Noro Shell Stitch Skirt Crochet Pattern

Noro Shell Stitch Skirt

What is Being Made

The Noro Shell Stitch Skirt is an intermediate-level crochet garment designed as a fitted waist skirt with a flared lower edge. Available in four sizes with finished waist measurements of 30, 33, 36, or 40 inches, this skirt features a length of approximately 20½ to 21½ inches. The design creates a feminine silhouette through strategic increases from the waist to the lower edge, which measures between 45½ and 60½ inches depending on size. A single ¾-inch button provides closure at the waist.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This skirt is constructed using multiple shell stitch variations, which are classic crochet stitch patterns that create decorative, fan-like textures. The pattern employs three distinct shell stitch variations—Shell Stitch #1, Shell Stitch #2, and Shell Stitch #3—each producing different fabric densities and drape characteristics. The garment is worked in the round, beginning at the waist and expanding outward to create the flared silhouette. The direction of work progresses from the fitted waist opening downward to the wider lower edge.

Stitches Used

The primary stitches throughout this design are:

• Shell stitches: Shell Stitch #1 uses 7 double crochet stitches grouped together with single crochet separations. Shell Stitch #2 utilizes 5 double crochet stitches in similar groupings. Shell Stitch #3 alternates between 7 double crochet shells and single crochet stitches, creating the main textured fabric.
• Double crochet (dc): The primary stitch forming the decorative shells and providing structure
• Single crochet (sc): Used to separate shell groups and create stitch definition
• Chain (ch): Used for foundation and transitions between rounds
• Slip stitch (sl st): Used to join rounds and create seamless circular construction

Materials and Gauge

The Noro Shell Stitch Skirt is worked using Noro Silk Garden Sock yarn in colorway #269. The pattern requires 5 to 8 balls of yarn depending on the finished size selected. Four different crochet hook sizes are used throughout the pattern: sizes C/2 (2.75mm), D/3 (3.25mm), E/4 (3.5mm), and G/6 (4mm). Hook selection determines the final gauge and fabric characteristics.

Gauge is critical for achieving proper fit in this garment. Shell Stitch #1 worked with a size C/2 hook produces 4 repeats over 4 inches horizontally and 6 rounds over 1¾ inches vertically. Shell Stitch #2 with the same hook size yields 4 repeats over 4½ inches and 6 rounds over 2 inches. Shell Stitch #3 varies significantly by hook size: with a C/2 hook it measures 4 repeats over 5 inches and 6 rounds over 2¼ inches; with a D/3 hook, 4 repeats over 5½ inches and 8 rounds over 3 inches; with an E/4 hook, 4 repeats over 5½ inches and 8 rounds over 3 inches; and with a G/6 hook, 4 repeats over 6 inches and 10 rounds over 4 inches. Crocheters should take time to check their personal gauge before beginning, as gauge directly affects the finished waist and hip measurements of the completed skirt.