Broomstick crochet, also known as broomstick lace, is a vintage crochet technique that creates a lacy, openwork fabric with large, eye-catching loops. This style is named after the original tool used—a broomstick handle—but today, most crafters use a large knitting needle or a jumbo crochet hook to achieve the same effect. The stitch is made by combining two steps: pulling up loops onto the large tool and then crocheting those loops off in groups, typically using single or double crochet stitches.
To get started with broomstick crochet, begin by chaining a foundation row. Next, you’ll pull up a loop from each stitch of that row and place it onto your large needle or broomstick. After you have a full row of loops, you slide them off the tool in manageable groups—commonly groups of 4 or 5—and secure them by working single crochets into each group. This process creates columns of beautiful loops that give the stitch its signature lace look.
The result of broomstick crochet is a lightweight, airy fabric that’s ideal for shawls, scarves, and other decorative pieces. It looks intricate but is quite approachable once you get the hang of the looping technique. With a bit of patience and some practice, broomstick crochet offers a unique way to add vintage charm and texture to your projects.
Pattern and tutorial by American Crochet Association