Menu
×
Free Crochet Patterns Video Tutorials Store About The Crochet Community Search Cart
Beginners / Stitch Library

Learn How to Double Crochet (UK)/ Single Crochet (US)

Updated May 28, 2026

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, I may earn a small commission. Click to see full details of my Privacy Policy.

Pin it now, make later!

Learn how to double crochet (abbreviated as dc in crochet patterns) known as single crochet in the US (abbreviated as sc in US crochet patterns) with my free step-by-step pattern and video tutorial available in both right and left-handed versions.

Double crochet is possibly one of the most popular crochet stitches as it is often one of the first stitches you will learn when starting to crochet. The double crochet is a neat, dense stitch that creates a simple but beautiful texture, looking identical on both sides, which is great if you want to make a blanket or scarf that will be seen on both sides. For those who love amigurumi, you will use this stitch a lot! Making double crochet a great starting point for beginners.

a swatch of UK double crochet using three colours of yarn in paintbox cotton dk in colours: pistachio, vanilla cream and blush pink. The swatch of double crochet is lay on a marble background with a green trailing palm tin the top left corner of the image.
Double Crochet (UK) Single Crochet (US)
An image featuring a bowl of pastel colours yarn set to the left of the image. To the right of the image is a ball of cream yarn with an Athena crochet hook above the ball of yarn lay on a marble background.

Materials & Tools

  • Yarn: In the sample pictured I have used Paintbox Cotton DK in colours pistachio green, vanilla cream and blush pink. However, you can use any weight yarn and recommended hook size that can be found on the yarn band to your chosen yarn. However, if you are a beginner I recommend starting with a DK or Aran weight yarn.
  • Hook: For the sample swatch I used a 4mm. Please check the yarn band of your chosen yarn for the recommended hook size.
  • Darning Needle
  • Scissors

Front View: Double Crochet

a swatch of UK double crochet using three colours of yarn in paintbox cotton dk in colours: pistachio, vanilla cream and blush pink. The swatch of double crochet is lay on a marble background with a green trailing palm tin the top left corner of the image.

Back View: Double Crochet

The back facing swatch of UK double crochet using three colours of yarn in paintbox cotton dk in colours: pistachio, vanilla cream and blush pink. The swatch of double crochet is lay on a marble background with a green trailing palm tin the top left corner of the image.

Pattern Notes

Written in UK terms but switchable to US terms below.

Skill Level: Beginner

Stitch Multiple: 1 +1

This pattern gives you the basic principles for double crochet, designed to help you create your own projects.

Video tutorial can be found at the base of the post.

Rotate through colours A, B & C changing colour every 2 rows on the last pull through of the last st.

The video tutorial only uses one colour yarn.

Convert Pattern Terms

Here you can quickly switch between UK and US crochet terms. This will make following the pattern easier as all terms will be converted to your preferred version.

Pattern Support

The fastest way to get pattern support is to ask in our dedicated facebook group for Bella Coco Crochet patterns. This is the best place for you to connect with other crocheters.

Please note, if you wish to change and adapt this pattern in any way, this must be done at your own exploration and we cannot offer assistance with this.

Terms & Abbreviations

Chain(s): Ch(s): Yarn over and pull up a loop.

Slip Stitch(s): ss(s): Insert hook, yarn over, pull through stitch and loop on hook.

Double Crochet(s): dc(s):
Insert hook into stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, you will have two loops on the hook. Yarn over, pull through remaining two loops.

How to Crochet: A Handy Reference Guide EBook

Unsure of the differences between UK and US terms? Need a refresher on how to do your stitches? In my ‘How to crochet: A handy reference guide’ EBook I help you with all of these terms and you can always have them to hand! You will also get exclusive access to free video instructions. Learn more about the eBook here.

FAQs

Is this stitch suitable for beginners?

I always say if you like the look of a stitch, try it. If you’re comfortable with basic stitches like chain, double crochet, or treble crochet, you’ll likely pick it up quickly. I also recommend watching the video tutorial alongside following the written pattern. Lastly, take your time, practice slowly, and don’t worry if it feels tricky at first.

How do I keep count of my stitches?

Using stitch markers can make a huge difference, especially at the beginning and end of rows or rounds. Counting regularly after each row will also help you spot mistakes early before they become harder to fix. If you’re still struggling, add stitch markers after every 5 or 10 stitches. 

My edges are uneven! What am I doing wrong?

Uneven edges usually happen when stitches are accidentally added or missed at the ends of rows. Pay close attention to where the first and last stitches go, and count your stitches often to make sure the total stays consistent. Using stitch markers can help with this. CLICK HERE for more help starting and ending rows with confidence. 

What should I do if I make a mistake?

Mistakes happen to every crocheter! If you notice an error a few stitches back, gently pull out the stitches to the problem area and try again. In the crochet world, we call this frogging, and it’s all part of the learning process. 

Why do my stitches vary in size? 

This will be your tension. If you struggle with your tension and find your crochet stitches are inconsistent, or they get tighter or looser, I can help fix this with the golden loop! CLICK HERE to help fix your tension issues.

How long does it take to learn a new crochet stitch?

Some stitches click immediately, while others take a little more practice. Give yourself time to repeat the stitch pattern slowly, and don’t be afraid to pause and replay tutorials. Practice makes progress. 

Absolute Beginners: Start Here

Before we get started you need to be familiar with the slip knot, it’s your personal preference getting your yarn onto your hook so I have 3 ways to help you…

Top tip! Start and end your crochet rows with confidence with this useful technique! 

double crochet

Free Pattern: Double Crochet

You are viewing this pattern in UK terms.

Foundation: Ch your desired width +1.

Row 1: dc in second ch from hook (skipped ch does not count as st), dc in each ch across. Turn.

Row 2:
1 ch (does not count as a st here and throughout), dc in each st across. Turn.

Rep Row 2 until desired height.

Fasten off and sew in ends.

Video Tutorials

Right-handed

Or you can watch on YouTube

Left-handed

Or you can watch on YouTube

Beginner Crochet Stitches to Try Next

Click below to explore the FREE stitch library.

crochet stitch library

Crochet Patterns: Beginner Friendly

I always love to see your makes so if you try any of my patterns or follow my stitch tutorials please tag me @bellacococrochet or use the #bellacococrochet

sarah-jayne
 
KEEP ON making
Don’t miss a thing! Sign up to our newsletter, grab a cuppa and find out about the latest posts and projects.
Thanks! Please check your inbox (and junk) to confirm your subscription!

Pin it now, make later!

No Comments

    Leave a Reply


    American Express Apple Pay Diners Club Discover Google Pay Maestro Mastercard PayPal Shop Pay Union Pay Visa
    © 2024 Bella Coco Crochet.