Double Treble Crochet: The Ultimate Guide + Video (2024)

If you’re eager to delve into the enchanting world of crochet, where each stitch brings forth possibilities, you are in the right place! In this article, we will delve deep into the realm of the double treble crochet stitch, one of the tallest basic stitches.

Let’s explore how to crochet it and add height, texture, and elegance to your crochet projects. Elevate your crochet designs to new heights of beauty and complexity. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned crocheter, this stitch will surely inspire you!

What is a Double Treble Crochet Stitch?

This crochet stitch is an elongated version of the treble crochet stitch and one of the tallest basic stitches. Mastering it is not hard, but requires some practice and patience. The double treble crochet creates light and airy fabric thanks to the spaces between stitches.

We usually abbreviate the name of this stitch to DTR. In crochet diagrams, we use a T shape with 3 crossbars, signifying three yarn-overs.

Mastering the double treble crochet is one of the ways to advance your skills and become a professional.

Benefits and uses of double treble crochet

Although this stitch is quite unusual, it may be useful in various projects. Let’s explore its qualities and possibilities:

• Height and Openness – the elongated nature of double treble makes it one of the tallest standard crochet stitches. The spaces between the stitches create drapey, breathable, lightweight fabric.
• Speedy Coverage – thanks to its extra height, this stitch will cover large areas quickly. It works fast compared to shorter stitches, such as single crochet or half double crochet.
• Lace and Openwork – many crochet designers use double treble to create intricate lacy textures. You can see it in projects such as decorative shawls, doilies and summer garments.
• Texture – this technique is textural, but you can combine it with shorter stitches for an even more interesting look.
• Versatility – whether it’s lightweight summer garments, decorative mandalas, or home decor, double treble works great.

How to Double Treble Crochet (dtr)

Let’s learn how to make a double treble stitch.

Start with…

• How to Make a Slip Knot
• How to Make a Foundation Chain

Video Tutorial

Step-by-step Guide

Let’s see how many chains are in a turning chain for a double treble crochet.

The turning chain for double treble crochet consists of five chain stitches and counts as a stitch.

To make a double treble stitch, follow these steps:

• Start with the turning chain of 5 or a foundation chain with additional 5 chain stitches.
• Yarn over three times: Wrap the yarn over your hook three times, from back to front.
• Insert your hook into the sixth chain from the hook or the first stitch in the row (not in the turning chain).
• Yarn over again: Wrap the yarn over your hook.
• Pull the yarn through the chain, so you have five loops on your hook.
• Yarn over once more: Wrap the yarn over your hook.
• Pull the yarn through the first two loops on your hook, leaving four loops remaining.
• Yarn over again: Wrap the yarn over your hook.
• Pull the yarn through the next two loops on your hook, leaving three loops remaining.
• Yarn over again: Wrap the yarn over your hook.
• Pull the yarn through the next two loops on your hook, leaving two loops remaining.
• Yarn over one last time: Wrap the yarn over your hook.
• Pull the yarn through the last two loops on your hook.

You’ve completed a double treble crochet stitch. Continue these steps across the row to create a double treble crochet fabric.

Variations and modifications of double treble stitch

This technique offers a lot of room for experiments, so make sure to try these:

• Front Post Double Treble Crochet (FPdtr) – this technique will add even more texture to your crochet project. Wrapping the double treble stitch around the post of the stitch from the front creates a raised texture.
• Back Post Double Treble Crochet (BPdtr) – working this stitch from the back adds a textured effect on the other side of the fabric.
• Extended Double Treble Crochet – extended stitches have their base lower than regular stitches – in the row below. This creates additional height.
• Cluster Stitch Double Treble Crochet – work multiple stitches into the same stitch or space.
• Double Treble Crochet Shell Stitch – work multiple stitches into the same space or stitch, and let them take space. Use these shells for decorative edges or lace patterns.

Troubleshooting and Tips

Working with the stitch as tall may be a problem for some, so let’s see the most common mistakes and learn how to fix them.

Yarn Over Mistakes

If working with a crochet hook is not yet natural to you, keeping the yarnovers in check might be a challenge. Losing them or adding too many can lead to uneven stitches or unintentional increases.

Make sure you yarn over three times and recount the loops after each move. Practice keeping the right tension and the yarn with your fingers while working.

Missing Stitches

Skipping stitches is a common problem, especially if you’re not yet familiar with how the stitches look like.

Spend some time examining the anatomy of a crochet piece, to be sure where the hook should go. Count your stitches regularly to avoid making gaps in the fabric.

Inconsistent Turning Chain

Only the right height of the turning chain will make your project look nice and even at the edges. Missing chain stitches, skipping them, or forgetting about the chain in the subsequent row will lead to problems.

