To double crochet, wrap the yarn over your hook, insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through two loops twice. That sequence leaves one loop on your hook and one finished double crochet stitch. Read on for photos to take, a practice swatch, and fixes for the mistakes almost every beginner makes.
What Is a Double Crochet Stitch?
The double crochet (abbreviated dc) is one of the four basic crochet stitches, alongside the single crochet, half double crochet and treble crochet. It is a tall stitch, about three chains high. Because it is taller than a single crochet, it works up faster and makes a softer, more flexible fabric with a little drape. That is why you see it in blankets, scarves, shawls, hats and granny squares.
US vs UK Terms: Check This Before You Start
This tutorial uses US terms. Crochet patterns come in two naming systems, and mixing them up is the number one reason a beginner’s work turns out the wrong size.
| US term | UK term |
| Single crochet (sc) | Double crochet (dc) |
| Half double crochet (hdc) | Half treble (htr) |
| Double crochet (dc) | Treble (tr) |
| Treble crochet (tr) | Double treble (dtr) |
A quick way to tell which system your pattern uses: if you see “single crochet” or “sc” anywhere, it is a US pattern. UK patterns have no single crochet. The pattern’s notes or abbreviations list will usually say as well.
What You Need
- Yarn: a smooth, light colored worsted weight (medium, category 4) yarn. Light colors make your stitches easier to see, and a smooth yarn splits less than a fuzzy one.
- Hook: a 5.0 mm (size H8) crochet hook is a good match for worsted yarn. Hooks with an ergonomic handle are comfortable for long practice sessions.
- Scissors and a yarn needle for finishing.
- A stitch marker (a safety pin works) to mark your turning chain.
How to Double Crochet: Step by Step
Start with a slip knot on your hook, then make a foundation chain of 22 stitches. This gives you a practice row of 20 double crochets. Do not count the loop on your hook as a chain.
Step 1: Yarn over. Wrap the yarn from back to front over the hook. This is called a yarn over (yo). Many beginners stumble here, so make sure the yarn sits over the hook and not under it.
Step 2: Insert the hook into the 4th chain from the hook. The three chains you skip count as your first double crochet stitch, so this is where the first real stitch goes.
Step 3: Yarn over and pull up a loop. Catch the yarn and draw it back through the chain. You now have three loops on your hook.
Step 4: Yarn over and pull through two loops. You now have two loops left on the hook.
Step 5: Yarn over and pull through the last two loops. You now have one loop on the hook. That is your first double crochet stitch.
Step 6: Repeat across the row. Yarn over, insert the hook into the next chain, and repeat steps 3 to 5 in every chain. When you reach the end, count your stitches. You should have 20, including the skipped chains as the first one.
If you want something to remember, say it as you work: yarn over, insert, yarn over and pull up, yarn over and pull through two, yarn over and pull through two. Once your hands know the rhythm, you will not need the words.
How to Start the Next Row
- Chain 3. This is your turning chain, and it raises your yarn to the height of a double crochet.
- Turn your work, the way you would turn a page in a book.
- Skip the first stitch at the base of the chain 3, because the turning chain already stands in for it.
- Double crochet into each stitch across.
- Work your final double crochet into the top of the turning chain from the row below.
That last stitch is the one beginners forget, and forgetting it makes your edges shrink row after row. Slip a stitch marker into the top of the turning chain so you can spot it when you come back.
How Many Chains Do You Turn With?
Each stitch needs a different turning chain to match its height:
- Single crochet: chain 1
- Half double crochet: chain 2
- Double crochet: chain 3
- Treble crochet: chain 4
Some patterns use chain 2 for double crochet and treat it as a shorter turn. For most beginner projects, chain 3 gives cleaner edges, and it is what most US patterns expect. Follow your pattern if it says otherwise.
Common Double Crochet Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Your piece keeps getting narrower. You are probably skipping the last stitch, the top of the turning chain. Mark it and count your stitches after every row.
Your piece keeps getting wider. You may be working a stitch into the base of the turning chain as well as skipping it. Remember: skip that first stitch.
The edges look wavy or ruffled. Your tension is likely uneven, or your turning chain is loose. Try making the chain slightly tighter and relax your grip on the yarn.
Your stitches look tight and hard to work into. Do not pull the yarn so tightly. Loosen your hold, or go up one hook size.
You cannot tell where to put the hook. Look for the “V” shaped loops at the top of the stitch. Insert your hook under both of the top loops unless the pattern says otherwise.
You are following the wrong terms. If your swatch looks much smaller than the pattern photo, double check whether the pattern is US or UK.
Left Handed Double Crochet
The stitch is made the same way, but everything is mirrored. You hold the hook in your left hand, work from right to left, and turn your work in the opposite direction. The easiest way to learn is to watch a left handed video tutorial, or to prop a mirror next to a right handed one and copy the reflection.
Double Crochet vs Single Crochet vs Half Double Crochet
- Single crochet is short and dense, which makes it good for amigurumi, bags and anything that needs structure.
- Half double crochet sits in the middle and works up quickly with a textured look.
- Double crochet is the tallest of the three and is the best choice when you want speed, drape and a softer fabric.
A Simple Practice Project
Make a 20 stitch double crochet scarf swatch. Chain 22, double crochet across following the steps above, then chain 3 and turn for each new row. Repeat until the piece is the length you want. A simple scarf or dishcloth gives you plenty of repetition, and by row 5 you will likely stop thinking about each step.
Once you are comfortable, try these double crochet variations:
- Front post double crochet for ribbing and texture
- Double crochet cluster for decorative stitches
- Double crochet in the round for hats, granny squares and coasters
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the double crochet stitch?
It is a tall crochet stitch made by wrapping the yarn over the hook before inserting it, then pulling through two loops twice. In US patterns it is abbreviated dc.
Is double crochet hard for beginners?
It is one of the easier stitches to learn. It has a few more steps than a single crochet, but the repetitive rhythm clicks quickly with practice.
Does the turning chain count as a stitch in double crochet?
Yes, in most US patterns the chain 3 counts as your first double crochet. You skip the stitch at its base and work your last stitch into the top of the chain.
How many chains do you need for a double crochet?
Chain 3 to turn for a new row. For a foundation chain, add 3 chains to the number of stitches you want, and start in the 4th chain from the hook.
Is a US double crochet the same as a UK double crochet?
No. A US double crochet is called a treble crochet in the UK, and a UK double crochet is the US single crochet.
What size hook should I use for double crochet?
A 5.0 mm (H8) hook with worsted weight yarn is a reliable starting point.
Why does my double crochet look uneven?
Usually from uneven tension, a skipped turning chain stitch, or an extra stitch at the start of a row. Count your stitches after each row until it becomes habit.
Final Tips
Slow down for the first few rows, count your stitches often, and keep your first swatch so you can see how your tension improves. When you feel ready, browse beginner friendly patterns that use double crochet, such as simple blankets, scarves and granny squares.