The Rice stitch

This pattern consists of double crochet stitch (Dc), front and back post double crochet stitches, and half-double crochet stitches. It is quite dense and will work well for warmer accessories, such as hats or scarves.

• First, crochet a chain stitch. The number of stitches is up to you, but it is important that it is an odd number.
• Row 1: In this row, we will crochet double crochets (Dc). We will make the first Dc into the third stitch from the hook. At the end of the row, we will make a chain stitch (CH), which is not counted in the total number of stitches, and turn.
• Row 2: In the following rows, we will always start with a half-double crochet and then alternate between front and back post double crochet stitch. A half-double crochet stitch is always followed by a front post double crochet. We will also end each row with a front post double crochet and work a half-double crochet into the last stitch of the row. 1 chain stitch, then turn.
• Row 3: 1 half-double crochet, front post double crochet; alternate front and back post double crochets to the end of the row. Always crochet in the opposite way to how the stitches appear, i.e. crochet a back post double crochet above a front post double crochet and a front post double crochet above a back post double crochet. Finish with a front post double crochet and work 1 half-double crochet into the last stitch of the row.
• Repeat the process until the desired length is reached.