Shell Toilet Seat Cover
This free crochet pattern for a shell toilet seat cover can be crocheted up in an afternoon or so. It is designed to fit an older and rounder toilet seat. Here is the more modern version: Elongated Shell Toilet Seat Cover
This cover will look great in any bathroom with a vintage look. With that said, depending on your decor, this could also look great in a modern bathroom. Not only is this decorative, but you can use it to cover up old toilet seats that may have become sad-looking over time.
The pattern bulks in a few areas, but once it is put onto the toilet seat it stretches out rather nicely while the edge curls under to hold it securely in place.
The Stitch Pattern
This DIY toilet seat cover is started in the middle with the shell stitch for a beautiful design in the middle. As the cover grows, it’s more like a granny stitch pattern.
To make this you will need to be comfortable with the single and double crochet stitches as well as being able to make simple decreases.
Another thing you’ll need to know or be ready to learn is how to crochet around the loops of previous rounds. Here is a basic tutorial on how to do that: How to Crochet Around Loops
Recommended Yarn
I used Red Heart Comfort yarn. It is an aran weight yarn. I find it to be a bit thicker than the super saver and other worsted weights. Any similar yarn that results in the required gauge will work.
And you want to stick with acrylic because it has more stretch than cotton. You need to have the stretch in order for it to fit over the seat so it sits snug. If it is too loose it won’t stay on secure.
Red Heart Comfort
Other Patterns to Try
- Elongated Shell Toilet Seat Cover
- CD Double Roll Tissue Cover
- Chain Loops Bath Pouf
- Double Crochet and Cross Stitch Crochet Washcloth Pattern
- Pretty Simple Free Crochet Soap Cozy Pattern
Shell Toilet Seat Cover
Skill Level
Materials
- Yarn: Red Heart Comfort
- Crochet Hook: I/9-5.50MM
- Other: Measuring Tape, Scissors, Yarn Needle.
Measurements
- Gauge: Measures approximately 2.5″ across from side to side of first round, and 2.75″ across the loops of first round.
- Finished Size: Fits an older and rounder toilet seat.
Abbreviations
- Beg Shell = Beginning Shell
- Ch/Chs = Chain/Chains
- Dc = Double Crochet
- Dc2tog = Double Crochet 2 Together
- Rep = Repeat
- Sc = Single Crochet
- Sc2tog = Single Crochet 2 Stitches Together
- Sl St = Slip Stitch
- Sp/Sps = Space/Spaces
- St/Sts = Stitch/Stitches
Special Stitch Instructions
- Beg Shell: (Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the same sp or shell.
- Shell: (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) all in the same sp or shell.
Instructions
- Ch 6, join with sl st to first ch.
- Rnd 1: Ch 3 (counts as first dc now and throughout) work another 2 dc in same ch, ch 2, (3 dc, ch 2) in next 5 chs, join with sl st in first dc. (6 ch-2 sps)
- Rnd 2: Sl st into next 2 dc and into ch-2 sp, work (beg shell, ch 1) in same sp, (shell, ch 1) in next 5 ch-2 sps, join with sl st in first dc. (6 shells and 6 ch-1 sps)
- Rnd 3: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work (beg shell, ch 3) in same sp, (shell, ch 3) in next 5 shells, join with sl st in first dc. (6 shells and 6 ch-3 sps)
- Rnd 4: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work (beg shell, ch 5) in same sp, (shell, ch 5) in next 5 shells, join with sl st in first dc.(6 shells and 6 ch-5 sps)
- Rnd 5: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work (beg shell, ch 7) in same sp, *sc around the sps of rnds 2, 3 and 4, ch 7,** (shell, ch 7) in next shell, rep from * around ending last rep at **, join with sl st in first dc. (6 shells and 12 ch-7 sps)
- Rnd 6: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work (beg shell, ch 2) in same sp, *(3 dc, ch 2) in next 2 sps,** (shell, ch 2) in next shell, rep from * around ending last rep at **, join with sl st in first dc. (6 shells and 36 dc)
