How to Crochet the Waffle Stitch

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Create the foundation chain

Begin with a slipknot, then chain in multiples of 3 for the body of the stitch pattern, adding 4 extra chains at the end. For example, 15 chains for the waffle pattern plus 4 extra gives a starting chain of 19. The extra 4 stitches account for the turning chain and the edge stitch — this is what keeps the sides of the finished piece clean and consistent rather than loose or uneven. The waffle stitch repeats every 3 stitches, so getting the foundation chain count right is essential before you begin the first row. Count carefully and recount before moving on.

Step 2 — Work the edge stitch

Double crochet (dc) into the 4th chain from the hook to create your first edge stitch. To work the dc: yarn over, insert the hook into the chain, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through 2 loops, yarn over and pull through the remaining 2 loops. This first double crochet acts as the standing edge stitch for the entire piece and establishes the height of the row. Keep this stitch at a relaxed tension — an overly tight edge stitch will cause the sides of the fabric to pull inward as you build up rows.

Step 3 — Complete the foundation row

Continue working one double crochet into each remaining chain all the way along the foundation row, ending with a dc in the last chain. This full row of double crochets forms the base that the front post double crochets will wrap around in subsequent rows — the posts of these stitches are what create the raised waffle texture. Keep your tension even throughout: stitches that are too tight will be difficult to work front post stitches into, while stitches that are too loose will make the finished fabric look uneven. At the end of the row, turn the work ready for the waffle stitch rows.

Step 4 — Introduce the front post double crochet

The waffle texture is built using front post double crochets (fpdc). To work an fpdc: yarn over, then insert the hook from front to back and then back to front again around the vertical post of the double crochet stitch from the row below — rather than inserting into the top of the stitch as you normally would. Yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through 2 loops, yarn over and pull through the remaining 2 loops. The stitch wraps around the post and sits proud of the fabric surface, creating the raised ridges that give the waffle stitch its characteristic look. Work the fpdc stitches in the positions indicated by the pattern, alternating with regular dc stitches to build the grid-like waffle texture across each row.

Step 5 — Continue the pattern and finish

Continue working rows of alternating double crochets and front post double crochets, following the 3-stitch repeat of the waffle pattern. The raised squares of the waffle texture will become more pronounced and clearly defined as more rows are added. Work to your desired length — a small square makes a washcloth or sampler swatch, while a longer piece can become a hat panel, a blanket section, or a dishcloth. When the piece is the size you want, fasten off, leaving a tail of around 15cm. Thread the tail onto a yarn needle and weave it securely through several stitches in two directions before trimming. Weave in any other ends in the same way for a clean, durable finish.

Frequently asked questions

What materials do I need to crochet the waffle stitch?
You will need a weight 4 cotton yarn (a variegated colour works particularly well to highlight the texture), a 4mm crochet hook, scissors, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends.

How do I start the waffle stitch foundation chain?
Create a slipknot and chain in multiples of 3, then add 4 extra chains at the end. For example, 15 stitches for the waffle pattern plus 4 extra gives a starting chain of 19. The extra 4 chains account for the turning chain and edge stitch, keeping the edges clean and consistent.

Can the waffle stitch be adapted to different yarn weights and hook sizes?
Yes — the waffle stitch pattern is flexible and works across different yarn weights and hook sizes. A heavier yarn with a larger hook produces a chunkier, more dramatic texture, while a lighter yarn gives a finer result. Experiment with combinations to find the density and drape that suits your project.

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