can get confusing!! Be sure to check out the video tutorial if you have any questions about this row. This is where those cluster stitches come into play.
Row 3: Ch 1, skip first st, sc in next st and each st across, working last st into top of turning ch; turn.
This is a row of sc. You should end with the same stitch count as row 1.
Repeat rows 2-3 for pattern.
Once you get the foundation row set up, this is a simple two row repeat. It may take you a few minutes to get the hang of the cluster stitches, but once you do they are easy!
Common Problems with the Mixed Cluster Stitch
My project is turning out crooked.
This often happens when you don’t work into the turning chains properly or if you forget and work into the hdc on row 3. Both of these problems can make you end up with the wrong st count or can skew your work.
I’m losing stitches.
The most common reason for this is that you aren’t working into the ch-2 that counts as a hdc. Make sure you always work into this turning chain.
I’m gaining stitches.
This usually happens when you forget to skip the hdc that shares a space with the last MC. Make sure you skip this stitch and that you end a row of sc with the same number of sts you started with.
Whew! What a great stitch!! Today we learned how to crochet the mixed cluster stitch and saw what a wonderful texture it can create.
Cindy Toloudis
The write up at first states the pattern is a multiple of 2+1, but the video shows 2+2. Should we do as the video shows?
amanda
The difference is if you want to count the turning chain as the first sc or if you want to have a stitch instead of a turning chain. In the video I show the normal recommendation, but after making the video I have found that I really like working into a sc instead of the turning chain so I start with that. 🙂 Sorry for the confusion!
AngieHinSC
Amanda, I love this stitch! I think it looks like a star stitch had a baby and it came out looking like a crossbow! Ha! I know I may be seeing things. I have a question though, I notice in the video you do a sc into the 3rd chain from hook. Also you did an even number starting chain. On the blog here in the written pattern you say do an uneven number chain and you sc into 2nd chain from hook. Could you please explain what the difference is if any? Also I noticed your tension is not as tight as it used to be! You go girl! I used to always crochet tight it took me years to get my tension looser. When I quit working and owning my own business my tension got so loose it changed my gauge completely!! Haha! I had to start using different sized hooks to get gauge that were much smaller! Thanks for always sharing your gift so freely with us! You rock! I hope you and yours stay well!
amanda
Thanks so much!! The difference in the number of chains is whether you want to work into the turning chain or go ahead and not count the turning chain and sc into the 2nd ch from the hook. When I made the video I worked into the turning chain, but now I avoid that if at all possible, and with this stitch it’s possible to just do a sc and work into it on the second row. Yes, I have changed the way I crochet, especially when I’m filming. 😀
Sandi
I’m looking for a fancy crochet pattern for a bed doll does anyone know where I can get them?