How to Make the Double Crochet Stitch

Crocheting allows you to create beautiful and intricate designs with just a hook and some yarn. If you’re new to crocheting or looking to expand your skills, mastering the double crochet stitch is a fantastic place to start.

In this beginner-friendly guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to crochet a double crochet swatch, offering helpful tips and insights.

Why Learn the Double Crochet Stitch?

The double crochet stitch is a basic stitch in crocheting and is widely used in a variety of projects, including scarves, blankets, and garments.

Learning how to crochet the double crochet stitch will open up a world of possibilities for you as a crocheter, allowing you to tackle more complex patterns and create stunning pieces with ease.

Materials You’ll Need:

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather the materials you’ll need to crochet your double-crochet swatch:

Worsted weight yarn (choose a color you love)
Crochet hook ( size H/8 or 5.0 mm is recommended for worsted weight yarn)
Scissors
Yarn needle ( for weaving in ends)

Once you have your materials ready, let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Guide to Crocheting a Double Crochet Swatch:

1. Make a Slip Knot:

Start by making a slip knot and place it on your crochet hook. This will serve as the first stitch of your swatch.

2. Foundation Chain:

Chain a multiple of stitches according to your desired swatch width. For example, you can chain 20 stitches for a small swatch or 30 stitches for a larger swatch.

Remember to add a few extra chains to account for the turning chain.

3. Begin the First Row:

To start the first row of double crochet stitches (dc), YO (wrap the yarn over your hook from back to front) and insert your crochet hook into the fourth chain from your hook.

4. Yarn Over and Pull Through:

Yarn over again and pull up a loop through the chain stitch. You now have three loops left on your crochet hook. Yarn over once more and pull the yarn through the first two loops.

If you’ve followed the steps so far, you’ll have two loops left on the crochet hook.

5. Finish the Double Crochet Stitch:

Yarn over one final time and pull through the two loops to remain with one loop on your crochet hook. Congratulations, You’ve completed your first dc stitch!

6. Continue Across the Row:

Repeat steps 4 to 6 in each chain stitch across the row until you reach the end. Remember to yarn over before inserting your hook into each chain stitch.

7. Chain and Turn:

Once you’ve reached the end of the row, chain three (this serves as the turning chain for the next row) and then turn your work.

8. Start the Second Row

To begin the second row of double crochet stitches, skip the first stitch (which is the turning chain) and insert your crochet hook into the second stitch.

9. Repeat the double crochet stitch:

Yarn over, inserting your hook into the next stitch, and complete a double crochet stitch following the same steps as before.

10. Continue Across and Repeat:

Repeat step 9 in each stitch across the row until you reach the end.

11. Chain and Turn:

Repeat step 7 to create additional rows of double crochet stitches. Each row should have the same number of stitches as the previous row.

Continue crocheting rows of double crochet stitches until your swatch reaches your desired length. Once you’re finished, fasten off your yarn and use a yarn needle, to weave in any loose ends.

Tips for Success:

Keep your tension even throughout your swatch to ensure consistent stitches.

Practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. With practice, your stitches will become more uniform and neat.

Experiment with different yarn colors and textures to create unique and beautiful swatches.

Take your time and enjoy the process. Crocheting is a relaxing and enjoyable hobby, so don’t rush yourself.

Conclusion:

Congratulations, You’ve successfully crocheted a double crochet swatch! With this foundational stitch under your belt, you’re well on your way to becoming a skilled and confident crocheter.

Whether you’re a beginner just starting or an experienced crocheter looking to refine your skills, mastering the double crochet stitch is an essential step in your crocheting journey.

So grab your hook and yarn, and try working with double crochet stitches.

Happy stitching!