Double Treble Crochet: How to Stitch, Increase, and Decrease

The double treble crochet, often abbreviated as DTR, stands as one of the tallest fundamental stitches in crochet, offering remarkable height and an open, lacy texture ideal for lightweight garments and decorative pieces. This stitch builds on basic knowledge of treble crochet, introducing an extra yarn-over for elongated posts that create dramatic drape and airiness in fabrics.

Why Choose Double Treble Crochet?

Double treble crochet excels in projects requiring rapid height buildup or intricate lace designs. Its extended length allows for loose, breathable materials perfect for summer shawls, afghans, or heirloom doilies. Crafters appreciate its versatility in combining with shorter stitches to form textured patterns, while its relative rarity adds a sophisticated edge to portfolios.

• Creates airy, openwork fabrics with minimal yarn usage.
• Ideal for large-scale motifs or quick row height.
• Enhances stitch definition in multi-stitch combinations.

Essential Tools and Materials

To execute DTR successfully, select a smooth worsted or DK weight yarn to prevent splitting, paired with a 5mm to 7mm hook for optimal tension. Maintain consistent gauge by swatching: aim for 10-15 chains plus 5 turning chains initially.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Basic DTR

Begin with a foundation chain of at least 15 stitches. The process involves multiple yarn-overs to manage several loops on the hook simultaneously.

1. Yarn over three times: This preps the hook for maximum height, distinguishing DTR from treble (two yarn-overs).
2. Insert hook into designated stitch: Typically the next chain or stitch, pulling up a loop to yield five loops on hook.
3. Yarn over and pull through two loops: Repeat this four times total, reducing loops gradually: 5 to 4, 4 to 3, 3 to 2, then final pull-through for one loop.

Visualize the sequence: YO x3, insert, YO/pull (5 loops), YO/pull2 (4), YO/pull2 (3), YO/pull2 (2), YO/pull2 (1). Practice on a swatch to stabilize loose strands by anchoring with your finger.

Navigating Rows and Turning Chains

At row ends, chain five (equivalent to one DTR height) before turning. Skip the first stitch post-turn, working into the second for seamless alignment. This chain counts as your initial stitch, preventing bunching.

For subsequent rows: Chain 5, yarn over three times into the next stitch, complete as above across. End by inserting into the turning chain space for uniformity.

Increasing with Double Treble Crochet

Increases add width by placing multiple DTR into one stitch. Perform two full DTR into the same space: yarn over three times, insert/pull, work down to one loop, then repeat without exiting the stitch.

• Edge increase: Two DTR in first/last stitch.
• Mid-row: Two DTR in chosen stitch for shaping.
• Result: Clean V-shape expansion without bulk.

Decreasing Techniques for DTR

Decreases taper fabric elegantly. For DTR two together (dtr2tog): Start first DTR (YO x3, insert/pull, YO/pull2 three times to 2 loops), then initiate second identically but stop at 2 loops, finally YO/pull through all three.

Extend to dtr3tog: Repeat partial DTR process across three stitches, culminating in YO/pull through four loops.

Common Mistakes and Fixes

Troubleshoot loose initial yarn-overs by tensioning with your index finger during insertion. Uneven heights stem from inconsistent pull-throughs; count loops aloud initially. Splitting yarn? Opt for plies over singles.

• Solution for unraveling: Hold stitch firmly before next YO.
• Gauge issues: Block swatches post-completion.
• Row skew: Always chain exactly five.

Creative Project Ideas Featuring DTR

Incorporate DTR into shawls for ethereal drape, blankets for lightweight warmth, or garments for elongated panels. Pair with chains for shell motifs or clusters for texture.

• Lacy shawl: Alternate DTR rows with chain spaces.
• Afghan blocks: DTR fans for open centers.
• Scarf: Vertical DTR columns for striping.

Advanced Variations and Combinations

Explore front-post DTR for ribbing or back-post for cables. Cluster multiple DTR into one space for popcorn effects. In lace patterns, skip stitches post-DTR to form elongated arches.

Hybrid stitch: DTR shell (5 DTR in one stitch, chain 2 between). Gauge adjusts downward with denser combos.

Troubleshooting Tension and Ergonomics

Maintain wrist neutrality during multi-loop pulls. Use ergonomic hooks with inline design for reduced strain. Swatch in various yarns to match project needs: finer for lace, bulkier for speed.

Understanding Gauge and Blocking

DTR naturally loosens fabric; block by pinning wet swatches to measurements, air-drying overnight. Standard gauge: 8-10 sts/4 rows per 10cm square in plain DTR.

FAQs

What is the difference between treble and double treble crochet?

Treble uses two initial yarn-overs; DTR requires three, yielding taller posts.

How many chains for a DTR turning chain?

Always five chains to match stitch height.

Can beginners learn DTR?

Yes, after mastering treble; practice stabilizes loops quickly.

Best yarn for DTR projects?

Smooth cottons or wools prevent splitting during multiple pulls.

How to fix uneven DTR rows?

Consistent loop counts and blocking resolve most issues.