- Rnd 7: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work (beg shell, ch 2) in same sp, [(3 dc, ch 2) in next sp] 3 times, *(shell, ch 2) in next shell, (3 dc, ch 2) in next sp, (shell, ch 2) in next sp, (3 dc, ch 2) in next sp, rep from * around; join with sl st in first dc. (11 shells and 39 dc)
- Rnd 8: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work (beg shell, ch 2) in same sp, [(3 dc, ch 2) in next sp] 4 times, (shell, ch 1) in next shell, (2 dc, ch 2) in next sp, (3 dc, ch 2) in next sp and in each sp and shell around up to the last sp, (2 dc, ch 1) in last sp; join with sl st in first dc. (2 shells and 97 dc)
- Rnd 9: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work (beg shell, ch 2) in same sp, [(3 dc, ch 2) in next sp] 5 times, (shell, ch 1) in next shell, (2 dc, ch 2) in next ch-1 sp, (3 dc, ch 2) in each sp around up to the last ch-1 sp, (2 dc, ch 1) in ch-1 sp, join with sl st in first dc. (2 shells and 103 dc)
- Rnd 10: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work (beg shell, ch 2) in same sp, [(3 dc, ch 2) in next sp] 6 times, shell in next shell, (1 dc, ch 2) in next ch-1 sp, (3 dc, ch 2) in each sp around up to the last ch-1 sp, 1 dc in ch-1 sp, join with sl st in first dc. (2 shells and 107 dc)
- Rnd 11: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, work beg shell, 3 dc in next 7 sps, shell in next shell, sk next 3 dc in shell, sc in next dc, sc in next sp and in next 3 dc, (3 dc, ch 1) in next sp and in each sp up to second from last ch-2 sp, 3 dc in last sp, sc in next 3 dc and into sp, sc in dc, join with sl st in first dc. (2 shells and 115 sts)
- Rnd 12: Sl st into next 2 sts and into sp of shell, ch 3, work another 4 dc in same shell, sk next 3 dc in shell, sc in next 21 sts, work 5 dc in shell, sk next 3 dc in shell, sc in next 8 sts, 3 dc in next sp and in each sp around, sc in next 8 sts, join with sl st in first dc. (136 sts)
- Rnd 13: Ch 1, work 1 sc in each st around, join with sl st in first sc. FO.
- If you find your seat cover keeps coming off, you can sew an elastic around the edge to help for it to stay snug around your toilet seat lid.
Bath
See More Crochet Patterns for the Bathroom.
I’m trying to make this for my mom as a gift, but I’m having a difficult time understanding round 7. Can you clarify any? It would be much appreciated!
Carrie, I’d be happy to help you out. Not sure which part you are struggling with, but by reading it over I’m guessing it might be this part: “(3 dc, ch 2 in next lp) 3 times”. Basically you do the (3 dc, ch 2) in next 3 lps.
Let me know if that’s it, if it helps or if you’re struggling with something else.
Thanks so much. :)
Thank you, Rhelena. I think I’ve figured it out. It wasn’t looking sometrical at first, but as I finished the round and went on to the next, its making sense now. Thanks for the quick reply! :)
Awesome, so glad you figured it out :)
I made the whole thing and it turned out to big. Guess I’m gong to chain drawstring and thread trough to tightenen
Lovely job! This was featured in an MNE Crafts round-up!
http://www.mnecrafts.com/2014/05/decorate-your-house-round-up-10-free.html
Thank you so much Amanda! Really appreciate you taking the time to do the feature. :)
Have a great weekend!
Rhelena
Hello. I was wondering if you have a pattern (or modification for this pattern) for an oval/elongated seat cover. My mother has a friend who wants my mom to make a cover for her. We’ve searched around but with no success. Round ones abound. With a pattern, my mom can make most anything but she is unable to modify or create a pattern. Thank you.
Hi Carla, There have been more requests for an elongated modification, but at this time i don’t have one. Could you give me measurements for one and I will see what I can do. Thanks so much. :)
Thanks!
