Crochet Pattern: Shell Block Afghan

This pattern was inspired by an e-mail request from HilaryGirl@aol.com

If you use this pattern, please sign my Guest Book. I would like to know which patterns and sizes are most used, in order to create further popular designs.

MATERIALS:

The yarn and hook required for this pattern have been deliberately left unspecified. The crafter should choose the yarn of their preference, and create a sample square of one block of the pattern given below.
If the sample seems too tight, repeat with a larger hook. If the sample seems too loose, repeat with a smaller hook.
Measure the sample and calculate the number of pattern repeats required to give the desired afghan size.

ABBREVIATIONS: (English notation)

ch - Chain
sk - skip
dc - Double Crochet
tr - Treble
shell - Work 3 tr into same stitch

Version 1 : Staggered

Staggered Shell Block

INSTRUCTIONS:

Foundation Row: Each pattern repeat is made up of 22 stitches, plus 7 more stitches for the edges. (This includes 2 ch for turning.)
Calculate the number of stitches required, and chain this number.
For example: To make 5 pattern repeats per row, chain (22 * 5) + 7 stitches, i.e. 117 stitches.

Row 1:Tr into the 3rd chain from hook, 4tr, *[ ch1, sk1, (sk1, shell, sk1) 5 times, sk1, ch1, 5tr] repeat from * for number of pattern repeats required.
Row 2: Ch2 (counts as 1st tr), 4tr, *[ch1, (shell in space between next 2 shells on row below) 5 times, ch1, 5tr] repeat from * for number of pattern repeats required.
Repeat Row 2 until desired size is achieved.

Finishing: Finish off with an edging of your choice, such as one or more rounds of:

dc
shrimp stitch (reverse dc)
picot edging

Version 2 : Vertical

Vertical Shell Block

As above, but replace Row 2 with: Row 2: Ch2 (counts as 1st tr), 4tr, *[ch1, (shell in centre stitch of shell below) 5 times, ch1, 5tr] repeat from * for number of pattern repeats required.

Notes: The pattern may be repeated fewer times to produce smaller items such as:

Cushion Covers
Washcloths
Baby Afghans
Lap Robes

The blocks could also be worked in different colours, to give a patchwork effect. Both versions could be used alternately in the same piece for added interest.
Use your imagination, and be as creative as you can!

(c) 1997 Steph Thornton, all rights reserved. Permission for electronic duplication of this pattern is granted with the limitation that this entire notice remain intact. This pattern may not be reproduced in hard copy (with the exception of personal use), or for profit without my written permission. Contact: steph@stephthornton.co.uk

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Please e-mail any comments to me at steph@stephthornton.co.uk

Author : Steph Thornton.
Last modified on : 30th January 1998.