The double crochet stitch (abbreviated as dc) is one of the six basic crochet stitches we learned at the beginning of our crochet journey. It is the fifth tallest stitch after hdc, making it fast to work up while producing interesting designs and textures.
Once you know how to work one crochet stitch, the others fall through; all it takes is one more or one less step in the instructions. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to crochet it and provide tips and tricks to make the process easier. Grab your yarn and hook and let’s get started!
What is a Double Crochet Stitch?
DC is a tall stitch that produces a solid yet stretchy fabric. It builds up quickly and effortlessly, especially if you use bulky yarn. Due to its characteristics, it is an excellent choice for big projects such as blankets and sweaters. It is one of the easiest and most handy stitches in crochet.
Abbreviation
A Double Crochet is abbreviated as “dc” in US terminology and “tr” (Treble Crochet) in UK terminology.
[Note: All our patterns and terms are based on the US letter and number system. This guide is demonstrated using the right hand.]
Chart Symbol
In a chart pattern, a Double Crochet is represented by the letter “T” with a short diagonal cross “\” in the middle.
Anatomy
Just like common crochet stitches, dc stitches have a front loop, a back loop, and a 3rd loop. The hdc, dc, and treble crochet stitches have another part into which you can make your stitches, the Post.
Essentially, the post is the body of the stitch. Since double crochet has a tall post, you can work into the post to create unique textures.
Stitch Height
The dc stitch is double the height of a single crochet (sc). It is taller than the hdc stitch (hdc) yet shorter than the treble crochet (tr).
The image above shows that it is equivalent to the length of 3 chain stitches. As a result, before crocheting the next row, make 3 ch stitches as a turning chain to bring the new row to the correct height.
Turning Chain for Double Crochet
Turning chains are made at the end or beginning of a row or round to assist in bringing the yarn to the correct height for the next row or round. Every stitch has a different length, resulting in a different number of chain stitches.
The turning chain for dc is three chain stitches and typically counts as the first stitch of the new row. However, some patterns may call for only two chain stitches. Also, always check the written pattern to determine whether the turning chain counts as the first stitch.
Need a detailed guide on how to crochet a dc stitch? Let’s go through it step by step.
How to Double Crochet
- With an existing loop on the hook, YO (yarn over the hook).
- Insert the crochet hook into the next stitch.
- YO again and pull up a loop.
- You should have three loops on the hook;
- YO again and draw the working yarn through the first two loops on the hook.
- You now have 2 loops left on your hook.
- YO for the last time and draw the yarn through the remaining loops.
- You’ve completed your first dc stitch!
Double Crochet into a Foundation Chain
Let’s put what we just learned into practice! Let’s start by making these stitches into a foundation chain.
Let’s apply what we’ve just learned from the very beginning! Start by making a slip knot and a row of chain stitches to form a foundation chain.
- Chain 3 for the turning chain, and YO. The loop on the hook does not count as the first chain stitch.
- Insert the hook into the fourth chain from the hook.
- YO again and pull up a loop.
- With 3 loops on the hook, YO and draw the working yarn through the first 2 loops.
- YO again and draw the yarn through the last 2 loops.
- You’ve just made a dc in a foundation chain! Continue to make dc stitches until you reach the end of the row, then chain 3 again as the turning chain for dc.
Double Crochet in Next Row
If ch3 wasn’t made before turning the crochet piece, you can make it before starting your new row.
- After making the 3-turning chains, turn your work clockwise and YO.
- Insert the hook into the next stitch.
- YO and pull up a loop.
- YO and draw yarn through the first 2 loops.
- YO again and pull yarn through all loops on the hook.
- Continue making dc stitches across the row. Make 3 chain stitches at the end, then turn your work clockwise to begin another row of dc.
Double Crochet Increase & Decrease
Now that you know how to crochet dc, you can use techniques like increases, decreases, and invisible decreases to help build your crochet piece into different shapes.
