The open, grid-like design created by the filet stitch gives it a light and airy feel. Use it for a beach-y shawl or a lace-like table cloth.

You may have seen this stitch in heirloom afghans and baby blankets. It's a beautiful vintage stitch that creates eye-catching designs, especially when worked in stripes. It can be a little tricky, but an intermediate crocheter should have no problem picking up this stitch.

Once you see the crocodile stitch, there's no question where it got its name! This fun, whimsical stitch can be used to mimic dragon scales, mermaid tales, and even bird feathers. It's a cinch to learn too, because it's made using the basic double crochet stitch. After you get used to turning your work to form the scales, you'll have no problem crocheting the crocodile stitch.

Just like its name suggests, this stitch really pops off your work. Use it to give your project a fun, puffy texture.

Along with the popcorn stitch, the puff and bobble stitches are great ways to add puffy, chunky texture to your project. These are especially great for thickening up winter accessories. In this post, you can find tutorials on the stitches and an easy-to-understand explanation of what makes them different.

When you want to level up from a basic stripe, try a chevron stitch. The zigzag effect will give your project a little pizazz, and it's much easier than it looks.

If you're looking to add an edgier edge to your scarves and blankets, the spike stitch is for you. Rows of spike stitch are also another way to spice up basic stripes.

The basketweave stitch gives you a thick woven fabric with lots of depth and density. Try it when you want to add some weighty texture to your project.

This linen stitch is a popular stitch with many names (you may see it called the moss stitch or the granite stitch). It's simple, but creates a lovely, dense textured fabric --- without being too stiff! It's great for when you want a close knit that still has some drape.

The charm of the larksfoot stitch is the pretty teardrop shape it creates. This delicate stitch is lovely for afghans and baby blankets.

There are so many different kinds of lace stitches, but the shell mesh stitch really stands out. It combines shells and chain spaces into an airy, drape-y lace that's perfect for shawls, beach coverups, and more.

If you love the look of fringe, you need the loop stitch! Keep the loops for a floppy texture, or cut them for true fringe. Also called the fur stitch, the loop stitch is a great way to create hair for dolls or plushies.

This stitch is thick, textured, and "waffle"-ly cute. The waffle stitch works up great in cuddly blankets, warm shawls, and winter accessories.

There's a lot to love about the ribbed half double crochet. If you like a knitted look, but prefer to crochet, this stitch gives you the best of both worlds. Plus it shows up on the front and back sides of your work, which makes it a perfect choice for scarves.

Give your project a little extra shine with the star stitch. Named for the pretty starburst shapes it creates, the star stitch also boasts a thick dense texture. Beauty and function!

Similar to the chevron stitch, the wave stitch is a fun way to spice up your stripes. It's simple -- just repeat one row -- but it creates a beautiful effect.

Another stitch that mimics the look of knit, the waistcoat stitch is thick and sturdy. Its neat and tidy look makes it a good choice for understated garments and men's accessories.

The pretty and dainty suzette stitch is a good next step for beginners. It looks fancy, but it doesn't take too long to get the hang of. If you're ready to move on from single and double crochet, give this stitch a try!

The lemon peel stitch combines a thick sturdy fabric with a delicate appearance. Plus it's really simple! Once you get the hang of it, it's sure to become one of your go-to stitches.

The combination of chunky texture and beautiful symmetry makes the aligned cobble stitch so satisfying. If you want something fun but still neat and tidy, give this stitch a try.