This realistic spiral shell is knitted flat, in two pieces, with 2 double-pointed needles and short rows. The shaping makes the knitting fall into a natural spiral.

Use any 4ply sock wool. It is a great way to use up any oddments that you have left over. My new hobby is looking for realistic shell shades. I have used Sirdar Crofter wool in my first photo.

There is one long seam. And then sewing it into a spiral is done with tiny stitches. The pattern has detailed photographs and instructions explaining how to do this.

You can read a bit more about my shell pattern on my blog at http://ginxcraft.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/shells.html

And if you would like some shells already knitted up, then visit my Etsy shop at https://www.etsy.com/shop/GinxCraft where I have some sets of seaside creatures for sale.