The double treble crochet stitch—often abbreviated as dtr—is one of the tallest basic stitches in the world of crochet. With its height and open structure, this stitch allows you to create airy fabrics and dramatic design elements that truly stand out.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the double treble crochet stitch including how to make it when to use it and tips for best results.
What Is the Double Treble Crochet Stitch
The double treble crochet is a tall stitch that uses four yarn overs and five steps to complete. It creates a long elegant stitch that works up quickly and is especially useful for:
- Open lacework
- Draped garments
- Shawls and wraps
- Decorative borders
- Creating unique texture and vertical height in fabric
Because it’s taller than double and treble stitches it adds extra flair and visual interest to your work.
How to Make the Double Treble Crochet Stitch
Here is a step by step breakdown of how to create the dtr stitch for right handed crocheters using US terms:
Step 1
- Yarn over three times (you will have four loops on your hook to begin).
Step 2
- Insert your hook into the designated stitch or space.
Step 3
- Yarn over and pull up a loop (you now have five loops on your hook).
Step 4
- Yarn over and pull through two loops – repeat this four times until only one loop remains.
That completes one double treble crochet stitch. It may seem long at first but with a bit of practice you’ll get into a smooth rhythm.
Where to Use the Double Treble Crochet
The double treble is often used in:
- Lace shawls and wraps for a light airy texture
- Decorative trims for blankets or scarves
- Openwork designs in beachwear or summer garments
- Overlay or relief crochet for raised patterns
- Crochet cables or tall post stitches in advanced designs
Its length also makes it a great stitch for tapered shaping or creating crochet graphs where vertical stretch is needed.
Tips for Using Double Treble Crochet
- Keep consistent tension: Because of the height this stitch can get loose or wobbly if your tension varies.
- Use stitch markers: Especially helpful when working in complex patterns or long rows.
- Work a gauge swatch: Due to its height it’s important to make sure your measurements are accurate.
- Avoid frequent use in tight patterns: Too many dtr stitches close together can cause gaps or an unstable fabric.
Double Treble Crochet in Patterns
Most patterns that use the double treble will include the abbreviation dtr in the stitch key. Here’s how it might appear in a pattern instruction:
“Row 3 – Ch 4 counts as dtr skip next 2 stitches dtr in next stitch”
It’s also common to use dtr stitches in stitch combinations like:
- Dtr shell stitch
- Dtr v stitch
- Dtr cluster
These combinations create unique patterns and textures that highlight the tall elegant nature of the stitch.
Stitch Comparison
| Stitch Name | Abbreviation | Yarn Overs | Height |
| Single Crochet | sc | 0 | Shortest |
| Half Double Crochet | hdc | 1 | Short |
| Double Crochet | dc | 1 | Medium |
| Treble Crochet | tr | 2 | Tall |
| Double Treble Crochet | dtr | 3 | Tallest |
This shows how the double treble crochet stitch adds height and flow that other basic stitches cannot match.
Final Thoughts
The double treble crochet stitch might seem intimidating at first but once you get comfortable with the yarn overs and rhythm it becomes a fun and dramatic stitch to use. It brings elegance and height to your projects while adding texture and visual interest.
Whether you’re designing a light shawl or crafting a decorative piece the double treble crochet stitch is a wonderful tool to have in your crochet skillset. Practice it with a few swatches and start incorporating it into patterns to make your work stand out.