As winter is approaching, those who live in areas where snow and ice abound have the joy of watching icicles form. These wonders of ice may be what inspired what is known as both the icicle stitch and the larksfoot stitch. The design closely mimics what you see in a dripping icicle, and the stitch is super easy to do.
The only stitches necessary for this design are the chain, which is your foundation for all crocheting, the double crochet and the slip stitch. To maximize the beauty of this stitch, changing the color of your yarn every two rows is recommended. The stitch itself is always worked in multiples of four: three sets of double crochets and a chain. For a great step-by-step tutorial, check out the Crochet Geek video below.
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How to crochet the larksfoot stitch (or icicle stitch) video tutorial:
What makes the "drippy" part of the icicle or the long part of the larksfoot is a long double crochet. It actually reaches down past the open stitch in the row below and grabs the stitch two rows below.
What can you create with the larksfoot stitch?
Using five shades of blue plus white, the Waves Blanket by Little Treasures makes a great gift for babies.
Tory Makes uses the icicle stitch to create a darling hat to keep little ones' heads warm in the winter.
Ravelry is a great source for all kinds of patterns. Remember, you have to create an account to access some of the patterns there, but ideas abound on this site. For those who love bright colors, creating a rainbow blanket may be in order.
Another practical home decor piece is a throw pillow. B.hooked has a pattern for one that speaks of class.
Use a lighter, softer yarn to create an infinity scarf.
The icicle stitch is simple enough that children can do it well. Crochet for Children has a pattern for a baby afghan, but you can change the colors and make it larger, and it would be perfect for a child's bed.
Do you have a little one who needs to keep her hands warm? KindaStitchy used the larksfoot stitch to make adorable baby mittens.
Blancouleur also uses the larksfoot for an afghan.
Made by Needle and Yarn creates a completely different look for its blanket by using brighter colors and changing the border on the blanket.
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Regardless of where you're from or what your skill level is, the larksfoot, or icicle, stitch is an easy, beautiful stitch that you can use to create myriad items. When everything is cold and "drippy" outside, you can stay warm and dry inside and snuggle up with some yarn and a hook for entertainment.