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How To Work Double Crochet.
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But I need to teach you how to work the stitch, not just chat about it... OK - now here we go...of course we must start with a base row of chain stitches (ch).
If you don't know how to work chains - go here first.
We'll start with 12 chain stitches (ch) as a base. We're only going to be working on 10 chain stitches (ch), but because double crochet (dc) stitches are longer they need more turning chains (ch) to keep the fabric flat. Many patterns will recommend 3 turning chains (ch) for double crochet (dc), but I just use 2 turning chains (ch) as I prefer a firmer edge to my work. Try both options and see which suits you best. So - first you must do a yarn over(YO) then push your hook through the 3rd chain (ch) from the hook (under both the top of the 'V' and the 'bump' on the back of the chain.) Remember - don't count the chain (ch) already on the hook. Hook the yarn at the back or YO, then pull the YO back through to the front of your work (3 loops on hook.)
YO again, then pull this YO through the first 2 loops on your hook (2 loops left on hook). YO again and pull this YO through the last 2 loops on your hook. Follow the pictures below and try it yourself!
That's how you work a double crochet (dc) stitch! Try some more. Work to the end of the row, then turn your work over, work 2 turning chains (ch) and practice on another row. When you get to the end of the row, work a double crochet (dc) into the top of the turning chain (ch). Here I prefer to push my hook under the whole of the chain (ch), not through the chain stitches (ch) as in the first row.
Check out how to unravel crochet instructions.
You work a treble crochet (tr) in the same way. The first thing you do is YO twice before pushing your hook through the base chain. Once at the back of the base chain (ch), YO again and pull this YO through to the front of your work (4 loops on hook). YO and pull through the first 2 loops on your hook (3 loop on hook). YO again and pull through the first 2 loops on your hook(2 loops on hook). YO again and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook.
Ta-Da!!! Now you can do double crochet (dc) and treble crochet (tr)! The difference is the number of times you YO and pull through the sets of 2 stitches. Twice = double crochet (dc), 3 times = treble crochet (tr). Simple, eh? This crochet stuff is pretty easy once someone explains it to you, don't you think?
Learn the importance of working tension swatches.
So - I would do 3 turning chains (ch) with treble crochet (tr), 2 turning chains (ch) with double crochet (dc) - that makes it easy to remember. Try 3 or 4 with your treble crochet (tr) stitches and stick with what you prefer. You should be the judge as you know the results you want.
Why not keep practicing? Try working one row of double crochet (dc), one row of treble crochet (tr) and see the differences between the two stitches. If you prefer a closer fabric, try weaving some ribbon or thicker yarn over and under through the gaps between the stitches. This gives another option for your wool fabric. Experiment! That's what crafting is about! Have fun!