The Big Fan Crochet Stitch is a beautiful openwork crochet pattern that creates large, decorative fan-like sections across the fabric. It combines double crochet stitches, single crochet stitches, and chain spaces to form a repeating design with plenty of texture and an airy appearance.
The stitch may look intricate at first, but it is built from a repeating sequence of simple stitches. Once you understand how the 8-row pattern works, you can repeat the design to create blankets, scarves, shawls, wraps, bags, home décor, and many other crochet projects.
Big Fan Crochet Stitch Definition
The Big Fan Crochet Stitch is an open and decorative crochet stitch that creates large fan-shaped sections using groups of double crochet stitches. These fan sections are surrounded by chain spaces and single crochet stitches, giving the finished fabric an attractive combination of solid and open areas.
The pattern begins with an 8-row setup. Rows 1 through 8 establish the main design, and Rows 3 through 8 are then repeated to continue the stitch pattern.
The large groups of 7 double crochet stitches are an important part of the design. They create the prominent fan sections that give this crochet stitch its name.
Big Fan Crochet Stitch Abbreviations
This free pattern is written using US crochet terms.
Beg beginning
Ch chain
Ch-sp chain space
Dc double crochet
Rep repeat
Sc single crochet
Sk skip
st (s) stitch (es)
How to Crochet the Big Fan Stitch
Follow the steps below to create the Big Fan Crochet Stitch. The foundation chain is worked using the formula of any multiple of 20, plus 1, plus 5.
Step 1: Make the Foundation Chain
Begin by making a foundation chain using the following formula:
Any multiple of 20 + 1, plus 5.
Choose the number of repeats according to the width you want for your project. Keep your foundation chain loose and even so the first row does not pull or curl.
The additional chains are used to create the turning and starting structure for the first row.
Step 2: Work Row 1
Row 1 is worked on the wrong side (WS) and creates the first series of chain spaces.
Work 1 sc in the 8th chain from the hook. This stitch counts as 1 dc and ch 2.
Next, begin the repeating sequence:
Ch 5, skip the next 3 ch, 1 sc in the next ch.
Repeat this sequence across the row.
When you reach the last 2 chains, work ch 2, skip the next ch, and 1 dc in the last ch.
Turn your work.
This row creates the open chain spaces that will be used to build the fan design in the following rows.
Step 3: Work Row 2
Chain 3. This counts as the first dc.
Skip the first dc.
Work 3 dc in the next ch-2 space.
Skip the next sc.
Work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Then repeat the following section 3 times:
Ch 5, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Now begin the main fan section:
Skip the next sc, 7 dc in the next ch-5 space, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Repeat the ch-5 section 3 times:
Ch 5, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Repeat the main sequence across the row.
When you reach the final ch-7 space, skip the next sc and work 4 dc in the last ch-7 space.
Turn your work.
The groups of 7 dc begin forming the large fan sections of the pattern.
Step 4: Work Row 3
Chain 4. This counts as 1 dc and ch 1.
Skip the first dc.
Work the following sequence into the next 3 dc:
[1 dc, ch 1] in each of the next 3 dc.
Skip the next sc.
Work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Then repeat the following section twice:
Ch 5, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Next, begin the large fan section:
Skip the next sc, ch 1, [1 dc, ch 1] in each of the next 7 dc.
Skip the next sc and work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Repeat the following section twice:
Ch 5, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Repeat the main sequence across the row.
At the end, work [ch 1, 1 dc] in each of the next 3 dc, followed by [ch 1, 1 dc] in the turning chain.
Turn your work.
This row begins defining the individual stitches inside the large fan groups.
Step 5: Work Row 4
Chain 5. This counts as 1 dc and ch 2.
Skip the first dc.
Work [1 dc, ch 2] in each of the next 3 dc.
Skip the next sc.
Work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Work ch 5, skip the next sc, and work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Continue into the large fan section:
Skip the next sc, ch 2, [1 dc, ch 2] in each of the next 7 dc.
Skip the next sc and work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Work ch 5, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Repeat this sequence across the row.
