The dch2 (Double Chain Two) is used at the start of a double crochet row or round in place of a chain 2 or 3, with no gap!
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This tutorial was originally published on November 20, 2020. The most recent update was made on September 21, 2023.
Table of contents
You know the gap between the starting chain of row or round of crochet and the next dc? It drives me bonkers! Using a dch2 in place of the starting or turning chain will bring your hook up to the height as a dc. It will also take up the same thickness as a double crochet stitch.
No ch 2 or ch 3 as a starting chain, no gap, awesome. The dch2 counts as the first stitch of the row or round, and is much easier to work into than chain stitches.
This simple stitch is also sometimes called the stacked 2 single crochet (st2sc), or a turning double crochet. It works at the beginning of the row as your first double crochet and makes the second stitch easy to start. Plus it’s so much easier to work into when you get to the end of the row.
The dch2 works for more than just rectangles like afghans or scarves. It’s also prefect for granny squares, sweaters, shawls, and pretty much any crochet creation with a dc starting the rows or rounds.
Written Instructions and Photo Tutorial
Stitches and Abbreviations
click on highlighted stitches for tutorials
dc – double crochet
dch2 – double chain two
st(s) – stitch(es)
yo – yarn over
How To Make A Double Chain Two (dch2)
Insert hook into designated st (usually the first st), yo, pull through (2 loops on hook), yo, pull through both loops, insert hook in left vertical loop of st part just made, yo, pull through (2 loops on hook), yo, pull through both loops.
Now your first stitch is done and you can make your next stitch as normal. Repeat this with your second row of double crochet and all additional rows of double crochet. If your patterns tells you to work the last stitch into the top chain of the previous row, you will work into the top of the dch2 instead.
Video Tutorials
Here are links to some of the supplies used in the video.
- Knitter’s Pride Dreamz Crochet Hook
- WeCrochet Brava Worsted Yarn
Right Handed Video Tutorial
If you can’t see this video, try watching it on YouTube HERE.
Left Handed Video Tutorial
If you can’t see this video, try watching it on YouTube HERE.
FAQs
When using the dch2 in your foundation chain, you do not work into the fourth chain as you would with a regular dc. Make a foundation chain that is equal to the number of stitch in the first row, then make the dch2 in the chain right next to the crochet hook.
YES! Check out THIS POST for more on that.
You may be adding an extra stitch. The dch2 is worked into the last stitch of the previous row, or the first stitch of the previous round. It counts as the first stitch of the round or row. Be sure you are including it in your stitch count and that you do not work an additional st in the same st unless your pattern tells your to.
Here are some supplies you may find useful.
Happy stitching my friends.
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