If you’re new to crochet or looking to expand your skills, learning the double crochet stitch is a must. It’s one of the most common crochet stitches used in countless crochet patterns, from baby blankets to granny squares.
Its versatility makes it perfect for creating different textures in your projects, whether you’re working on a simple scarf or intricate home décor. Plus, it’s easy enough for complete beginners yet adaptable for more advanced designs.
What is the Double Crochet Stitch?
The double crochet stitch is one of the most common and quick stitches in crochet. It’s taller than a single crochet stitch and half double crochet stitch. Yet shorter than a treble crochet stitch. Making it ideal for a wide range of projects.
Its height and simplicity allow for quick progress, making it a favorite for beginners and seasoned crocheters alike.
How to do Double Crochet Stitch
In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through every step of the double crochet stitch, covering everything from making the slip knot to finishing the last stitch in a row.
We’ll touch on common terms like “top of the turning chain” and “working yarn” while exploring how this taller stitch compares to others like the single crochet or treble crochet.
Whether you prefer written pattern instructions, a photo tutorial, or a video tutorial for visual learners, you’ll find everything you need to master this great stitch. Grab your crochet hook and some worsted weight yarn, and let’s dive in.
Skill Level
The double crochet stitch is beginner friendly. It’s one of the most basic crochet stitches. Mastering it will open up countless possibilities in your crochet journey.
This tutorial is designed for complete beginners but also includes tips for more advanced crocheters looking to refine their technique or explore variations.
Mastering the Double Crochet Stitch: A Complete Beginner’s Guide
Skill Level
Beginner Friendly
Gauge
Gauge will depend on the yarn and crochet hook used. This stitch pattern is suitable for all yarn weights.
Materials Needed
To get started with the double crochet stitch, you’ll need the following materials
For practice, let’s start with a medium weight yarn.
Yarn. Worsted weight yarn is ideal for practice as it’s easy to see the stitches.
Crochet Hook. A 5mm (H/8) hook is a great size for beginners.
Scissors
Stitch Markers
Tapestry Needle
Measuring Tape
Pattern Notes
Written in US Terms.
This stitch can be worked in rows or in the round.
The stitch techniques will work with any yarn weight. If you are new, I recommend starting with a medium weight yarn.
Watch a video tutorial or follow a photo tutorial if you’re a visual learner. Photos are within the instructions and the videos are after the written instructions.
Step-by-Step Double Crochet Tutorial
Step 1: Make a Slip Knot and Foundation Chain
Start by creating a slip knot and placing the loop on your crochet hook. Then chain the desired number of stitches for your foundation chain.
For beginners, practice with 15-20 chain stitches to keep things manageable.
Step 2: Begin the First Row
To make your first double crochet stitch, yarn over and insert the hook into the fourth chain from the hook (this counts as your first double crochet stitch).
Yarn over again, pull through the chain (you should have three loops on your hook).
Yarn over, pull through the first two loops, yarn over again, and pull through the remaining two loops.
Step 3: Continue Across the Row
Work a double crochet stitch into each chain across. Be sure to count your stitches and end with a double crochet in the last chain.
Step 4: Turning Chains
Some people work the turning chains before they turn, and others work the turning chains as they begin the next row. Either way, there will be 3 chain stitches at the beginning of the next row.
Here are the instructions: At the end of the row or beginning of row 2, chain three (this is your turning chain) and turn your work. The turning chain counts as your first stitch of the row. This step helps maintain the correct height for rows of double crochet stitches.
Step 5: Work the Second Row
Since the turning chain counts as a stitch, make the first double crochet in the second stitch.
Start your second row by working a double crochet stitch into the second stitch (not the turning chain). Continue working across.
Remembering to place your last double crochet in the top of the turning chain from the previous row. Always place the last double crochet stitch of the row into the top of the turning chain from the previous row. This ensures clean and straight edges for your project.
That’s it. Continue repeating row 2.
YouTube Video Tutorials
In summary. Yarn over, insert the hook through both loops and pull up a loop. Next, yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook. Lastly, yarn over again and pull through the last two loops on the hook.
