Are you tired of fumbling with long starting chains in your crochet projects? It’s time to bid farewell to your starting chain woes and say hello to a game-changing stitch that will revolutionize your crochet experience. In this article, I will break down each step as I show you how to make the foundation double crochet stitch.

Join me as I guide you through the process of mastering this transformative technique and say goodbye to starting chain frustrations once and for all!

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UNDERSTANDING THE FOUNDATION DOUBLE CROCHET:

So, what exactly is the foundation double crochet stitch? It’s a method that combines the chain and double crochet stitches into one fluid motion. Instead of working a long chain and then stitching into it, you form the chain and stitch simultaneously. This creates a strong and flexible base that mimics the height and texture of traditional double crochets.

At its core, the foundation double crochet stitch combines elements of both the chain stitch and the double crochet stitch. It allows you to create a sturdy base row while simultaneously working the first row of stitches. Essentially, you’re making your chain AND your first row of double crochet at the same time.

I KNOW, right!?

This eliminates the need for a separate starting chain and ensures a more durable and even result.

Brilliant.

FOUNDATION DOUBLE CROCHET ABBREVIATION:

The foundation double crochet is also commonly referred to as the “chainless foundation double crochet”. In a pattern using US terms, the foundation double crochet stitch abbreviated: fdc. In UK terms, it is called the foundation treble crochet. Moving forward in this article, for simplicity, I often refer to the stitch using just it’s abbreviation of “fdc”.

THE MAJOR BENEFITS:

One of the biggest advantages of using the fdc stitch is its versatility. Unlike traditional chain starters, this stitch allows you to simultaneously create the foundation chain and the first row of double crochet stitches. This means you can easily adjust the length of your foundation row as you go, making it easier to achieve the desired size for your project. No more counting and recounting chains to ensure you have the right length — the foundation double crochet stitch simplifies the process, giving you more time to focus on the creative aspects of your project.

In addition to its flexibility, the foundation double crochet stitch also creates a more seamless appearance. With traditional chain starters, it’s common to see a noticeable gap between the foundation row and the subsequent rows, which can affect the overall appearance of your project. However, with the fdc, this gap is significantly reduced, resulting in a seamless transition between rows. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your projects but also provides a more polished and refined finish.

Another beautiful thing about this stitch is that it starts your project off with the proper tension. Starting chains are often tighter than the second row of your project, creating an awkward difference in tension and length between the two rows.

Furthermore, the foundation double crochet stitch offers greater stability and durability to your crocheted items. By eliminating the chains at the beginning of your projects, you eliminate a potential weak point that could easily stretch or distort over time. This is especially beneficial for projects that will be subjected to regular wear and tear, such as blankets, scarves, or garments. With the fdc, you can be confident that your creations will stand the test of time.

Finally, the foundation double crochet stitch provides added flexibility and elasticity to your crochet projects. The combination of the chain and double crochet stitches creates a fabric that stretches and moves with ease. This is particularly useful for projects that require drape, such as garments and accessories.

So let’s learn how to do it!

HOW TO FDC:

As with any new technique, mastering the foundation double crochet stitch may take some practice. However, the rewards are well worth the effort. Once you become comfortable with this stitch, you’ll no longer dread those chain starters and you’ll be able to approach your crochet projects with newfound confidence and excitement.

To begin, grab your crochet hook and yarn of choice. Remember to choose a hook size that complements the weight of your yarn. As with any new technique, it’s always helpful to practice with a scrap piece of yarn before diving into your main project.

To execute the fdc, begin by forming a slip knot on your hook and chain 2. Then, yarn over and insert your hook into the 2nd ch from the hook. Next, yarn over and pull up a loop. Yarn over again and pull through one loop on your hook. This creates the chain stitch that serves as the base of your foundation row. Next, yarn over and pull through two loops. Finally, yarn over again and pull through the final 2 loops on your hook. This last step creates your first double crochet.

You can also watch how to foundation double crochet in the video tutorial further down in this post.

FDC WRITTEN STEPS:

1. Slip knot onto your hook and chain 2
2. Yarn over and insert your hook into the 2nd ch from the hook
3. Yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on the hook)
4. Yarn over again and draw the yarn through the first loop on your hook. (3 loops on your hook)
5. Yarn over again and draw the yarn through 2 loops on your hook. (2 loops on your hook)
6. Yarn over again and draw the yarn through the final 2 loops on your hook.

Each foundation double crochet stitch moving forward will follow the same steps (2-6) except for on step 2, instead of inserting your hook into the 2nd chain, you’ll be inserting your hook under both loops of the chain you made in Step 4 above, which is located underneath the stitch.

WRITTEN STEPS WITH PHOTO TUTORIALS:

1. Slip knot onto your hook and chain 2

2. Yarn over and insert your hook into the 2nd ch from the hook

3. Yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on the hook)

4. Yarn over again and draw the yarn through the first loop on your hook. (3 loops on your hook)

5. Yarn over again and draw the yarn through two loops on your hook

6. Yarn over again and draw your hook through the final two loops on your hook

VIDEO TUTORIAL – HOW TO FOUNDATION DOUBLE CROCHET:

TROUBLESHOOTING ISSUES WITH THE FOUNDATION DOUBLE CROCHET:

The main issues that come up when making your fdc row are tension related. These are the top 3 issues that come up when making this stitch. If you notice any of the following concerns, take note of these tips:

SYMPTOM: My foundation double crochet is bending like a banana! 
Diagnosis: Your “chain row” is coming along tighter that your “double crochet” row on top
Treatment: When you pull up your loop in Step 3, be sure you’re pulling up enough yarn. It should match the height of all the loops on your hook when you’re holding your row vertically (UP AND DOWN).

SYMPTOM: My foundation double crochet has so many gaps and looks “unravelled”!
Diagnosis: Your tension is too loose
Treatment: Tighten up on your yarn in your yarn-working hand so you’re not pulling through as much yarn when you’re making your stitches.

SYMPTOM: My foundation double crochet is so rigid. There’s no flexibility to it!
Diagnosis: Your tension is too tight
Treatment: Loosen up on your yarn in your yarn-working hand so you can easily pull through more yarn as you’re making your stitches so they won’t be so tight.

The foundation double crochet stitch is a game-changer for any crochet enthusiast. By understanding and mastering this stitch, you can bid farewell to the frustrating chain starters that have held you back. With its flexibility, improved edge, and enhanced durability, this stitch truly revolutionizes the way we approach crochet. 

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LOOKING TO LEARN OR REFINE SOME OTHER CROCHET SKILLS? Here are some articles you might like:

• How to Foundation Single Crochet (fsc)
• How to Foundation Half Double Crochet (fhdc)
• How to Single Crochet Stitch (sc)
• How to Half Double Crochet Stitch (hdc)
• How to Double Crochet Stitch (dc)