Learn how to crochet the bead stitch with my free step-by-step pattern and video tutorial in both right and left-handed versions. If you are familiar with Treble Crochet (US Double Crochet) we will be taking this technique one step further to create a beautiful intricate stitch. The crochet bead stitch is a beautifully textured stitch that adds a decorative, raised effect to your projects. It creates a series of small, bead-like clusters that stand out from the fabric, adding dimension and visual interest.
Pattern Use Ideas
Materials & Tools
- Yarn: For the sample in the turtorial I have used Paintbox Simply DK. However, you can use any weight yarn and recommended hook size that can be found on the belly band to your chosen yarn.
- Hook: 4mm (G-6)
- Scissors
- Darning Needle
- Tape Measure
Pattern Notes
Written in UK terms but switchable to US terms below.
Skill Level: Intermediate
This pattern gives you the basic principles for the bead stitch, designed to help you create your own projects.
When working your bead stitch, do not pull the yarn too tight as this can make the stitch difficult to complete.
Video tutorial can be found at the base of the post.
Stitch Multiple: 2 +1
Convert Pattern Terms
Here you can quickly switch between UK and US crochet terms. This will make following the pattern easier as all terms will be converted to your preferred version.
Terms & Abbreviations
Chain: ch(s): Yarn over, pull through loop on the hook.
Slip Stitch(s): ss(s): Insert hook, yarn over, pull through stitch and loop on hook.
Double crochet: dc(s): Insert hook into stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, you will have two loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.
Treble crochet: tr(s): Yarn over, insert hook into stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, you will have three loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.
*__* – Repeat indicated instructions
Special Stitches
Bead Stitch: (bst): yo, insert the hook behind the previous tr from front to back, yo and pull through a loop three times around the same tr (7 loops on the hook), yo and pull through 6 loops, yo and pull through remaining loops on the hook.
Unsure of the differences between UK and US terms? Need a refresher on how to do your stitches? In my ‘How to crochet: A handy reference guide’ EBook I help you with all of these terms and you can always have them to hand! You will also get exclusive access to free video instructions. You can find my EBook HERE.
Pattern Support
The fastest way to get pattern support is to ask in our dedicated facebook group for Bella Coco Crochet patterns. This is the best place for you to connect with other crocheters.
Please note, if you wish to change and adapt this pattern in any way, this must be done at your own exploration and we cannot offer assistance with this.
Pin For Later
Free Pattern: Crochet Bead Stitch
You are viewing this pattern in UK terms.
Foundation: Ch in multiples of 2 +1.
Row 1: dc in second ch from the hook (skipped ch does not count as st), dc in each ch across. Turn.
Row 2: 3 ch (counts as tr), *tr in next st, bst around post of tr just made, skip dc, rep from * across until 1 st rem, tr in last stitch. Turn.
Row 3: 1 ch (does not count as st), dc in each tr and bst across. Turn.
Rep Rows 2 and 3 until desired height, ending with a Row 3.
Fasten off and sew in ends.
Video Tutorials
Right-handed
[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=”OrA2vBsR” upload-date=”2025-03-18T19:27:26+00:00″ name=”CROCHET_ BEAD STITCH | Bella Coco Crochet.mp4″ description=”null” player-type=”default” override-embed=”default”]Or you can watch on YouTube
Left-handed
[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=”LjOoQE41″ upload-date=”2025-03-18T19:28:53+00:00″ name=”LEFT HANDED CROCHET_ BEAD STITCH | Bella Coco Crochet.mp4″ description=”null” player-type=”default” override-embed=”default”]Or you can watch on YouTube
Crochet Stitches To Try Next
Have you tried these stitches?
Click below to explore the FREE stitch library.
I always love to see your makes so if you try any of my patterns or follow my stitch tutorials please tag me @bellacococrochet or use the #bellacococrochet
sarah-jayne
Hi l have been trying this bead stitch with 2 rows of double stitch instead of 1 but can’t seem to get it to work , l seem to get wider the higher up l go can you tell me if you have tried it this way if so where am l going wrong .
I’ve not tried this stitch with two rows of double crochet but as long as you are ending up with the same number of stitches after the second row it should work out. It sounds to me as though you are creating an extra stitch or two and that’s why the piece is getting wider and wider. As long as you are counting each stitch after the first row, and are making sure to work into the same amount of stitches for the second row, then it should work out
I have a question on row 3. In the video, you skip the first stitch. But you don’t state that in the written pattern. Usually when you start with a chain one, you go into the first stitch. Do the counts stay more accurate with skipping the first stitch? I apologize if that doesn’t make sense.
Thanks for picking up on this – there seems to be a discrepancy between the video and the written instructions. You should skip the first stitch as in the video tutorial Sorry for any confusion!