HOW TO CROCHET THE DOUBLE CROCHET STITCH video tutorial
If you are a brand new crocheter, the chain stitch tutorial may be helpful in getting you started.
HOW TO CROCHET THE CHAIN STITCH video tutorial
How to Double Crochet in the Round
Working double crochet stitches in the round is common for creating hats, doilies, and circular granny squares. Follow these steps
Make a slip knot and chain a small number (e.g., 4-6 chains). Join the chain into a circle with a slip stitch.
Chain three (counts as your first double crochet) and work double crochet stitches into the center of the ring.
Join the round with a slip stitch into the top of the turning chain.
For subsequent rounds, chain three, and work double crochet stitches into each stitch or space as needed.
We have an entire blog post dedicated to How to Crochet Round Circles for Beginners. There are links to video tutorials for both left hand and right hand crocheters.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
Even experienced crocheters encounter a few hiccups. Here’s how to avoid and fix common issues.
Skipping Stitches. Make sure to count your stitches and place your last double crochet in the top of the turning chain.
Uneven Edges. Consistently use a turning chain to ensure the correct height.
Adding Extra Stitches. Avoid working into the same stitch twice unless instructed to do so in a pattern.
Variations and Advanced Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basic double crochet stitch, try these variations.
Double Crochet Increase. Work two double crochet stitches into the same stitch to expand your work.
Invisible Double Crochet Decrease. Reduce stitches seamlessly for shaping.
Front Loop or Back Loop Only. Work into specific loops to create texture.
Tips for Beginners
Practice with solid, light-colored yarn to easily see your stitches.
Use stitch markers to mark the first or last stitch of each row.
Start with small, simple projects like dishcloths or coasters.
Alternative to Turning Chain Stitches
What is a Chainless Standing Double Crochet?
This helps reduce the gap that can sometimes show when starting off a row of double crochet stitches. Rather than completing the normal chain 3 at the beginning of a row.
Start by pulling up the yarn a bit making the loop that is on the hook a bit larger (about the height of two stitches). Hold the stitch at the bottom and the loop that is on the hook, at the same time, twist the hook around the back of the loop. Insert the hook into the same stitch, then yarn over and draw the yarn through the first two loop. Yarn over and draw the yarn through the last two loops on the hook.
CHAINLESS STANDING DOUBLE CROCHET video tutorial
Understanding the Working Yarn
The working yarn is the strand of yarn that is connected to your yarn ball or skein. It’s essential to maintain even tension on the working yarn to ensure your stitches are consistent in size and shape.
Beginners may find it helpful to practice holding the working yarn in their non-dominant hand while using their dominant hand to maneuver the crochet hook. Learning to control the working yarn’s tension can prevent common issues like overly tight or loose stitches.
No Chain Double Crochet Stitch Tutorial
This is a unique stitch combination to create a chain stitch and double crochet stitch. Using this technique will create a chain stitch that does not have any gaps. The first row of double crochet stitch is worked at the same time you work the chain stitch.
NO CHAIN DOUBLE CROCHET STITCH video tutorial
What does ‘insert hook into the fourth chain’ mean?
This refers to counting four chains from your crochet hook and inserting the hook into that chain to begin your first double crochet stitch.
Why does my project have uneven edges?
This is likely due to inconsistent turning chains. Be sure to chain three at the beginning of each row to maintain the correct height.
What’s the difference between US and UK crochet terms?
In US terms, the double crochet stitch is equivalent to the UK’s treble crochet stitch.
This crochet stitch is a versatile, beginner-friendly stitch that forms the foundation of many crochet patterns. With practice, you’ll be creating rows or rounds with ease. This stitch is sure to become a staple in your crochet toolkit.
You can find Victoria crocheting, quilting, and creating recipes. She has cooked in restaurants for over 20 years, including many larger parties. She learned to crochet when she was just 11 years old and has been crocheting ever since; over 50 years now. Over 40 years ago, she loved her first class in sewing and continues to hone her skills in quilting. Many have enjoyed the handmade gifts over the years. In her professional career, she has worked in management in a wide variety of businesses including higher education as a dean of a division. All the while attending college part-time to achieve her doctorate in higher education with an emphasis in e-learning.