How to Create a Double Crochet Stitch

What is Double Crochet?

The double crochet stitch is one of the most versatile stitches used in Crochet and is almost twice as tall as the single crochet. While the single crochet created a tightly dense project, the double crochet stitch creates a solid garment without being as stiff. This is because the gaps, or “holes” are created with this taller stitch. 

The double crochet is abbreviated as “dc” in patterns and is very common to use when creating scarves, hats, shawls and blankets. This post is going to walk you through the steps of how to double crochet and at the end will direct you towards a beginner friendly pattern using the double crochet stitch. 

What You’ll Need

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Crochet Hooks – aluminum crochet hooks are beginner friendly.

Yarn – acrylic worsted weight yarn is the best option for those just starting out crocheting. 

Note:  I recommended using a medium weight yarn (DK or worsted) and either a 5.0mm or 5.5mm crochet hook if you are just starting out learning how to crochet. 

How to Double Crochet

1. Chain 12

   Create a slip knot and chain 12. This includes your starting chain of 10+ 2. The 2 additional chains create the height of your first double crochet and will count as your first double crochet (unless the pattern says otherwise).

2. Yarn Over and Insert Hook

   First you want to yarn over your hook, back to front. Then insert your hook into the 3rd chain from the hook. Like previously mentioned, the two chains that you are skipping creates the first double crochet of the row. 
   

3. Yarn Over a Second Time and Pull Through

   Now you will yarn over again and hook your yarn, pull back through the chain (you will now have 3 loops on your hook).
   

4. Yarn Over and Pull Through 2 Loops

   Now yarn over again. Hook your yarn and pull the yarn through the first two loops (do not pull through the other loops). There will be two loops left on your hook. 
   

5. Yarn Over and Pull Through the Last Loop

   You will yarn over one last time, pulling through both loops on the hook. This will complete the double crochet stitch. 
   

6. Complete Row

   Now that you have completed your first double crochet, you should be able to see that the chain stitches that we skipped helps form what looks like a double crochet stitch. You will only skip these stitches in the foundation row (when crocheting into your chain). Continue working down the chain for a total of 10 double crochet. 

7. Turning Chain 

   Now that you’ve finished row 1, we will be creating our turning chain. We do this by chaining 3. Each time you begin a new row and turn your work, you will need to create this turning chain. This will act as your first double crochet of the round (again, unless the pattern says otherwise).
   

Continue on to complete your second row of double crochet stitches. You can continue to practice this stitch by adding on rows.