How to Double Crochet for Beginners – Step by Step
Learning how to double crochet for beginners is a useful next step after chain stitch and single crochet. Double crochet creates a taller, more open fabric and works up faster than shorter stitches, making it common in scarves, blankets, granny-style projects, and many simple patterns.
What Is Double Crochet?
In US crochet terminology, double crochet is abbreviated dc. It is taller than single crochet because the stitch begins with a yarn over and is completed by pulling through loops in stages. Standard abbreviations are listed by the Craft Yarn Council.
What You Need
- Smooth, light-colored yarn
- A crochet hook recommended for your yarn
- Scissors
If you are brand new to crochet, review our chain stitch tutorial first. Our crochet hook sizes guide can also help you choose a hook.
How to Double Crochet Step by Step
- Make a practice chain. Chain about 15 to 20 stitches.
- Yarn over. Wrap the working yarn over the hook from back to front.
- Insert the hook. For a basic practice row, follow your pattern’s turning-chain instructions and insert into the next designated chain.
- Pull up a loop. Yarn over and draw the yarn through the chain. You should now have three loops on the hook.
- Pull through two. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops. Two loops remain.
- Pull through two again. Yarn over and pull through the final two loops. One double crochet is complete.
- Repeat across. Continue the same sequence in each stitch.
Turning for the Next Row
Double crochet rows usually begin with a turning chain. Whether that turning chain counts as the first stitch depends on the pattern. Read the instructions carefully and use the same method throughout the project so the edges stay consistent.
How to Count Double Crochet Stitches
Look at the top edge for V-shaped stitch tops and follow each vertical post downward. Count at the end of every row, especially while learning. A stitch marker at the first or last true stitch can help prevent accidental increases or decreases.
Where to Insert the Hook
Unless the pattern says otherwise, work under both top loops of the next stitch. Variations such as front-loop-only or back-loop-only double crochet create different textures, but standard double crochet uses both loops.
Common Beginner Problems
The sides are slanting
You may be missing an edge stitch or adding an extra stitch into the turning chain. Count each row and decide clearly whether your pattern treats the turning chain as a stitch.
The stitches are too loose
Keep the loops controlled around the shaft of the hook instead of stretching them upward. Consistent hand position matters more than pulling the yarn tightly.
The fabric is too stiff
Relax your tension or try a slightly larger hook. Double crochet normally creates a more flexible, open fabric than single crochet.
Practice Ideas
Practice several rows as a small swatch, then compare the texture with single crochet. You can also use double crochet while practicing a granny square or learning how to read crochet patterns.
Final Thoughts
Double crochet becomes much easier once the yarn-over and pull-through sequence feels automatic. Work slowly, count stitches at the end of each row, and keep your tension relaxed while practicing.
Photo: Karina L via Unsplash.
