Linked Double Crochet Stitch Tutorial

The linked double crochet stitch is a variation of the double crochet stitch that removes all the gaps and holes by “linking” each stitch in the middle. Since the traditional double crochet stitch is a fairly tall stitch, there is a pretty large opening between each stitch. You can’t see it visibly when the work is lying flat, but if you were to pick it up and stretch it, you can easily see the holes and the movement of the fabric.

There may be patterns that you would like to use the double crochet stitch, but you want a more solid, dense result. The linked double crochet stitch is just the solution!

Besides being a great technique for creating a more solid fabric, the stitch also creates a very unique texture. Something about yarning through the front bar in this stitch (see instructions below) causes there to be a more pronounced difference between alternating rows. One row leans heavily in the opposite direction of the alternating rows. This creates beautiful raised ridges, as opposed to a piece that lies completely flat like the traditional double crochet.

The linked double crochet stitch is lovely to look at, as well as being super functional for creating density and structure! It is definitely a stitch every crocheter should have in their toolbox!

Materials:

For the step-by-step photos below, I used Lion Brand Lazy Days in “clay” (a size 4 yarn). For the above photo and the video tutorial to come, I used Yarn Bee Smooth Move (a size 3 yarn). Both yarns have a nice smooth, but structured feel, which is great for showing off the structure of a stitch.

I used an I9/ 5.5 mm crochet hook for both types of yarn. You will want to select a crochet hook based on your personal tension and the yarn you are using.

Linked Double Crochet Stitch Video Tutorial:

Linked Double Crochet Stitch Photo Tutorial:

Abbreviations:

(yo) Yarn Over
(ch) Chain
(loyh) Loops On Your Hook

Chain any number + 3.

Row 1: Insert your hook into the 3rd chain from the hook. Yo and pull through. You now have 2 loyh. Insert hook into the next chain. Yo and pull through. You now have 3 loyh. Yo and pull through 2. You have 2 loyh. Yo and pull through both loops. This completes the starting stitch.

*Insert hook through the horizontal bar of the previous stitch. Yo and pull through. You now have 2 loyh. Insert hook into the next chain. Yo and pull through. You now have 3 loyh. Yo and pull through 2. You have 2 loyh. Yo and pull through both loops.* This completes the second stitch.

Repeat from * to * in each chain until the end of the row.

Row 2: Ch 3. Turn. Insert your hook into the 3rd chain from the hook. Yo and pull through. You now have 2 loyh. Insert hook into the same stitch you chained out of. Yo and pull through. You now have 3 loyh. Yo and pull through 2. You have 2 loyh. Yo and pull through both loops. This completes the starting stitch of the row.

*Insert hook through the horizontal bar of the previous stitch. Yo and pull through. You now have 2 loyh. Insert hook into the next stitch. Yo and pull through. You now have 3 loyh. Yo and pull through 2. You have 2 loyh. Yo and pull through both loops.* This completes the second stitch.

Repeat from * to * in each stitch until the end of the row.

Remaining Rows: Repeat Row 2.

Start Creating:

A washcloth is always a wonderful project to start with when you’re learning a new stitch. Stay tuned for the Linked Double Crochet Washcloth Pattern COMING SOON.

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