Hey there, fellow yarn wrangler! If you’ve already dipped your toes into the world of crochet (or are standing at the edge, curious but unsure), you’ve probably heard about double crochet, often shortened to dc in patterns. It’s one of those stitches that shows up everywhere—blankets, scarves, sweaters, you name it. But don’t worry—it’s way easier than it sounds, and once you learn it, you’ll be whipping up gorgeous projects like nobody’s business.
Let’s roll up those sleeves and get looping!
What is Double Crochet?
Double crochet is one of the most popular stitches in the crochet universe. It’s taller than a single crochet, which means your projects grow faster (yes, please!). It creates a fabric that’s soft, flexible, and just a bit airy. Think cozy, breathable shawls or those chunky baby blankets everyone loves to squish.
In UK patterns, this same stitch is called a treble crochet. Confusing, I know—but here on this blog, we’re sticking with US terms to keep things consistent.
What You’ll Need
- Yarn (any kind will do, but something smooth is easier to practice with)
- A matching crochet hook (check your yarn label for a size suggestion)
- A comfy chair and maybe a cup of tea ☕
How to Double Crochet (Step-by-Step)
Let’s keep it simple. Here’s how you make a double crochet stitch:
1. Start with a foundation chain
Make a chain—about 15 stitches is perfect for practice.
2. Yarn over
Wrap the yarn over your hook once.
3. Insert your hook
Skip the first three chains (they count as your first double crochet), and insert your hook into the fourth chain from the hook.
4. Yarn over again
Wrap the yarn over your hook and pull it through the chain. You should have three loops on your hook now.
5. Yarn over and pull through two
Now yarn over again and pull through the first two loops on your hook. You’ll be left with two loops.
6. Yarn over and pull through two (again)
Do it one more time—yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops. Ta-da! You’ve just made a double crochet stitch!
Repeat across the row, and you’ll have a lovely row of tall stitches. When you get to the end, chain 3 and turn your work to start the next row.
Handy Tips
- Don’t crochet too tightly—loose and relaxed is the way to go.
- Count your stitches each row to keep the edges straight.
- Practice makes... really pretty things.
Free Video Tutorial on How to Double Crochet
Just in case you're a visual learner, here's also a video which shows you in motion how to make the double crochet stitch.
So easy, you'll see.
Why You'll Love Double Crochet
Double crochet is the stitch of possibilities. It’s fast, it’s friendly, and it works beautifully in both simple and complex patterns. Want to make a beginner’s scarf? Use double crochet. Dreaming of a lacy shawl? Yep, that too. It’s a great all-rounder.
And if you're wondering, “What’s next?”—stay tuned! I’ve got tutorials coming up on granny squares, shell stitches, and all the fun stitches that take your crochet from “just starting” to “can’t stop.”
Try It Out: Easy Double Crochet Practice Square
Here’s a quick little pattern you can try right now:
Practice Square Pattern
- Chain 16.
- Row 1: Double crochet in the 4th chain from the hook. Double crochet across the row. (14 dc)
- Row 2–10: Chain 3, turn. Double crochet in each stitch across. (14 dc)
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Boom! You’ve just made your first swatch!
Water bottle holder cozy crochet pattern
I have been helping a reader work through a new crochet pattern. The water bottle cozy crochet pattern. Love it. It’s such a great tutorial to learn how to crochet, helping you learn how to crochet using a range of stitches and interesting patterns.
More Free Crochet Patterns
Now, if you want to try it in a project, here are some of the free crochet patterns you can find on Fine Craft Guild.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to double crochet is a game-changer. It opens up so many doors in the crochet world, and trust me—once you get the rhythm, it’s super relaxing. Whether you're watching your favorite show or hanging out with friends, your hands can be happily stitching away.
If you want to expand on your arsenal of stitches, also see this page on how to make the top 10 most popular crochet stitches.
Got questions or want to show off your first double crochet project? Drop a comment on our Facebook page—I’d love to cheer you on!
Happy hooking
FineCraftGuild
First published Oct 1, 2010. Updated April 14, 2025.