Remember how many chains you need to start a row of double trebles, and recount it every time. Always work a stitch in the turning chain at the end of the row to maintain the right stitch count.

Tension Issues

If your stitches are too tight, too loose, or inconsistent, you probably have issues with keeping the right tension.

Pay attention to the strength with which you keep and lead the yarn. Experiment with different hook sizes or yarn weights to accommodate your style of crocheting. Practice on small swatches to make the movements consistent and natural.

Tips for Beginners

Mastering such a tall stitch may be challenging, so here are some tips to get you going.

• Choose the Right Hook and Yarn – selecting the right size of crochet hook for your yarn is one of the crucial skills. This choice will affect your tension and the look of the finished piece.
• Pay Attention to Yarn Overs – while working with tall stitches, always make sure you have the right number of yarn overs on the hook.
• Understand the Abbreviations – if you follow a pattern, look into the pattern notes. You will find the key to unknown abbreviations there.
• Count Your Stitches – if you are new to crochet, or often miss stitches, count them every row. Make a gauge swatch before you start.
• Note Turning Chains – keep the right length of a turning chain to avoid distortions. Don’t forget to work the last stitch of the row in the turning chain below.
• Use Stitch Markers – mark key points, such as the beginning of a round, to easier keep track of your progress.

FAQ

Let’s answer some of the frequently asked questions.

How is a double treble crochet different from a regular treble crochet?

The double treble differs from a regular treble in height and number of yarnovers.

While regular treble crochet has two yarnovers, you have to yarn over three times to make a double treble. This additional move makes the stitch taller, so it requires one more chain stitch in the turning chain.

How to increase and decrease using double treble crochet

Increase (2dtr in the same stitch)

Make two stitches in the same base stitch to increase with double treble crochet.

Decrease (dtr2tog)

To decrease, follow these steps:

1. Start making the first double treble as usual: yarn over three times, insert your hook into the stitch, and pull up a loop. You have five loops on your hook.
2. Work them two-by-two until you are have two loops, but DO NOT finish off the stitch.
3. Yarn over three times again and insert the hook in the next stitch.
4. Pull up a loop – you’ve got six loops on the hook now.
5. Work them two-by-two until you have three loops.
6. Grab the yarn with your hook and pull through all three loops.

You have now decreased using double treble crochet.

When should I use a double treble crochet in my project?

Use this stitch whenever you need height and an open, airy texture. Whether you work on lacy fabrics, intricate stitch patterns, or decorative elements, a double treble will be a perfect choice.

Can I substitute a double treble crochet for a different stitch?

Depending on the desired outcome, you can substitute it for other tall stitches. Explore options such as treble crochet, extended double crochet, or triple treble crochet.

Remember to adjust your stitch count and tension to keep the integrity of the pattern.

How many loops should I have on my hook when working a double treble crochet?

As you will see, this stitch requires three yarnovers, so you should have four loops in total when starting. After inserting the hook in the stitch and pulling up a loop, you should have five. From there you will only decrease the number of loops on the hook until you have only one.

Can I use a double treble crochet in combination with other stitches?

Yes, it’s a great stitch to combine with other techniques, especially with short basic stitches. Experiment with adding single crochets, half double crochets, or chain stitches. This will create unique and eye-catching textures.

How many chains do I need to start a row of double treble crochet?

You typically need to make six chain stitches as the turning chain. It counts as the first double treble stitch and provides the necessary height to match the rest of the row.

How do I finish off a row of double treble crochet?

To finish off a row, work the last stitch as usual and cut the yarn. Pull the cut yarn end through the loop on your hook and tighten it. Weave in the end neatly to complete the project.

Can I work a double treble crochet in the round?

Sure, you can work this stitch in the round by joining the beginning and end of the round with a slip stitch. Each new round will begin with a turning chain, just like in rows. Use stitch markers to keep track of the rounds and practice keeping the right tension.

Can I use a double treble crochet in lace patterns?

Of course, this stitch is great for lacy projects and creating intricate openwork patterns. The height it provides is perfect for the airy look of lace crochet. Experiment with different stitch combinations to come up with new lace motifs in your projects. Remember about crochet blocking your piece after finishing.

Conclusion

The double treble crochet stitch, one of the tallest basic stitches, is versatile and inspiring. Use it for summer clothes, decorative mandalas, edgings and home decor. Incorporate it in various projects by combining it with dense short stitches.

Whether you are looking to challenge yourself, learn all the basic stitches, or add a new technique to your repertoire, this stitch is perfect. Add elegance and refinement to your projects and try new artistic expression with a double treble stitch.