Learning how to double crochet is easy, and the technique expands your options for what you can make when you crochet. It's a great technique to use for items such as granny squares, hats, blankets, and bracelets, among others.
Step 1: Chain
Chain (ch) the required number of chain stitches to start your project. When you get to the end of the chain, then turn over the item.
Step 2: Yarn Over
Place the yarn over your hook (yo) so there are two loops on the hook.
Step 3: Three Loops on Hook
Push the hook through the third chain from the hook on your original chain. Grab the yarn to make an additional and pull the loop back through. Now you have three loops on your hook.
Step 4: Yarn Over and Pull Through Two Loops
YO again and pull through the first two loops on the hook.
Step 5: Yarn Over and Pull Through Last Two Loops
YO again and pull through the remaining two loops on the hook. Pull slightly to tighten. You have completed your first double crochet stitch.
Step 6: Second Row and Finishing Your Double Crochet
Continue steps 2 through 5 in each subsequent loop of the chain. When you get to the end of the chain, chain 3 and turn. Continue crocheting in the layer of stitches you just created. When you have finished your project, trim the yarn, pull the loop through, and then release the hook and pull the yarn with your fingers to bind the project. Weave any excess yarn into stitching with a needle.
How to Make a Large Double Crochet Project
If you know how to chain and double crochet, you can make a number of larger projects simply by completing multiple rows of double crochet stitches. You can add interest by changing colors during the process and weaving the ends in with a yarn needle.
- To make an afghan, chain between 120 and 130 and then complete between 150 and 160 double crochet rows using a J (6 mm) hook.
- To make a baby blanket, chain between 50 and 60 stitches and complete 20 to 25 rows using a J hook.
- To make a scarf, chain between 30 and 40 stitches and complete 140 to 160 rows using a J hook.
More Double Crochet Projects
There are a number of projects you can complete using the double crochet.
- Make dishcloths using a combination of chain, single crochet, and double crochet stitches.
- Make a crochet cellphone case.
- Crochet flowers are great for beginners, requiring only single, double, and chain stitches completed with a slipknot.
- This simple scarf uses a combination of double and single crochet.
Tips and Troubleshooting for Double Crochet
Double crochet stitches are reasonably straightforward, however, occasionally something goes wrong.
- If you accidentally pull too many or too few loops during your stitch, slide the needle from the loop and pull the trailing end of the yarn gently and slowly to remove the stitch.
- Always chain three between rows.
- In rows after the first one, always crochet through both the front and back loop of the stitch in the previous row.
- Counting stitches and rows is essential to creating a beautiful symmetrical project. Therefore, it's essential you come up with a way that works for you to allow you to count stitches accurately while you work.
- For projects, after the initial chain, always insert the hook into the third chain from the hook to start your first row of double stitches.
- Mind your tension. Keep your stitches reasonably loose so it's easy to work into the stitches as you move row by row.
Double Crochet Is a Great Beginner Stitch
Many novice crocheters learn the chain, double stitch, and single stitch first. Knowing these stitches are a great jumping off point for making a large number or projects. To become proficient, practice with something simple like a dish towel, scarf, or baby blanket so you can get used to counting your stitches and working your way through rows of double crochet.
