From the Original Text
“Treble stitch.—Put the cotton twice round the needle, put it into the loop, draw it through; there will thus be 4 loops on the needle; draw the cotton through 2, then through 2 again, then through the remaining 2.”
— Thérèse de Dillmont, Encyclopedia of Needlework, 1886
Modern Step-by-Step Instructions
The treble stitch (known as double crochet in US terminology) is a fundamental tall stitch that creates open, airy fabric perfect for blankets, shawls, and garments requiring drape. This stitch works up quickly and uses more yarn than shorter stitches, making it ideal for covering large areas efficiently.
What You’ll Need
- Worsted weight yarn — Shows stitch structure clearly for beginners
- Size H/8 crochet hook — Good starting size for most worsted yarns
- Yarn needle — For weaving in ends
- Scissors — For cutting yarn
- Stitch markers — Helpful for marking pattern repeats
How to Work the Treble Stitch
- Yarn over twice (wrap yarn around hook two times).
- Insert hook into designated stitch or space.
- Yarn over and pull through stitch (4 loops now on hook).
- Yarn over and pull through 2 loops (3 loops remain).
- Yarn over and pull through 2 loops (2 loops remain).
- Yarn over and pull through final 2 loops (1 loop remains).
- Continue across row working treble in each stitch.
- Chain 3 and turn for next row (chain counts as first treble).
Expert Tips for the Perfect Treble Stitch
- Keep even tension throughout—loose tension creates uneven fabric
- Count your yarn overs carefully (always two for treble stitch)
- Don’t skip the final yarn over before inserting your hook
- Practice the pull-through sequence until it becomes automatic
- Use stitch markers to track pattern repeats in complex designs
- Block finished pieces to even out any tension irregularities
Traditional Uses
Treble stitch was essential for creating practical, large-scale items:
- Blankets and afghans — Quick coverage for bedding
- Shawls and wraps — Lightweight, draping garments
- Tablecloths — Large household linens
- Curtains and drapery — Window treatments with good drape
- Summer garments — Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Decorative panels — Background fabric for applied motifs
- Baby blankets — Soft, quick-working coverage for infants
Historical Note
The treble stitch represented efficiency and economy in Victorian needlework—covering maximum area with minimum time investment while maintaining attractive results. During an era when handwork was still essential for household textiles, the treble’s speed made it invaluable for creating necessary items like blankets and curtains. De Dillmont’s clear instructions reflect the stitch’s fundamental importance in the crochet repertoire. The open, airy quality of treble fabric also made it suitable for warm-weather garments in a time before air conditioning, when breathable handmade clothing was crucial for comfort. This stitch proved that functional needlework could also be beautiful, contributing to crochet’s reputation as both practical and decorative.
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