Have you decided to expand your skill in crochet? The basic stitch is the best bet. Let’s get started with double crochet (DC). Great choice! Everyone keeps talking about DC? Why? It is the second-most popular crochet stitch and can be used in rows and the round. You can easily create plenty of projects using crochet hooks. It is simple, so don’t worry; by the end of this post, you'll be double-crocheting like a seasoned pro and can show your skill worldwide.
Let’s begin the exciting journey in DC.
What do you understand by double crochet?
In simple terms, double crochet (often abbreviated as “DC”) is taller than single crochet and is one of the most common and versatile stitches in crochet. These stitches are formed by a "yarn over," which means wrapping yarn from back to front before placing the hook in the stitch. You must hold the foundation chain and yarn over and then insert the hook into the 4th chain from the hook. In the UK terminology, it is called a treble crochet (tr). If you are a beginner, learn how to crochet yarn over.
What tools do you need to start?
You can start with any yarn and single-ended crochet hooks that help you handle slippery yarn and pick up the stitches quickly. To know more about hooks, refer to our blog on selecting the right crochet hook for your project. You can use crochet accessories, which include scissors, a finishing needle, and stitch markers to assist you while working on DC.
Why to learn DC?
Firstly, it gives your work a bit more height, and texture, so your projects will look fancy even if you’ve just started learning crochet. Plus, it is perfect for creating most projects, from cozy blankets to stylish scarves. Believe us, you’ll be using these stitches a lot, so it’s worth learning.
Consider using wooden crochet hooks for a comfortable and warm feeling during the winter season.
Step-by-step procedure
Let’s break it down into simple steps.
Step 1: The first step is to make a slip knot. It is easy to create: make a loop, pull up a loop, and slip it onto the crochet hook.
Step 2: Then, make a foundation chain; for practice, let’s consider 10-15 stitches. This is the foundation of many projects.
Step 3: Next, to begin DC, yarn over, and insert the hook into the 4th chain from the hook. Why? This step ensures that your stitches have some height so that your stitches don’t look cramped.
Step 4: Now, your hook is in the chain, it’s time to pull some yarn through. You can see three loops on your hook.
Step 5: Yarn over again and pull it through the first two loops on the hook. Now, you have two loops left on the hook.
Step 6: Finally, yarn over for the last time, and pull through both remaining loops. Awesome! You just completed your very first double crochet stitch. Congratulations, you learned the new stitch.
Step 7: Now, continue to practice it across the row. Once you complete this, your stitches look super professional.
Step 8: Next, turn the work, and you can crochet another row. Then, chain three stitches to start a new row. It will count as your first double crochet. Just working into the next stitch and continue all the way across the row.
Whenever you come across double crochet (DC) go through the pattern instructions. First, check if you are working on a US or UK crochet pattern. Also ensure that you are working with regular crochet, the hybrid Tunisian crochet also has a double crochet stitch. If you are interested in knowing more, explore Tunisian crochet, which opens new possibilities for designs and patterns.
Common mistakes in Double Crochet and How to avoid them
As a beginner, don’t worry, if you make some mistakes. Here are some common issues that you can fix:
- If your stitches are too tight, it might be because you pull them tightly. So, relax your grip.
- If you get uneven edges, maybe, you forget to chain three at the start of each row or accidentally add extra stitches. So, count your stitches regularly.
- Sometimes you might accidentally twist the yarn when learning DC, but practice will make the process easy.
New to crochet? Learn the basic stitches of crochet which can be combined to create multiple projects.
What can you make with double crochet?
It’s fun (and a little addictive), and incredibly versatile. Once you’ve mastered it, you can make:
- A Simple Colorful Scarf: You can create a simple colorful scarf using double stockinette stitch. You can easily make two layers of fabric using one strand.
- Dishcloth: Knitting a dishcloth using a double stockinette stitch is a great way to master new skills. You need a small amount of yarn and pair of knitting needle. It’s a beginner-friendly and can be created quickly.
- Creative Suzette Baby Blanket: This is perfect for beginners; it is a one-row repeat and creates thicket stitches. So, grab your yarn and crochet hook set and create a stunning blanket for your baby.
- Beautiful Cocoon Cardigan: In this pattern, crochet a large rectangle and join it to form the cocoon cardigan. If you know DC, then it would be easy to make.
- Easy fingerless gloves: Are you looking to create more creative designs in the winter season? This pattern uses only DC and chain to create a simple wrist warmer.
Finally, you’ve learned the double crochet, one of the most important building blocks of crochet. You can proudly show your creative skills to your friends by creating beautiful designs. With practice, you’ll soon be crocheting faster and with more confidence. And before you know it, you’ll be ready to take on more challenging patterns.