Lemon Peel Stitch Crochet: Alternating sc and dc for Instant Texture
Alternate single and double crochet across the row, then swap them on the next. The lemon peel stitch creates a dimpled texture like citrus skin — with no special stitches.
Pattern at a glance
US terms- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn
- Worsted (#4) cotton or acrylic
- Hook
- 5 mm (H-8)
- Time
- 10 minutes to learn
In this post
The lemon peel stitch is texture for people who don't want to learn new stitches. You alternate a single crochet and a double crochet across the row; on the next row, you put a single crochet on top of each double and a double on top of each single. The mismatched heights create little dimples, like the skin of a lemon.
The rest of this post is just below — free, as always.
How to crochet the lemon peel stitch
Chain an odd number (which gives an even number of stitches).
- Row 1: Ch 21. Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook, dc in the next ch. *Sc in the next ch, dc in the next ch*; repeat across. Ch 1, turn. (20)
- Row 2: Sc in the first st (a dc), dc in the next st (a sc). *Sc in the next dc, dc in the next sc*; repeat across. Ch 1, turn. (20)
- Row 3 onward: Repeat Row 2.
The rule is simple: sc into every dc, dc into every sc. Because you start each row with a sc, an even number of stitches always ends on a dc — ready to be topped with a sc on the next row.
Best uses for lemon peel stitch
- Dishcloths: the dimples scrub well — try it on our dishcloth pattern.
- Baby blankets: texture without holes for little fingers.
- Pillow covers and cup cozies.
- Beginner practice: you'll learn to "read" sc and dc in your fabric.
Lemon peel vs similar stitches
| Stitch | How it's made | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon peel | Alternate sc, dc; swap each row | Fine dimples |
| Suzette | (sc, dc) in one st, skip one | Bumpy, dense |
| Moss | sc, ch 1 into spaces | Flat, woven |
| Waffle | dc and front post dc | Deep grid |
Common questions
Why is my lemon peel fabric slanting?
Some lean is normal with mixed heights. Keep the dc's first loop pulled up to full height, and block the finished piece.
Can I work lemon peel stitch in the round?
Yes, with an even stitch count. Work sc, dc around; on the next round, the sequence naturally shifts if you start with a dc.
What yarn shows lemon peel stitch best?
Smooth, light-coloured cotton or acrylic. Fuzzy or very dark yarn hides the dimples.
Lemon yellow for a lemon peel dishcloth — too obvious, or perfect? 🍋
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