At the end, work [ch 2, 1 dc] in each of the next 3 dc, followed by [ch 2, 1 dc] in the turning chain.
Turn your work.
The extra chain spaces make the fan sections more open and help create the airy texture of the stitch.
Step 6: Work Row 5
Chain 5. This counts as 1 dc and ch 2.
Skip the first dc.
Work 1 sc in the next dc.
Then work:
Ch 5, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc.
Repeat this once more.
Skip the next sc.
Work 7 dc in the next ch-5 space.
Now repeat the following sequence:
Skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next dc, [ch 5, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc] 3 times, skip the next sc, 7 dc in the next ch-5 space.
Continue repeating this sequence across the row.
Near the end, work skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next dc, ch 5, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc.
Finish with ch 2, 1 dc in the 3rd chain of the turning chain.
Turn your work.
The groups of 7 dc stand out clearly in this row and create the main fan shapes.
Step 7: Work Row 6
Chain 8. This counts as 1 dc and ch 5.
Skip the first dc and the next sc.
Work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Skip the next sc.
Work ch 1.
Then work the following sequence into the next 7 dc:
[1 dc, ch 1] in each of the next 7 dc.
Skip the next sc.
Work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Now repeat:
[ch 5, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space] twice.
Then work ch 1, [1 dc, ch 1] in each of the next 7 dc.
Skip the next sc and work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Repeat this sequence across the row.
At the end, skip the next sc, work ch 5, and finish with 1 dc in the 3rd chain of the turning chain.
Turn your work.
Step 8: Work Row 7
Chain 5. This counts as 1 dc and ch 2.
Skip the first dc.
Work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Skip the next sc.
Work ch 2.
Then work [1 dc, ch 2] in each of the next 7 dc.
Skip the next sc.
Work 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Continue with:
Ch 5, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space, skip the next sc, ch 2, [1 dc, ch 2] in each of the next 7 dc, skip the next sc, 1 sc in the next ch-5 space.
Repeat this sequence across the row.
At the end, make 1 sc in the last ch-8 space, followed by ch 2, 1 dc in the 3rd chain of the turning chain.
Turn your work.
This row continues the fan structure while keeping the open spaces between each section.
Step 9: Work Row 8
Chain 3. This counts as the first dc.
Skip the first dc.
Work 3 dc in the next ch-2 space.
Skip the next sc.
Work 1 sc in the next dc.
Then repeat the following sequence 3 times:
Ch 5, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc.
Next, skip the next sc and work 7 dc in the next ch-5 space.
Skip the next sc and work 1 sc in the next dc.
Repeat the following section 3 times:
Ch 5, skip the next dc, 1 sc in the next dc.
Continue repeating the main sequence across the row.
At the end, work 4 dc in the last ch-5 space.
Turn your work.
Row 8 brings the stitch pattern back to the large fan groups and prepares the fabric for the next repeat.
Step 10: Repeat Rows 3–8
Once Rows 1 through 8 are complete, the main pattern repeat is established.
Repeat Rows 3–8 until your project reaches the desired length.
As you repeat the six-row sequence, the groups of 7 dc will continue forming the large fan motifs across your work. Keep checking your chain spaces and stitch groups to maintain an even pattern.
Tips for Perfect Big Fan Stitch
- Follow the foundation chain formula carefully.
- Count your chains before beginning Row 1.
- Pay close attention to the skipped stitches and chain spaces.
- Keep the groups of 7 dc consistent.
- Make your chain-5 spaces approximately the same size throughout the project.
- Count the stitches within each fan section as you work.
- Keep your tension even so the openwork remains neat.
- Use stitch markers if you find it difficult to keep track of the large repeats.
- Check the pattern after every completed row before moving to the next one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The Big Fan Crochet Stitch uses several chain spaces and skipped stitches, so counting is important. A small mistake in one row can affect the placement of the fan motifs in later rows.
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Starting with the wrong foundation chain length.
- Forgetting that the beginning chain can count as a dc and chain space when specified.
- Skipping too many or too few stitches.
- Missing a chain-5 space.
- Making fewer or more than 7 dc in a fan section.
- Forgetting the single crochet stitches between sections.
