Crochet Thermal Stitch is a super dense and one of the thickest crochet stitches. It’s worked on two rows simultaneously which gives a double layer and a super thick and sturdy texture. It’s the perfect stitch for potholders, bags, coasters or anything where you need extra sturdiness.
In general, Thermal Stitches can be any stitches (single, half double or double crochet stitches) that are worked into the back loops only PLUS the unworked stitches on the row below at the same time. That’s what creates the thickness.
Most commonly used is the Thermal Single Crochet. But you can also use Half Double (I have two versions of that stitch here and here) and Double Crochets as Thermal Stitches.
How do you crochet the Thermal Stitch?
Insert your hook into the back loop only of the next stitch PLUS the parallel loop on the row below. Work a single crochet (or half double / double crochet) as normal through both of those loops. (Watch the video demonstration below for visual guidance)
What is the Thermal Stitch in crochet used for?
Thermal Stitch can be used for potholders, bags, any types of covers for laptops or books, coasters, baskets, placemats, or anything where you need the extra sturdiness. People use this stitch for pet blankets, headbands, beanies, and dishcloths.
Best way to know what you can make using the thermal stitch is to make a small swatch (or a potholder as it’s quite small & quick to work up and you can use it!) and feel the texture. Only then you will know if it’s a good stitch for your project. Also, when using a different type of yarn the stitch may look and feel differently (as with all stitches).
Also, it will use more yarn as it creates a double layer and accordingly it may take more time to work up.
Free Crochet Patterns Using Thermal Stitches
- Crochet Thick Potholder (single crochet thermal stitch)
- Thermal Half Double Crochet Potholder Pattern
- Extra Thick Crochet Potholder (a different version of half double crochet thermal stitch)
- Crochet Thermal Stripes Potholder (single thermal crochet with colour changes)
Difficulty
Easy/intermediate.
The Thermal stitch is not hard but it can be a little tricky to find the right stitches that you need to crochet into. Extra attention is needed especially in the first 3-4 rows as you’re learning what stitches to work into. After row 4 the stitches on both rows are much easier to see and it will get super easy!
Aaand…. don’t worry if you have to rip out your stitches and re-do them. I had to re-do my stitches many many times in the beginning and it still happens when I don’t pay attention. Enjoy the process of learning & practicing a new stitch. There is no rush and no pressure to make it perfect! 🙂
Materials
- Yarn: any medium worsted weight #4/10ply/Aran
- Hook: H-8 (5mm)
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Pattern Notes
To make it easier, I will explain the pattern below for Thermal Single Crochet. It’s the easiest to start with and once you learn the thermal single crochet you can easily replace the SC with any other stitch (HDC or DC).
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- Ch = chain
- SC = single crochet
- St = stitch
- Th St = Thermal stitch
Crochet Thermal Stitch Instructions
Chain any number of chains.
Row 1: Work a SC in the second chain from hook (back bumps) and each back bump across. Ch 1 and turn it vertical, as pictured below.
Row 2: Insert hook into the back loop of the very first stitch and into the parallel loop from the foundation chain row, as pictured below. Work a single crochet as normal through both of those loops. That’s one Thermal Stitch (Th St). Continue working Th Sts into every stitch across the row. Ch 1 and turn.
Row 3: Insert hook into the back loop of the first St PLUS the parallel loop from the row below. Work a SC as normal through both of those loops. Work Th Sts into every stitch across the row. Ch 1 and turn.
Repeat row 3 until you reach your desired size and then continue to last row instructions.
Last Row: Insert your hook under both loops (front and back loops, as you normally work a SC) plus the parallel loop on row below. You’ll have four loops on your hook, as pictured below. Work a SC through all four loops and repeat across the row. This will give a nice finish to your project!
I hope you like the Thermal Stitch and give it a try! Let me know in the comments below what you think of this stitch and what you’re going to use it for. For inspiration, check out these free patterns that use the Thermal Stitch.
Video Demonstration – Thermal Single Crochet
More free crochet patterns:
- Cross Stitch Potholder
- Tea Spa Crochet Mug Rug
- Apache Tears Crochet Mug Rugs
- Waffle Stitch Washcloth
- Spider Stitch Potholder
2 replies on “Crochet Thermal Stitch”
Is it just me or is it difficult to put the hook through the parallel stitch. do I need to crochet looser. if takes minutes to do each stitch.
Hi Joyce, it’s possible that your stitches are too tight. Try to crochet more loosely. Also using thicker yarn will make it easier. Hope this helps! 🙂