Leaf Lace Crochet Stitch (also known as “Leaf Fan Stitch” or “Open Leaf Pattern”)

 🧶 Materials:

• Cotton or acrylic yarn (light to medium weight works best)
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• Crochet hook suitable for your yarn (usually 3–4 mm)
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• Scissors
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• Yarn needle

✨ Pattern Instructions (US terms):

Foundation Row:
Chain a multiple of 10 + 3 (for turning).

🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions

Row 1:

In the 6th chain from the hook, make 1 DC (double crochet), ch 2, skip 4 ch, 1 DC in next ch.

Repeat from * to * across. Turn.

Row 2:

Chain 3 (counts as 1 DC), 2 DC in the next ch-2 space, ch 2, 2 DC in same space.

Skip next DC, 1 DC in next DC.*

Repeat from * to * across. Turn.

Row 3:

Chain 4, 1 DC in first ch-2 space, ch 3, 1 DC in same space.

Skip next 4 DCs, 1 DC in next ch-2 space, ch 3, 1 DC in same space.

Repeat across. Turn.

Row 4:

Chain 3, 3 DC, ch 2, 3 DC into each ch-3 space (this forms the leaf clusters).

Repeat across, end with 1 DC in top of turning ch. Turn.

Row 5:

Chain 5, 1 DC in ch-2 space of next cluster, ch 3, 1 DC in same space.

Repeat across, turn.

Continue alternating Row 4 and Row 5 the pattern repeats and grows into that gorgeous leaf design 🌿.

💡 Pro Tips:

• Use a solid color yarn to highlight the texture.
• Block your finished piece for crisp, open lace.
• This stitch looks stunning for shawls, blankets, or wraps.

⭐ Short Introduction

This beautiful leaf lace stitch is perfect for shawls, scarves, table runners, and lightweight garments. It creates an elegant openwork texture using simple double crochet and chain spaces, making it beginner-friendly while still looking impressive. If you're learning lace patterns, this one is a great place to start.

⭐ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the wrong number of chains: The foundation row must follow the multiple exactly (multiple of 10 + 3) or your pattern will fall out of alignment.

• Forgetting to work into the ch-2 and ch-3 spaces: This stitch relies heavily on chain spaces. Missing them changes the shape of the leaf clusters.

• Tension too tight: If your stitches are tight, the lace will not open nicely. Keep your tension relaxed.

• Not counting DC groups: Leaf clusters form only if the DC counts are correct, so check your stitch count at the end of each row.

⭐ Best Yarn Choices

• Cotton yarn: Ideal for shawls, summer tops, and table runners because the lace looks crisp and defined.

• Acrylic yarn: Good for lightweight blankets or wraps; gives a softer drape.

• Sport or DK weight: Best for clear stitch definition without making the pattern too bulky.

• Solid or light-colored yarn: Helps the leaf texture stand out beautifully.