The double crochet stitch is one of the most popular and versatile stitches in all of crochet. It works up twice as fast as single crochet, creates a beautiful open texture, and forms the foundation of hundreds of patterns — from cozy blankets and market bags to stylish cardigans and home décor. If you want to expand your crochet skills, mastering the double crochet is your next big step.
What is Double Crochet?
Double crochet (abbreviated dc) is a tall basic stitch that creates fabric with a slightly open, airy drape. Each stitch is made by yarning over before inserting the hook, giving it extra height compared to single crochet. It's one of the four fundamental crochet stitches and is used in patterns across every category — clothing, accessories, blankets, and toys.
In UK terminology, what Americans call "double crochet" is called "treble crochet" — just a naming difference, same stitch. If you're following a UK pattern, keep that in mind.
Watch: Double Crochet Video Tutorial
Watch this beginner-friendly video to see the double crochet stitch broken down step by step. Pay close attention to the yarn-over before inserting the hook — that's what makes it different from single crochet.
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Materials You'll Need
- Crochet hook — A 5mm (H/8) or 5.5mm (I/9) hook works great for learning.
- Yarn — Medium-weight worsted weight (#4) yarn in a solid, light color so you can see each stitch clearly.
- Scissors — For cutting yarn at the end.
- Yarn needle — To weave in your ends neatly.
Step-by-Step Written Guide
- Start with a foundation chain. Make a slip knot and chain 20 stitches for practice. Each chain will become the base of one double crochet.
- Yarn over (YO). Before inserting your hook into the chain, wrap the yarn over your hook from back to front. You now have 2 loops on your hook.
- Insert hook into the 4th chain from hook. (The first 3 chains count as your first dc.) Push your hook through the chain stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop. You now have 3 loops on your hook.
- Yarn over and pull through 2 loops. You now have 2 loops remaining on your hook.
- Yarn over and pull through the last 2 loops. One double crochet complete! You now have 1 loop left on your hook.
- Continue across the row. Work one dc into each chain across. At the end of the row, chain 3 and turn.
- Work rows 2 and beyond. The turning chain (ch-3) counts as your first dc. Skip the first stitch directly below and dc into each stitch across. End with a dc into the top of the turning chain from the previous row.
- Fasten off when done. Cut yarn, pull through the last loop, and weave in ends with your needle.
Pattern Tips & Variations
- Half double crochet (hdc) — One step shorter, creates a denser fabric. Perfect for hats and scarves.
- Treble crochet (tr) — One step taller than dc. Used for lacier, more open fabric and decorative stitches.
- Shell stitch — Made by working 5 dc stitches into the same stitch, creating a fan/shell shape. Beautiful for baby blankets and shawls.
- V-stitch — Work dc, ch 1, dc into the same stitch for an airy diamond pattern great for wraps and tops.
- Granny squares — Built almost entirely with double crochet stitches worked in the round. A classic beginner project once you know your dc.
Download the PDF Pattern
Now that you know the double crochet stitch, put it to work! Our Crochet Pattern Bundle includes beautiful PDF patterns that use dc as their main stitch — all ready for instant download with commercial use rights included.
👉 Download the Crochet PDF Pattern Bundle — Instant Download, Commercial Use Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Is double crochet hard to learn?
Not at all — once you understand the yarn-over sequence, it becomes automatic within minutes of practice. Most beginners who know single crochet can learn double crochet in one short session.
What's the difference between single and double crochet?
Single crochet (sc) creates a tight, dense fabric. Double crochet (dc) is taller and creates a more open, drapey fabric that works up much faster. Double crochet is generally used for larger projects like blankets and garments.
How many chains do I skip at the start of a double crochet row?
For the foundation row, skip the first 3 chains and start your first dc in the 4th chain from the hook. The skipped chains count as your first stitch. For subsequent rows, chain 3, turn, skip the first stitch, and dc across.
Can I use double crochet for amigurumi?
Amigurumi is typically worked in single crochet because it creates a tight fabric that holds stuffing. However, double crochet is used in larger amigurumi and for clothing or accessories for your stuffed animals.