Crab stitch is a simple single crochet stitch, but instead of right to left it should be worked from left to right.
That's why
there is one more name for this stitch - Reverse Single Crochet. It
looks pretty decorative and reminds me of a cord. A corded edge or shrimp
stitch are other well known names for the stitch.
Here are a few traditional ways to use a Reverse Single
Crochet:
It is a good decorative border for a finished edge. Reverse
single crochet can be done both on a knitted or crocheted fabric.
It firms up the edge preventing it from rolling. At the same
time, decorative cord looks light and neat.
It is a good solution for rounding off armholes and necklines
where steps of decreases are noticeable.
In case you would like to insert a zipper, a decorated "frame" of
stitches along the edges will make it look neat and finished.
A reverse single crochet stitch is a good "trick" to adjust a wavy
and stretched edges (usually it happens on the bottom of the sleeves,
sweater or a dress.)
Crochet a row of the single crochets to make the
edge fits you. Did not manage to make it proper from the first attempt?
Try one more time till you figure out how many single crochets on the
edge you need to make it fit. Use that row as a base for a decorative
stitch edging.
How to crochet a Crab Stitch.
The stitch is easy to do, but it certainly requires some
practice to make it look clean-cut. Reverse direction of crocheting
confuses you a little bit from the very beginning. Especially if you tend to
crochet pretty tight. It does get better with practice.
You should crochet from the left to the right (right-handed
people). Yarn is in the back of the work. Insert the hook from front to
back at the end of the row. Chain one for height.
Yarn over. Draw up a loop. There are two loops on the hook.
Yarn over. Pull yarn through both loops as usual for a single crochet.
Continue across the row inserting your hook at right to begin the next crab stitch.
As usual, I can say that it is easier to watch the video instead of
reading or listening to someone's explanations.