How to Double Crochet (dc) for Beginners: Step-by-Step Photo Guide
By Emma Collins • Original URL: https://crochetwithemma.com/how-to-double-crochet-stitch/
Master the tall, soft US double crochet stitch (dc) with clear beginner instructions, turning chain rules, and row-counting tips.
Skill Level: Absolute Beginner
Hook Size: 5.0 mm (US H-8)
Total Time: 20 mins
Yield: 4" x 4" Practice Coaster Swatch
Yarn Weight: Category 4 Medium Worsted Yarn
Gauge: 14 dc x 8 rows = 4" x 4" (10 x 10 cm)
Materials & Tools
25 yds smooth, light-colored worsted weight yarn (teal or sky blue makes stitches easy to see)
5.0 mm (US H-8) crochet hook
2 locking stitch markers (to mark top of turning chains!)
Scissors & yarn needle
Abbreviations (US Terms)
ch – chain | yo – yarn over | dc – double crochet | st(s) – stitch(es) | beg – beginning
Pattern Instructions
Foundation: Chain 16 loosely and evenly.
Row 1: Yo, insert hook into 4th ch from hook, yo and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook), [yo and pull through 2 loops] twice. Work 1 dc in each remaining ch across. Ch 3, turn. (14 dc counting skipped chs)
Rows 2–8: Skip the very first st at base of turning ch-3. Work 1 dc under both top V-loops of next st and each st across, working last dc into top of turning ch-3 from previous row. Ch 3, turn. Fasten off after Row 8.
Pattern Notes
Clip a locking stitch marker into the 3rd chain of every turning chain as soon as you make it — you will never accidentally drop a stitch at the end of a row again!