How to double crochet for beginners

Double crochet is one of the most popular beginner crochet stitches. It is taller than single crochet and half double crochet, so it works up quickly and creates a soft, flexible fabric.

Once you learn this stitch, you can use it to make blankets, scarves, hats, garments, granny squares, and more.

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to double crochet step by step, plus helpful tips for working in rows and rounds, counting stitches, and avoiding common mistakes.

What is a double crochet stitch?

The double crochet stitch is a basic crochet stitch that is taller than single crochet and half double crochet. Because it is taller, it creates a fabric with more drape and openness than shorter stitches.

Double crochet also works up quickly, which makes it a great stitch for larger projects like blankets and shawls.

If you are brand new to crochet, you may want to start with my how to single crochet tutorial, or learn how to half double crochet before moving on to double crochet.

What is double crochet used for?

Double crochet is used in many beginner and advanced crochet patterns. It works well when you want a stitch that is soft, flexible, and quick to make.

Double crochet is a great choice for:

• crochet blankets
• crochet scarves
• crochet hats
• shawls and wraps
• sweaters and garments
• crochet squares
• bags and accessories
• projects that need more drape and openness

Double crochet abbreviation

US term: double crochet
US abbreviation: dc

UK term: treble crochet
UK abbreviation: tr

Many crochet patterns written in the United States use dc to represent the double crochet stitch.

Skill level

Beginner

Double crochet is often one of the first stitches beginners learn after single crochet and half double crochet.

Materials needed

• Yarn – A smooth, light-colored worsted weight yarn works best for practice because the stitches are easier to see.
• Crochet hook – Use the hook size recommended on your yarn label. A 5 mm crochet hook works well with worsted weight yarn.
• Scissors – Used to trim yarn when finished.
• Yarn needle – Used to weave in yarn ends when the project is complete.

If you are not sure which hook to use, my crochet hook sizes guide explains how hook sizes work and how to choose the right one for your yarn.

How to hold the yarn and hook

There are several ways to hold a crochet hook. Two common methods are the pencil grip and the knife grip.

Choose whichever grip feels most comfortable for you.

Use your opposite hand to guide the yarn and control your tension. This may feel awkward at first, but it becomes easier with practice.

How to make a foundation chain

Before starting double crochet stitches, you need to create a foundation chain.

1. Make a slip knot and place it on your hook.
2. Yarn over the hook.
3. Pull the yarn through the loop on your hook to make a chain stitch.
4. Repeat until you reach the number of chains needed.

Try to keep your chain relaxed. If your foundation chain is too tight, it can be hard to work into later.

How to double crochet step by step

Follow these steps to make a double crochet stitch.

1. Yarn over your hook.
2. Insert the hook into the next stitch or chain.
3. Yarn over and pull up a loop. You should now have three loops on your hook.
4. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops.
5. Yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops.

You have now completed one double crochet stitch.

Where to insert your hook

Insert your hook into the next chain or stitch. If you are working into a chain, the pattern will usually tell you how many chains from the hook to skip before making your first stitch.

If you are working into regular stitches, insert your hook under the top loops of the next stitch unless the pattern says otherwise.

Beginner note: Most crochet stitches are worked under the top two loops of the stitch, but some patterns may tell you to work into a different loop or space.

Turning chain for double crochet

When crocheting in rows, you usually begin each new row with a turning chain.

For double crochet, the turning chain is typically 3 chains.

This raises the yarn to the correct height for the next row of stitches.

Some crocheters prefer to chain 2 instead of chain 3 for double crochet because it can create a neater edge. Both methods are common, so always follow the pattern notes.

Does the turning chain count as a stitch?

In many crochet patterns, the chain 3 turning chain counts as the first stitch of the row. When this is the case, you usually skip the first stitch and work your first double crochet into the next stitch.

Some designers do not count the turning chain as a stitch. When the turning chain does not count, you usually work your first double crochet into the first stitch.

Always check the pattern notes before you begin so you know whether the turning chain counts as a stitch.

If pattern notes feel confusing, my how to read a crochet pattern guide explains abbreviations, stitch counts, repeats, and US vs UK crochet terms.

In the practice swatch below, the turning chain does not count as a stitch.

How to double crochet in rows

Crocheting in rows means working back and forth across the fabric.

At the end of each row, you turn your work and crochet across again. This method is commonly used for blankets, scarves, dishcloths, and flat garment panels.

Rows create a flat piece of fabric with a right side and wrong side.

Practice swatch for beginners

The easiest way to practice double crochet is by making a small swatch.

Chain 15.

Row 1: Double crochet in the fourth chain from the hook and in each chain across. You will have 12 double crochet stitches.

Row 2: Chain 3, turn, double crochet in the first stitch and in each stitch across. You will have 12 double crochet stitches.

Repeat Row 2 until your swatch reaches the desired length.

If your finished project needs to be a certain size, my crochet gauge guide explains how to make and measure a gauge swatch.

How to double crochet in the round

Double crochet can also be worked in the round.

Crocheting in the round means working counter-clockwise in a circle instead of back and forth in rows. Some patterns use joined rounds, while others use continuous rounds.

Many projects worked in the round begin with either a magic ring or a chain ring.

• A magic ring is an adjustable loop that can be pulled closed after the first round of stitches.
• A chain ring is made by chaining a small number of stitches and joining them with a slip stitch to form a circle.