1. How to Increase Stitches in dc
As its name suggests, double crochet increase (abbrev. dc inc or 2dc) helps to grow the number of stitches in your work each row or round.
To perform a 2dc increase, place 2 dc stitches into the same stitch from the previous row. You can also make 3dc, 4dc, and so on into the same stitch to form a larger pattern.
2. How to Decrease Stitches in dc
There are two methods of decreasing in dc: the regular method and the invisible decrease.
To perform a double crochet decrease (abbrev. dc dec or dc2tog), combine two stitches into one stitch. It is also possible to combine 3, 4, or 5 stitches into one if required. Dc5tog is a type of dc variation known as bobble stitch; we will get into that later in this tutorial. Here is how to make a normal dc dec:
- YO, insert hook into next stitch and make a dc until the last step;
- Do not complete the stitch;
- You should have 2 loops on the hook;
- YO, insert hook into the following stitch and make another dc;
- Again, do not complete the stitch;
- You should have 3 loops on the hook;
- YO one last time and pull the working yarn through all 3 loops on the hook;
- This is what a normal dc dec looks like.
3. How to Invisible Decrease in dc
A double crochet invisible decrease (dc inv dec) is ideal for achieving a flawless finish. Unlike the normal decrease, this method combines two base stitches into one before making the dc stitch.
- YO and insert the crochet hook into the front loops of the following two stitches.
- YO and pull up a loop.
- Then, complete the dc stitch as usual.
- Here is what a dc inv dec looks like.
Double Crochet in Different Loops
You would typically make stitches under the top of the stitch, but there are several parts of a dc stitch where you can make your stitches.
- dc flo: dc in the front loop only (the horizontal bar closest to you).
- dc blo: dc in the back loop only (the horizontal bar furthest from you).
- dc 3rd loop: dc in the 3rd loop only (seen on the wrong side of the crochet piece, under the back loop).
- FPdc or BPdc: dc on the post (the body of the stitch), either from the front (FP) or from the back (BP).
1. Front Loop Only (dc flo)
Insert the hook into the front loop only and make a dc.
Here is what dc flo looks like from the back. It leaves the back loops unworked, creating a ridge that you can use to connect another crochet piece or as a decorative design.
2. Back Loop Only (dc blo)
Insert the hook into the back loop only and perform the dc stitch as normal.
Working dc into the back loops only leaves the front loop unworked. It’s a common technique used in dc, especially in making garments like beanies.
3. Third Loop Only (dc 3rd Loop)
- Find the third loop of dc stitch located below the front loop;
- YO and insert hook into that loop you just found;
- Make a dc stitch as normal.
- Working into the 3rd loop only creates a sideways V on the back of the crochet piece.
By working into the 3rd loop only, you push the front and back loops away. This produces a braid-like appearance across the entire row. A whole project worked in the third loop only makes it look like a knitted item.
4. How to Double Crochet Post Stitches
Rather than placing your hook under the top part of a stitch, you will insert the hook around the post (body) of a stitch from the previous row and work a regular dc around that post.
- Front Post Double Crochet (abbrev. FPdc)
- YO and insert your hook through the back of the post and back to the front;
- The post should be in front of your crochet hook;
- Continue to complete dc as normal;
- You’ve just made a front-post dc!
- Back Post Double Crochet (BPdc)
- YO, bring your hook to the back of the post. Insert the hook through to the front of the post and back around;
- The post should be behind your crochet hook;
- Continue to make dc as normal;
- This is what a back post dc looks like!
- Fabric made from regular DC, FPdc and BPdc
- The BPdc sits behind the post from the previous row and is only visible from the back of the fabric.
- The FPdc sits in front of the post from the previous row, creating a raised fabric.
How to Double Crochet in the Round
Making dc stitches in the round requires you to work your projects in circles instead of horizontally across. Dc in the round is a great way to create a fabric with a lot of texture. It is one of the most common stitches used for crochet in the round.
