US dc · UK tr · beginner

Double Crochet: step-by-step tutorial

Double crochet is a tall, versatile crochet stitch about twice the height of single crochet. Yarn over, insert the hook, and pull up a loop for three loops on the hook. Yarn over and pull through two loops, then yarn over and pull through the last two loops.

By the crochetpatterns.io editorial team · Reviewed September 13, 2026 · Editorial policy

US terms UK terms

How to double crochet, step by step

Yo once.
Insert the hook into the fourth chain from the hook, or into the next stitch.
Yo and pull up a loop — 3 loops on hook.
Yo and pull through 2 loops — 2 loops on hook.
Yo and pull through the last 2 loops — 1 dc made.
Repeat across, then ch 3 and turn for the next row.

How do you double crochet for beginners?

To double crochet, yarn over, insert the hook, pull up a loop, then complete the stitch by pulling through two loops twice. Say “yarn over, through two” out loud for the first few rows.

A good practice swatch is 15 chains in medium weight yarn with a 5 mm hook, worked for 8 rows.

Basic crochet stitch heights and turning chains (US terms)
Stitch	US abbr.	UK name	Height vs sc	Turning chain
Slip stitch	sl st	Slip stitch	Almost none	0
Single crochet	sc	Double crochet	1×	1
Half double crochet	hdc	Half treble	About 1.5×	2
Double crochet	dc	Treble	About 2×	3
Treble crochet	tr	Double treble	About 3×	4

What is the difference between US and UK double crochet?

US double crochet is the stitch UK patterns call treble crochet. UK double crochet is the stitch US patterns call single crochet.

Reading a UK pattern with US stitches makes the project roughly twice as tall as intended, so confirm the terminology before buying yarn.

Why are there gaps at the edge of my double crochet rows?

Edge gaps usually come from a loose ch 3 turning chain. Replacing it with a chainless starting double crochet or a stacked single crochet closes the gap.

Another option is ch 2 and a first dc in the first stitch, with the ch 2 not counted.