Narrow end (top) 9.25″
Widest (middle) 18.5″
Length 16″
Front curve 9″
Okay, I don’t have one of those lids, but I’m going to try and write out instructions on how to modify it. Is there a timeframe that you need it by?
No timeframe — how could I put a timeframe on something you are being generous to try to provide? :) Just something my mother’s friend asked her to make and my mother apparently has been looking for some time for the pattern. Thanks.
This is beautiful! I too would love to have the instructions for the elongated seat cover. I’ll check back for sure! You have a beautiful hand!
Okay, sounds good. I’m going to see what I can do and find myself one of those elongated seats so I can do a good job at it. And just so you know, my schedule is a bit tight right now, but I’ll try and get to it in about a month from now. Thanks so much for your patience. :)
My sis & I are both interested in the elongated version too! What a great pattern. I love to crochet but I’m always amazed at those of you who can design patterns. I am grateful you share that talent.
I’m going out today to find an elongated lid, so hopefully I’ll get on that next week. It’s good to know so many are interested in it. :)
Thank you so much for this beautiful pattern. I just finished mine and it came out gorgeous! I did have to make a couple of modifications though. Mine was not snug enough so I finished as stated but added a row of SC, decrease SC around. This made for a snug fit. Then I just slipped stitch around and finished off. Thanks again, I love it.
Marianne, glad you like it and that you found a way to make it work for you. :) Have a great day! :)
My mom & her friend were wondering if you have any update on the pattern for the elongated seat cover. Thank you.
The pattern is being tested right now and hopefully will have it published next week. :)
Having trouble with rnd 7 can you explain it better
The post wasn’t updated properly when I did the update, but try it now. You might want to re-download the entire pattern. Let me know if this is better, Thanks so much.
I got it finished added more rows and dec but it looks nice thanks
Hello and thank you for giving us this pattern, it’s gorgeous. I crocheted both elongated and round and for some reason am having trouble with them fitting. I have just an average toilet seat. Wonder if I am crocheting to tight? Something is a miss. Lol.
It’s hard to say because toilet seats come in all shapes and sizes. The elongated one is for one of the largest covers you can find so I don’t think that one would work for a standard lid. As for the other one, I’m not sure what to say. You might need to do a few extra rounds to make it larger all around, or you could just add a few rows along the bottom to make it longer.. Sorry I’m not of more help. :(
I’m completely lost after step 6… Is there a video that explains this? I’m just leaving to read patterns and I just don’t get it lol! I see the chain 7 between each she’ll on step 6 but on 7 we drop down to 2? What did I miss?
When you make the ch-2 you are working more dc’s into the ch-7 spaces to make up for fewer chs.. Is that what you’re asking? I’m not sure what you mean by step 6 & 7. I’m guessing you meant rnd 5 & 6… but let me know .. Thanks. :)
Hola me gustaria el grafico del juego de baño es la unica forma de hacerlo
I’m trying to learn it, but I’m a slow learner, and will have to try a different program as what I’m using now is not working. Thank you so much for your patience. :)
I love the pattern so far! I am a little confused in step 10 when it says “shell in next shell” and then later on it just uses “shell” instead of “shell, ch 2” How many single crochet do I put in the shell if it just says shell and does not specify?
Thank you so much!
Hi Ella, The “shell” is specified under special stitch instructions as: Shell: (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) all in the same sp or shell. So if the pattern just says shell, then you would work the 3dc, ch 2, 3dc all into the same space. Let me know if that helps or not. Thanks :)
Does any one make this seat cover for sale?
Hi Carmelia, You might be able to find someone on this list: https://crochetncrafts.com/crocheters-to-take-your-custom-crochet-orders/ :)
I am making this toilet cover for sale.
Yes i am going to try to make this and the guage is throwing me off can you explain hoe to do it
Simply do the first two rounds and get them to come out to the measurements as listed. To get an accurate measurement, you might want to crochet three rounds and then take measurements.
I love this pattern. Quick, easy and oh so pretty. It was a perfect fit. It should be named simple elegance. Thank you for sharing.