There are two ways you can crochet in the round for a flat circle:
1. Joined Round
To crochet in a joined round, chain 3 (deemed as the first stitch) at the beginning of the round, either with a magic ring or ring foundation chain. Then make dc stitches into the center. After completing the last stitch, make a slip stitch into the first stitch to close the circle. Make the ch3 turning chain to bring the yarn to the dc height before continuing to crochet the next round, then close the round with a slip stitch.
2. Continuous Spiral Round
Since dc is a tall stitch, it is more difficult to make a big jump to the second round without closing the round and using a turning chain. However, it is not completely impossible to use dc stitches in the continuous spiral rounds.
How? The trick is to create a gradient at the start of the round so that it forms a smooth slope for the second round.
To crochet in a continuous round, start with chain 1 in a magic ring or ring foundation chain, then make 2 to 3 sc stitches, followed by 2 to 3 hdc stitches, and finish the rest with dc stitches. There is no need to make turning chains after each round with this method.
Double Crochet Stitch Variations
- Double Crochet Ribbing
There are several ways to create dc ribbing in crochet. Making your stitches into the front, back, or third loop produces a knit-like ribbing appearance. - Herringbone Double Crochet
Abbreviated as Hbdc. You will only be making a slight adjustment to the regular DC to produce a solid and compact fabric. - Waffle Stitch
It involves making dc stitches on the front post of the stitch (FPdc). Working dc around the body of the stitch creates a textured fabric for unique designs. - Granny Stripe Stitch
This is one of the most popular dc variations. It’s known for its unique texture and is often produced in multiple yarn colors. This technique is commonly used for Afghans and baby blankets. If you’ve come across the classic granny square pattern, it’s like the granny stripe stitch but in a square shape. - Bobble Stitch
Making rows of bobble stitches with dc5tog creates a fun and playful round bobbly texture that pops out of the fabric. - DC C2C Crochet
C2C is a type of crochet technique that works from corner to corner diagonally. DC C2C creates a beautiful tile-like texture for your crochet project, this stitch is well-know to make into blankets.
Key Takeaways For Double Crochet Stitch
Let’s recap all the important information about this stitch:
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1. Abbreviation
In the US, Double Crochet is abbreviated as dc.
However, it is called Treble Crochet in the UK, abbreviated tr. -
2. Symbol
The dc symbol looks like a T with a diagonal line across the middle.
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3. Stitch Height
Double crochet is the fifth tallest stitch among the six basic crochet stitches. It is two times the height of a single crochet and equivalent to the length of 3 ch.
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4. Crochet Instruction
1. Yarn over, insert hook into next stitch, and pull up a loop;
2. Yarn over again and pull yarn through the first two loops;
3. Yarn over again and pull through the remaining loops on the hook. -
5. Turning Chain
The turning chain for dc is typically 3 chain stitches. However, some patterns may call for 2 chain stitches.
The turning chain is usually counted as the first dc of the row/round unless stated otherwise.
Free Crochet Patterns That Use Double Crochet Stitches
Due to its simplicity and versatility, dc is one of the most commonly used stitches in many beginner-level crochet patterns. Here is a variety of free patterns that use the dc stitch:
Oversized Tote Crochet Pattern In Diamond Stitch
Measuring at 21" wide and 29" tall, this large tote bag has an oval-shaped base and a diamond-shaped body. It is crocheted mostly in double crochet stitches.
Granny Square Dish Towel – Free Crochet Pattern
This dishtowel is made up of four granny squares. You'd then sew them together and crochet the top and bottom parts with double crochet stitches.
Mesh Stitch Crochet Market Bag Patterns
Here is a beginner-friendly crochet bag pattern that can be completed in just about three hours! It's made with raffia yarn, making it lightweight and durable.
Crochet Bucket Bag Pattern
If you can't find a bucket bag that suits you, make one yourself! You can customize the colors, material, and size to your liking.
Smiley Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern
This adorable bag is made up of plain and smiley granny square blocks. Of course, if you prefer to create this bag with all smiley square blocks, go for it!
