This tutorial is for making the Cluster Stitch (Dc3tog).  It should not be confused with the bobble stitch, which is also sometimes called a cluster stitch.

Cluster Stitch vs Bobble Stitch

Both of these stitches are made by partially completing 3 double crochet stitches and then completing them all on the last yarn over.  The difference is that the double crochet stitches are all made in the same stitch when making a bobble stitch, whereas they are made in subsequent stitches when making the cluster stitch.

If you need visual help identifying the difference between the two stitches, have a look at the photo below.

The cluster stitch is worked over 3 st’s and is triangular in appearance.  The bobble stitch is worked into one stitch and has a teardrop shape.

To compensate for the fact that you are decreasing by 2 st’s with every cluster that you make, cluster stitches usually have 2 or more chain stitches between clusters.  The only exception to this rule is when you actually want to decrease, for example when shaping objects like toys or bags.

How to Make a Cluster Stitch

We are working on the premise that you already have a pattern to hand that calls for making cluster stitches or dc3tog’s, and you just want to clarify how to do that.

The whole idea of the cluster stitch (dc3tog) is that you partially complete the next 3 double crochet stitches – each in a subsequent stitch – and then yarn over and pull through all 4 loops on your hook (the original loop + 1 loop for each partially completed dc).

Cluster Stitch Photo Tutorial

Beginning Cluster Stitch

If you are starting your row/round with a cluster stitch, the initial ch-2 will count as your first partial dc.

Ch 2 (Photo 1).  Yarn over and insert your hook into the next stitch.  Yarn over and draw up a loop – 3 loops on hook (Photo 2).  Yarn over and pull through 2 loops – 2 loops on hook (Photo 3).

Yarn over and insert your hook into the next stitch.  Yarn over and draw up a loop – 4 loops on hook (Photo 4).  Yarn over and pull through 2 loops – 3 loops on hook (Photo 5).

Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops on your hook (Photo 6).

This is one beginning cluster stitch (or dc3tog) completed.

Once you have made the cluster stitch, remember to ch 2 between cluster stitches.  Some patterns might require you to make more chain stitches between clusters.

Subsequent Cluster Stitches

If you are making a cluster stitch (or dc3tog) anywhere else than at the very beginning of a row/round, this is how you will do it:

Yarn over and insert  your hook into the next stitch.  Yarn over and draw up a loop – 3 loops on hook (Photo 1).  Yarn over and pull through 2 loops – 2 loops on hook (Photo 2).

Yarn over and insert your hook into the next stitch.  Yarn over and draw up a loop – 4 loops on hook (Photo 3).  Yarn over and pull through 2 loops – 3 loops on hook (Photo 4).

Yarn over and insert your hook into the next stitch.  Yarn over and draw up a loop – 5 loops on hook (Photo 5).  Yarn over and pull through 2 loops – 4 loops on hook (Photo 6).

Yarn over and pull through all 4 loops on your hook (Photo 7).

This is your cluster stitch (or dc3tog) completed.

Anatomy of the Cluster Stitch

Some patterns will require you to work into the top of the cluster stitch.  You will find the top (loops) of the cluster stitch right above the first partially-completed dc.  If you are working in rounds, these loops will be situated more to the right (left if you are left-handed).  If you are working in rows, these loops will be situated more to the left (right if you are left-handed).

Occasionally a pattern might instruct you to work into the ch st right after the cluster.  You will identify this chain stitch as being the stitch (loops) directly above the third partially-completed dc of the cluster.

Sometimes a pattern will instruct you to work into the ch-2 space between clusters.  If you are instructed to do that, work over the 2 ch st’s and into the space below them, not into the actual chain stitches…unless, of course, the pattern specifically tells you to.

My favourite way of using cluster stitches is by placing them over traditional granny-square 3-dc groups.  They form little diamonds.

While I was doing this tutorial, I got distracted by my lovely new Deborah Norville Everyday yarn…I ended up making this quick little flower to illustrate the cluster stitch a bit better.  The flower is resting on a Paint Splatter Square, also made with Deborah Norville.

And that’s it.  Clusters done!

Remember to have a look at my other Free Crochet Tutorials and Patterns.

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Happy Hooking!