HazelLoopUK

Learn to crochet · lesson 5 of 12 · about 20 minutes

How to double crochet (UK dc, US single crochet)

To double crochet in UK terms, put the hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop so you have two loops on the hook, then yarn over and pull through both. It’s the same stitch as the US single crochet (sc). Most UK patterns start each row with 1 chain that doesn’t count as a stitch.

You’ll need

  • 4mm hook
  • DK yarn
  • a stitch marker (optional)

Step by step

  1. 1Chain one more than you need

    For a row of 15 double crochet (dc), make 16 chains. The extra chain gives the first stitch its height.

    1Yarn over2Pull through the loop on the hookCount the V shapes, not the loop on the hook

  2. 2Go into the second chain from the hook

    Skip the chain next to the hook. Put the hook into the second chain, under two strands, so two strands sit on top of the hook and one below.

    1Insert, yarn over, pull up a loop (2 loops)2Yarn over, pull through both

  3. 3Pull up a loop

    Yarn over and pull the yarn through the chain. You have two loops on the hook.

  4. 4Finish the stitch

    Yarn over again and pull through both loops. One loop is left. That’s one double crochet.

  5. 5Work across the chain

    Make one dc in each chain to the end, including the very last chain. Count them: you should have 15.

  6. 6Chain 1 and turn

    Make 1 chain, then turn the work over so the other side faces you. This turning chain lifts the hook to the height of the stitch. In most UK patterns, and in this lesson, it doesn’t count as a stitch. One LoveCrafts tutorial treats it as the first stitch instead, so always follow your pattern’s notes.

    Turn the work at the end of each rowTurning chain: 1 for dc, 2 for htr, 3 for tr

  7. 7Work into the first stitch

    Look at the top of the row: each stitch has a V, like your chain. Put the hook under both loops of the V of the first stitch, the one right at the base of the turning chain. Make a dc there and in each stitch across, including the last one.

  8. 8Count and repeat

    Count the Vs at the end of every row, leaving out the turning chain. You should have 15. A marker clipped into the first stitch of a row makes it easier to find on the way back. Repeat steps 6 and 7 for each new row.

    Same count every rowMarker in first and last stitch

Check your work

Common mistakes

Missing the last stitch, so rows get shorter.
Work into the very last stitch of every row and count at the end of each row.
Forgetting the turning chain, so the start of each row slopes.
Always make 1 chain before you turn.
Working a stitch into the turning chain, so rows grow.
The ch 1 isn’t a stitch here. Skip it and start in the first real stitch.
A tight first row that puckers the chain.
Loosen your hold on the yarn. Almost everyone’s first row looks uneven, and the rows above get easier.

Practise

Chain 16 and work 10 rows of 15 dc. Count every row before you turn.

Double crochet UK vs US: terms chart →

Sources: simply-yarn.com, simply-yarn.com, simply-yarn.com, simply-yarn.com, lovecrafts.com, blog.bellacococrochet.com, craftyarncouncil.com, craftyarncouncil.com, yarnspirations.com, yarnspirations.com, yarnspirations.com, blog.clover-usa.com, blog.lionbrand.com. Written in UK terms; the US name is in brackets the first time a stitch appears.