Solid Square Crochet Top Pattern
This free pattern teaches you how to make a simple crochet top from solid granny squares. It has 7 sizes from XS to 3XL for you to choose from.
Basic Men’s Crochet Hat
This crochet hat is made up of dc stitches for the crown and FPdc/BPdc for the band. This specific pattern uses medium-weight yarn and a 6.5mm crochet hook, resulting in a thick and warm finish. If you prefer an airier hat, you can use a lighter yarn and its equivalent hook.
Colorful Crochet Velvet Twist Headbands
Velvet yarn can be difficult for beginners as it is quite slippery. Yet, the result is an extra warm and soft product. This tutorial comes with a head circumference chart and a free video tutorial that you can refer to.
Easy Crochet Double Velvet Cowl
Crocheted with a double-sided design, this soft cowl is also made with velvet yarn. It's made up of dc stitches and wide dc, creating a more open and drapey fabric.
Woven Basket Crochet Pattern
This basket pattern comes in two sizes, 3.5" and 5.5", making it flexible to store multiple items such as craft tools, stationery, snacks, and more. It is crocheted in FPdc and BPdc to give it a basketweave texture to the body.
Granny Stripe Dishcloth
The granny stripe pattern is essentially making 3 double crochet stitches into one stitch or space. This stitch is often paired with two or more yarn colors to showcase its pattern. The result is a beautiful and elegant piece of fabric.
Easy Mug Rug
Filet crochet creates a grid-like finish with holes that allow you to weave in yarn as a decorative element.
Easy Crochet Coaster
This coaster begins with a round center, followed by dc stitches and dc increase around. The final round is finished with a scalloped edge for an elegant appearance.
Super Simple Crochet Coaster
Circular coasters are one of the most common beginner-friendly projects. This pattern is constructed like a regular dc coaster project but is completed with popcorn stitch for a unique edging.
Crochet Fall Forever Blanket
Don't be afraid to try large crochet projects; this blanket is made up of entirely double-crochet stitches! You can customize the size by increasing or reducing the number of starting chains. If you're not comfortable changing yarn colors, you can create this blanket in a single yarn color.
Sunburst Granny Square Blanket Crochet Pattern
This sunburst project is made up of sunburst granny squares! Once you've completed the individual squares, sew the squares together to create one large blanket.
Easy Crochet Ombre Shell Stitch Baby Blanket
This specific pattern places 5dcs into the same stitch for its shell stitch pattern. You'd repeat the pattern for several rows, then finish off the blanket with a crab stitch border (instructions included in the guide).
Waffle Stitch Baby Blanket
The waffle stitch creates a wonderfully soft texture. The stitches you need to know include chain stitch, double crochet stitch, and FPdc. It is completed with a single crochet edging, but you can choose to opt out of this.
Lori Hooded Poncho Crochet Pattern
You can personalize your poncho with different yarn weights! A light-weight yarn makes a delicate and airy poncho, while a heavy-weight yarn creates a dense and thick fabric that is perfect for winter.
Pastel Triangles Pillow: join-as-you-go in C2C crochet (video tutorial)
C2C (corner-to-corner) crochet is a great way to showcase the design of a project. This tutorial comes with a chart that you can follow and a guide on how to read the chart.
What’s next?
- Learn more about crochet through our free tutorials:
- Browse our library of free crochet patterns, or try out this stitch with the free and easy patterns below.
How to Double Crochet
Learn how to make a double crochet stitch. It's one of the most used six basic stitches in crochet patterns.
Materials
- Yarn
Tools
- Crochet Hook
Instructions
- With an existing loop on the hook, YO (yarn over);
- Insert crochet hook into next stitch;
- YO again and pull up a loop;
- You should have three loops on the hook;
- YO again and draw the working yarn through the first two loops on the hook;
- You should have 2 loops left on your hook;
- YO for the last time and draw the yarn through the remaining loops;
- You’ve completed your first double crochet stitch!
Notes
Get the full article at https://madefromyarn.com/how-to-double-crochet/ with more pictures and details.