The Double Crochet (dc) is one of the most important stitches to know in crochet. It is used in many patterns, and is absolutely necessary when designing.
Characteristics of the Double Crochet
The double crochet stitch (dc) is twice as tall as the single crochet; it is exactly as wide. It can be used just about everywhere, and since it is used often to make geometric shapes, like circles, a crocheter can’t get too far before mastering knowledge of this stitch.
Making the Double Crochet
When mastered, dc’s stitch up very quickly, and seasoned crocheters can make one so fast that it looks like it’s completed in one fluid motion. However, the dc is comprised of a few steps, and each one is essential if the dc is to be made correctly.
To get started, look very closely at Figure 1. A foundation chain has been made (the foundation chain should look similar to Figure 1 in The Crochet Foundation Chain.) While holding the foundation chain with the crochet hook in the last loop, complete a yarnover. Then, insert the hook into the fourth loop away from the hook; it’s important to slip the crochet hook under the two front beams of that loop, not just one. At this point, execute one more yarn-over.
The three loops that were passed make up one double crochet because a dc has the same height as they do; in other words, those three loops are making up the first dc in the coming row. That stitch enters the count in a pattern just like any other dc stitch. It takes the place of one dc.
Pull the YO (yarn-over) through the fourth loop, again taking care that it passes under two beams of the loop. The hook should now look like Figure 2.
Yarn over again as in Figure 3. Finally, pull this last yo through both loops on the hook. The dc is completed, and is pictured in Figure 4.
Looking Closely at the Double Crochet
Take a moment to examine Figure 4. To the far right, there are the three loops that were skipped. Next to the stitch they made is the double crochet that was just finished. Notice how they both are equal in height.
Practicing the Double Crochet
A video is available at NexStitch Double Crochet. The only thing to keep in mind when viewing this video is that it is preferable to insert the crochet hook under two bars when building from the foundation row. This video illustrates the YO being pulled under only one bar when crocheting the first row, and while this will work, it will leave bigger holes and it will not be as stable. Other than that (and “that” is really only preference), the video does an excellent job.
Continue as called for in a pattern, or better yet, practice making the dc until comfortable. Get to know the dc, as it is probably the most popular stitch in all of crochet.
Related Articles: The Single Crochet Stitch , The Slipknot, The Triple Crochet Stitch, The Half Double Crochet Stitch and The Crochet Foundation Chain.
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