Double crochet is a versatile stitch. It can be used in unlimited ways. On this page, we will explore some of the different possibilities for creating fabric using double crochet.
The yarn used in the sample swatches is worsted weight Lily Sugar 'n Cream cotton.
You can click any of the images on this page to see a larger version.
Double Crochet Worked Through Both Loops
Photo © 2009 Amy Solovay, Licensed to About.com, Inc.
This is what ordinary double crochet looks like. The double crochet stitches were worked in rows, and the stitches were worked through both loops of the stitches in the previous rows.
Double Crochet Worked Through Front Loops
Photo © 2009 Amy Solovay, Licensed to About.com, Inc.
Here we have another double crochet swatch. This swatch was also worked in rows. Instead of crocheting through both loops, this swatch was made by working only in the front loops of the stitches in previous rows.
Compare this fabric against the one where the double crochet stitches were worked through both loops. If you look carefully, you'll notice a difference in the way the fabric looks. In this swatch, there are decorative horizontal ridges on alternate rows on each side of the fabric.
Double Crochet Worked Through Alternating Front and Back Loops
Photo © 2009 Amy Solovay, Licensed to About.com, Inc.
Here's another swatch comprised totally of double crochet stitches. This variation was created by crocheting through alternating front loops and back loops.
This swatch is even more textural than the others. The difference is especially noticeable when you touch the fabric; it feels slightly rougher and bumpier.
The gauge is also noticeably different; the finished swatch is significantly narrower than the other swatches shown above.