- Working into the wrong chain space.
- Losing track of the repeated sections in Rows 3–8.
- Using very tight tension for the chain stitches.
If your fans are not lining up correctly, check the previous row carefully. Look especially at the skipped stitches, chain spaces, and groups of 7 dc.
Projects You Can Make with Big Fan Stitch
The Big Fan Crochet Stitch creates a decorative open fabric that works well for projects where you want a combination of lace, texture, and large fan motifs.
Blankets
Use this stitch to create lightweight blankets, throws, and decorative afghans. The large fan motifs can create a beautiful repeating pattern across the entire blanket.
Scarves and Shawls
The open spaces make this stitch a lovely option for scarves, shawls, wraps, and lightweight accessories. Choose a soft yarn that allows the fan design to drape naturally.
Baby Projects
The decorative pattern can be used for baby blankets, lightweight wraps, and other nursery accessories. Choose a comfortable yarn that is suitable for the intended project.
Pillow Covers
Use the Big Fan Crochet Stitch for decorative pillow covers to add a textured, handmade accent to your home.
Home Décor
This stitch can also be used for table runners, curtains, decorative panels, cushion covers, and other home décor projects where an open crochet design works well.
Big Fan Stitch Variations
Once you are comfortable with the basic Big Fan Crochet Stitch, you can experiment with different yarns and colors to create your own variations.
- Use one color for a simple and elegant appearance.
- Change colors after completing a full repeat to create stripes.
- Use contrasting colors for the fan sections and open spaces.
- Try lightweight yarn for a delicate lace effect.
- Use medium-weight yarn for a more noticeable texture.
- Add a simple border around your finished project.
- Combine Big Fan Stitch with solid crochet rows for contrast.
Changing the yarn weight, hook size, or color combination can give the same stitch a completely different look.
More Crochet Stitch Tutorials
Learning different crochet stitches allows you to create a wider range of textures and patterns. Once you are comfortable with the Big Fan Crochet Stitch, try combining it with other openwork and textured stitches.
- Single Crochet Stitch (sc)
- Half Double Crochet Stitch (hdc)
- Double Crochet Stitch (dc)
- Treble Crochet Stitch (tr)
- Bobble Stitch
You can also use individual stitch repeats as decorative sections within larger crochet projects. This is a great way to experiment with stitch combinations while developing your crochet skills.
Conclusion
The Big Fan Crochet Stitch is a decorative crochet pattern that creates large, eye-catching fan motifs using double crochet, single crochet, and chain spaces. Although the stitch involves several rows, the repeating structure makes it easier to follow once you understand how each section works.
Rows 1 and 2 establish the foundation of the pattern, while Rows 3–8 build and define the fan motifs. After completing the setup, simply repeat Rows 3–8 until you reach the desired length.
With its open texture and large fan shapes, the Big Fan Crochet Stitch is a versatile choice for blankets, scarves, shawls, baby projects, pillow covers, and home décor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Big Fan Stitch suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Big Fan Crochet Stitch can be learned by beginners who are comfortable with basic crochet stitches. The pattern requires careful counting, but the repeat becomes easier once you understand how the chain spaces and groups of 7 dc work together.
What is the foundation chain multiple for Big Fan Stitch?
The foundation chain follows the formula of any multiple of 20 + 1, plus 5. Choose the number of repeats based on the width you want for your project.
Which stitches are used in Big Fan Stitch?
The Big Fan Crochet Stitch uses chain stitches, single crochet, and double crochet. Skipped stitches and chain spaces are also an important part of creating the open fan design.
What creates the large fan shape?
The main fan sections are created with groups of 7 double crochet stitches worked into the designated chain spaces. These groups form the large, curved sections that give the stitch its fan-like appearance.
How do I repeat the Big Fan Stitch pattern?
First complete Rows 1–8 to establish the pattern. After that, repeat Rows 3–8 until your project reaches the desired length.
What can I make with Big Fan Stitch?
The Big Fan Crochet Stitch can be used for blankets, scarves, shawls, wraps, baby blankets, pillow covers, table runners, curtains, bags, and other decorative crochet projects.