As a beginner crocheter, one of the first steps to master is that of turning chain for double crochet.
This simple technique is used when moving from one crochet row or round to the next.
In this post, we’ll explore the traditional turning chain as well as different alternative types of turning chains for double crochet.
We’ll also cover tips for mastering the stitches, a video tutorial and photo tutorial.
Whether it’s an afghan or sweater your working on, with this guide you’ll be able to start a row or round with double crochet stitches with ease!
What is Turning Chains for Double Crochet?
Turning chains for double crochet is the chain stitches you crochet to start a new row or round of double crochet stitches.
The turning chains are used to lift your hook and yarn to the level of the stitch you crochet, for the double crochet stitch this number is 3.
The turning chains can be crocheted either before or after you turn your work, and varies depending on which pattern you follow. Both give the same overall result, so do what you prefer.
There are many alternative ways to start a row or round of double crochet. These are turning chain alternatives that gives the same result, by lifting your crochet hook and yarn to the same level as the stitch, but may result in neater edges.
Each turning chain technique for double crochet may give better or worse results, depending on the crocheter that uses them. Because of that, it’s important that you try the different techniques and stick with the ones you find suits you best.
Materials Needed
To crochet a turning chain for double crochet you can use any crochet hook size and yarn. If you’re following a crochet pattern, use the crochet hook and yarn suggested.
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Turning Chain for Double Crochet Abbreviations
Turning chains are abbreviated tch or t-ch in crochet patterns.
For double crochet you may also find them abbreviated as ch 3.
Learn more about crochet abbreviations & find a complete list on our Crochet Abbreviations & Terms post.
Double Crochet Turning Chain – Crochet Chart Symbol
The turning chain for double crochet chart symbol is simply the same symbol as 3 chain stitches turned upwards.
It is 3 oval circles representing the chain stitch crocheted as a turning chain.
It will be turned in the direction it will lay in your finished crochet work.
Photo showing the turning chain for double crochet stitch chart symbol.
4 Alternative Ways To Start A Row Of Double Crochet – Step By Step Photo Tutorials
Alternative 1: Chain 3 Counts As First Stitch
The first alternative for the turning chain for the double crochet the turning chains counts as the first double crochet of the row. In this case you will have to work into the top of that turning chain when you come back to it when you finish the next row.
Step 1: Chain 3
To get to the height of the double crochet stitch the common number of chains is 3 turning chains.
Step 2: Work first double crochet into 2nd stitch
After working the 3 chains, work the first double crochet stitch into the second stitch. That means the second to last stitch made on the previous row.
By following the instructions above, the turning chain does count as a stitch.
Alternative 2: Chain 3 Does Not Count As A Stitch
In the second alternative, the turning chains does not count as a stitch. In this case you will not work into the turning chain when you come back to it on the next row, as the last stitch of the row.
If you work into it, you will end up increasing the number of stitches on the row.
Step 1: Chain 3
The first step is to chain 3 turning chains to get to the height of the stitch.
Step 2: Work first double crochet into first stitch
The second step is to work the first double crochet into the first stitch. That means to work into the last stitch of the previous row.
By following the instructions above, the turning chain does not count as a stitch.
Alternative 3: Wrap Around Technique
The 3rd alternative turning chain for double crochet is the wrap around technique. It creates a big turning chain and first double crochet stitch in one.
The positive about this technique is that you avoid gaps completely and the edges turn out straight.
It can be a bit more difficult to master than the other techniques, but the overall finish looks good.
Step 1: Chain 3
To start the wrap around technique for double crochet, chain 3.
Step 2: Move the crochet hook to the right of the chains
Wrap the crochet hook around the chains, moving to the right of the chain-3.
Step 3: Then go behind the chains
Move the crochet hook all the way behind the chains, ready to pull up a loop.
Step 4: Pull up a loop from behind the chains
Pull up a loop from behind the chains, you have 2 loops on the crochet hook.
Step 5: Insert crochet hook into first stitch
Insert hook into the first stitch. That means the last stitch you made on the previous row.
Step 6: Pull up a loop
Pull up a loop. You have 3 loops on the crochet hook.
Step 7: Finish like a regular double crochet
Finish off as you would when you crochet a regular double crochet.
- Yarn over and pull through 2.
- Repeat step 1.
You have now finished the wrap around technique and can crochet the next double crochet stitch.
Make sure you crochet into the wrap around stitch when you come back on the next row to keep the stitch count consistent.
Alternative 4: Stacked Single Crochet Stitches
The stacked single crochet stitches technique is a great alternative to regular turning chains.
It is essentially a technique where you start the row with multiple single crochet stitches stacked on top of each other.
The result is straight edges and no gaps, like you may get from regular turning chains.
Step 1: Crochet a single crochet directly into the first stitch
After turning, crochet 1 single crochet into the first stitch.
Notice that the single crochet stitch has two legs, one left and right, coming out of the stitch you worked into.
Step 2: Insert crochet hook into left leg of sc and pull up a loop
Find the left leg of the single crochet and insert the crochet hook and pull up a loop.
Step 3: Yarn over and pull through both loops
Yarn over and pull through both loops on the crochet hook.
You have finished the stacked single crochet as a turning chain for a double crochet row.
In some cases you may find that stacking 3 single crochet stitches will work better, try both and see what looks best in your case.
Step 4: Continue with double crochet across the row
Work a double crochet in next stitch and the following stitches to crochet a row of crochet double stitches.
Make sure you work into the last stacked single crochet when coming back to it on the next row to keep the stitch count consistent.
Double Crochet Turning Chains Video Tutorial
Typical Questions About Turning Chain for Double Crochet
How many turning chains do you do for double crochet?
For double crochet the common number of turning chains is 2.
Is double crochet turning chain 2 or 3?
For double crochet the most common number of chains is 3, however in some cases it may look just as good (or better) by chaining just 2.
Give it a try with your yarn and crochet hook and see what result you prefer.
Is the number of chain stitches needed for the normal double crochet the same as for different type of stitches?
Yes, for different variations for double crochet stitches you need the same number and length of the turning chain. Including the front loop double crochet, back loop double crochet, front post double crochet and back post double crochet.
Turning Chains – Step-By-Step Tutorials
Below you can find turning chains needed for the different basic crochet stitches:
- Turning Chain For Single Crochet Stitch (sc)
- Turning Chain For Half Double Crochet Stitch (hdc)
- Turning Chain For Double Crochet Stitch (dc) – this tutorial
- Turning Chain Treble Crochet Stitch (tr)