Do you have a pattern for a matching tank set and bath mat? I love the pattern but I wanted a full set. If so, could you provide a link?
Sorry, I don’t at this time.
I have made a very simple tank cover which I would share. & rug patterns seem to be around all over.
I would love to see it, would you mind sharing it on our CrochetN’Crafts FB group? https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecrochetncraftsgroup/ Thank you so much. :)
I will take a picture when I am able. I am not very good with my camera. This is a lovely pattern. I made the elongated one as I got a new toilet. I have blue in the middle surrounded by yellow. The tank cover follows the shell pattern. Will get picture to you soon. Thanks. I started making a Christmas one in red & green, but decided it probably shouldn’t be make into a toilet seat. I am going to finish it up as a pillow. I am very spiritual, but do not claim any specific Religion. I use the Al=Anon principle of take what you can use & leave the rest. I was baptized & confirmed in a Lutheran Church so am most familiar with the Lutheran Guidelines. In studying the various Religions I feel They have more in common than They differ, but it seems some get stuck on a few guidelines & will not look at another’s
point of view. You don’t have to print all this religious stuff. I am homebound & need to sound off now & then. Crocheting has been a God send to me.
I love love love your pattern, my bathroom colors are black, silver, grey, with orange accent color can you help me figure out what color to make the toilet seat cover. One of each… Hahaha!!!
Sure, why not lol. :) I’m bad for color-coordination, so really can’t help you, but someone else might have an idea.
I would put orange in the middle & then scatter the other colors on the outside.
Can this item be sold? I have made a toilet tank cover to go with it. Wanted to sell some Christmas Ones in green & red.
Yes, you are more than welcome to sell your finished items anywhere you like. :)
hi good day please help me, the brackets is throwing me off dont understand it, and where must the spaces occur
ex 6ch-7sps
Here is an article that explains the brackets: https://www.anniescatalog.com/crochet/learntoread.html
Just made this and it turned out beautiful. I dropped down a hook because I crochet loose and it worked out very well. It put the finishing touch on my newly redone bathroom. Thank you for the pattern
I am a beginner and saw this pattern. I am stuck on round 8 and do not understand what to do. Please help!!!
when the directions say in next sp and in each sp and shell around up to the last sp sounds confusing.
What am I supposed to do?
Hi Riva, Sorry you’re having difficulties. I’m going to try and help :)
“(3 dc, ch 2) in next sp and in each sp and shell around up to the last sp, (2 dc, ch 1) in last sp;”
So basically you work what’s in the last set of parenthesis into each shell and ch-2 sp until you get to the last ch-2 space. And into the last ch-2 sp you work only 2 dc and a ch-1. The pattern changes a bit from the beginning of the round because the beginning forms the straight edge along the bottom of the lid. Let me know if that helps or not. :)
Beautiful design. Perfect fit! Thanks so much.
I have just seen the video explained rnd 5. I hadn’t seen it before I sent the question. Please ignore my question.
Glad you were able to figure it out. :)
Thank you so much for posting this pattern!!! I have extra yarn from Sugar n Cream… not sure if you are familiar with it but it is 100% cotton and I don’t think it stretches too much. I am trying to make it with this yarn because the orange variegated colors match with a shower curtain I have. Do you think I can use this yarn for your pattern? Please let me know, I would love to use this yarn for it. If I don’t use your recommended yarn, what is the # of yarn balls I need to use for this project?
Hi Juana, Thank you for your question. But to be honest, I don’t know how this would work with a cotton. If you decide try it, perhaps you could let us know? :)
I enjoyed working this pattern. It took me only three hours to complete. It fits perfectly and once I complete with the notions I will send you a pick.
Do you have other patterns?
Best,
Sonia
There are a lot of comments about orange here and I love orange. I made mine in solid orange to go with my new rubber ducks shower curtain and orange rugs and towels. It’s awesome. I’d only ask that the fit measurements be added to the pattern. I had to wait hours to see if it would fit the lid; I’m not sure what a standard lid measures.
Rhelena, thanks for a great pattern!
You’re welcome Merrie :)