After the center ring is made, double crochet stitches are worked into the middle of the ring. Each new round builds outward. For a full step-by-step tutorial, see my magic ring tutorial.

If you plan to crochet a hat, my crochet hat sizing guide explains how to measure head circumference and choose the correct hat size.

What double crochet looks like

Double crochet stitches are taller than single crochet stitches. The rows look more open, and the fabric has more drape.

Each double crochet stitch has a clear V shape at the top. This is where you work the next row of stitches.

Double crochet fabric is soft and flexible, which makes it useful for blankets, garments, shawls, and other projects where you want movement and drape.

How to count double crochet stitches

To count double crochet stitches, look at the top of the row and count each V shape as one stitch.

If your turning chain counts as a stitch, include it in your stitch count. If your turning chain does not count as a stitch, do not count it.

Counting your stitches at the end of each row is one of the best ways to keep your edges straight. It also helps you catch mistakes before they become harder to fix.

For more help with stitch counts, see my how to count crochet stitches guide.

Double crochet increase and decrease

Double crochet stitches can be used to shape a project.

A double crochet increase is made by working two double crochet stitches into the same stitch. This adds stitches and makes the project wider.

A double crochet decrease works two stitches together and turns them into one stitch.

Increases and decreases are often used when shaping hats, garments, amigurumi, and other crochet projects.

Common double crochet mistakes

Beginners sometimes run into small problems while learning double crochet. These are common and easy to fix with practice.

• Missing the last stitch — This can make your rows slowly become smaller. The last stitch can be easy to miss, especially if the turning chain counts as a stitch.
• Adding extra stitches — This can happen if you accidentally work into the turning chain when you are not supposed to.
• Forgetting the yarn over at the beginning — Double crochet always starts with a yarn over before you insert your hook into the stitch.
• Crocheting too tightly — Tight stitches can make it difficult to insert your hook. Try to relax your hands and use a smooth practice yarn.
• Uneven edges — Uneven edges are often caused by missed stitches, extra stitches, or confusion about whether the turning chain counts as a stitch.

For more beginner help, my crochet mistakes beginners make guide explains common problems like skipped stitches, uneven tension, messy edges, and tight chains.

Tips for beginners

These tips can help make learning double crochet easier.

• Use light-colored yarn when practicing.
• Choose smooth yarn instead of fuzzy yarn.
• Count your stitches at the end of each row.
• Place a stitch marker in the first or last stitch if needed.
• Practice slowly until the movement feels comfortable.
• Read the pattern notes to see if the turning chain counts as a stitch.
• Keep your foundation chain relaxed so it is easier to work into.

Double crochet stitch variations

Once you know the basic double crochet stitch, you can try several variations that add texture or shaping.

Popular variations include:

• double crochet increase
• double crochet decrease
• front post double crochet
• back post double crochet
• double crochet cluster stitches
• shell stitches
• V-stitches

These variations are often used to create texture, shape crochet projects, and make decorative stitch patterns.

Beginner patterns that use double crochet

Double crochet is used in many beginner-friendly crochet patterns.

Once you feel comfortable with the stitch, try using it in simple projects like:

• crochet blankets
• crochet scarves
• crochet hats
• squares
• shawls and wraps

These projects are a great way to practice double crochet while creating something useful.

For a simple blanket project, try my easy double crochet blanket pattern. It uses basic double crochet stitches and is a great project for beginners.

For a simple hat project, try my basic crochet beanie pattern. It is worked with easy double crochet stitches and includes seven sizes from preemie to adult.

If you want to use double crochet for a blanket, my crochet blanket sizes explained guide can help you choose the right finished size.

Frequently asked questions

What does dc mean in crochet?
In crochet patterns, dc stands for double crochet.

Is double crochet beginner friendly?
Yes. Double crochet is considered a beginner crochet stitch and is often taught after single crochet and half double crochet.

Where do I insert my hook for double crochet?
Insert your hook under both loops at the top of the stitch unless the pattern says otherwise.

Does chain 3 count as a stitch in double crochet?
In many patterns, chain 3 counts as the first double crochet stitch. However, some designers do not count it as a stitch. Always check the pattern notes before you begin.

Can I chain 2 instead of chain 3 for double crochet?
Yes. Some crocheters use chain 2 instead of chain 3 because it can create a neater edge. Always follow the pattern you are using, because the designer will usually tell you whether the turning chain counts as a stitch.

Is double crochet taller than single crochet?
Yes. Double crochet is taller than single crochet and half double crochet.

What is the difference between single crochet and double crochet?
Single crochet is shorter and creates a tighter fabric. Double crochet is taller and creates a softer, more open fabric with more drape.

What can I make with double crochet?
You can use double crochet to make blankets, scarves, hats, shawls, sweaters, granny squares, bags, and many other crochet projects.

Final thoughts

Now that you know how to double crochet, you can use this stitch in so many beginner-friendly projects.

Practice with a small swatch first, then try using double crochet to make a blanket, hat, scarf, shawl, or square.

The more you practice, the easier it will be to recognize your stitches, keep your edges straight, and follow crochet patterns with confidence.

For more project ideas, browse my free crochet patterns collection.

Let’s connect!

I’d love to see what you’re making! Share your finished project and follow along for more free crochet patterns and tutorials.

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📌 Don’t forget to pin this pattern for later!
Happy crocheting! 🧶
— Melissa