How to Double Crochet

How to Double Crochet for Beginners

Learning how to double crochet is an essential skill for any beginner looking to dive into the world of crochet. The double crochet stitch is versatile, commonly used in a variety of patterns from blankets to scarves and beyond. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to master the double crochet stitch, ensuring you have a solid foundation to build on.

What You Will Need

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials:

• Yarn: Choose a medium-weight yarn, such as worsted weight, which is ideal for beginners.
• Crochet Hook: A size H/8 (5 mm) crochet hook is a good starting point.
• Scissors: For cutting the yarn when you’re finished.
• Yarn Needle: Useful for weaving in the ends.

Step-by-Step Guide to Double Crochet

1. Start with a Foundation Chain

• Begin by creating a slip knot and placing it on your crochet hook.
• Make a foundation chain by yarn over (YO) and pulling through the loop on the hook. Repeat this until you have the desired number of chains for your project. For practice, start with a chain of 15.

1. Yarn Over (YO)

• After completing your foundation chain, yarn over once more. This means wrapping the yarn from back to front over the hook.

1. Insert Hook

• Skip the first three chains from the hook (these skipped chains count as your first double crochet). Insert your hook into the fourth chain from the hook.

1. Yarn Over and Pull Through

• Yarn over again and pull the yarn through the chain. You should now have three loops on your hook.

1. Yarn Over and Draw Through Two Loops

• Yarn over once more and pull through the first two loops on the hook. You will have two loops remaining.

1. Yarn Over and Draw Through the Remaining Two Loops

• Yarn over again and pull through the final two loops on your hook. You have just completed one double crochet stitch.

1. Continue Along the Row

• Continue by making a double crochet stitch in each chain across the row. When you reach the end, you should have 12 double crochet stitches (not counting the 3 skipped chains at the beginning).

1. Turning Your Work

• When you reach the end of the row, chain three (this counts as your first double crochet of the next row). Turn your work so you can start the next row from right to left.

1. Repeat the Double Crochet Stitch

• Continue making double crochet stitches in each stitch across the row. Repeat this process until your piece reaches the desired length.

Tips for Beginners

• Practice Makes Perfect: Like any new skill, double crochet takes practice. Don’t be discouraged if your stitches aren’t perfect at first. Keep practicing, and you’ll see improvement over time.
• Tension Control: Keep your tension consistent. If your stitches are too tight, it will be difficult to insert your hook. If they are too loose, your project may look uneven.
• Count Your Stitches: It’s easy to accidentally add or lose stitches as you work. Count your stitches at the end of each row to ensure you have the correct number.

Now that you know how to double crochet, you’re well on your way to creating beautiful crochet projects. This stitch is fundamental in many patterns, so mastering it will open up a world of possibilities. For more beginner-friendly tutorials and tips, visit For Beginners and start your crochet journey today!

For additional resources and advanced techniques, check out this comprehensive guide to crochet, where you can explore even more crochet stitches and projects.