Treble Crochet Stitch Tutorial to Learn Basics on How to Crochet
Treble crochet (tr) is a versatile crochet stitch that creates a taller and looser fabric than shorter stitches. It’s ideal for projects that require a quick workup and a light, airy texture.
Mastering treble crochet expands your capabilities, allowing you to work on a broader range of projects, such as shawls, wraps, afghans, and decorative trims. Its quick execution can significantly speed up the completion of large items.
Learning how to treble crochet involves understanding the basic steps of yarning over twice, inserting the hook, and completing the stitch through successive pull-throughs. It’s a fundamental skill that enhances your crochet work’s variety and beauty.
Treble crochet (tr or trc) involves yarning over twice before inserting the hook into the next stitch, then sequentially pulling through two loops on the hook until only one loop remains. Below are my step-by-step instructions on how to treble crochet, including a video tutorial.
Pay attention to the fact that it’s often called triple crochet in the US, while in the UK, it’s referred to as treble crochet. The stitch itself is performed the same way, regardless of the terminology.
You might wonder what the difference is between treble and double crochet. Let me explain in two words. The treble crochet stitch is taller than the double crochet, involving two yarn overs at the beginning instead of one. This results in a more open and flexible fabric.
You will use treble crochet in lightweight garments, lace patterns, and large projects like throws, summer cardigans, beach covers, and curtains, where its height helps to cover more area faster.
Learning How to Treble Crochet
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Treble Crochet
The very first step is to make a slip knot and foundation chain. Then take the following steps:
Start with yarn overs (yo)
Begin by yarning over, i.e., wrapping the yarn around your hook, twice. This is crucial as it sets up the height and structure of the treble crochet.
Insert the hook
Insert your hook into the stitch where you want to make the treble crochet. Ensure the hook goes under both the top loops of the stitch unless the pattern specifies otherwise.
Yarn over and pull through
After inserting the hook into the stitch, yarn over again and pull through the stitch. At this point, your hook will have four loops.
Complete the stitch
- Yarn over and draw through the first two loops on your hook, leaving you with three loops.
- Yarn over again and pull through the next two loops, leaving you with two loops.
- Finally, yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops on your hook.
You have now completed one treble crochet stitch.
Video tutorial on how to do a treble crochet stitch
For visual learners, I recommend watching a detailed video tutorial by YourCrochet, demonstrating the treble crochet stitch in action.
Tips for beginners
Choose the right materials
Start with a larger hook and thicker yarn to better see your stitches and practice tension control.
Practice yarn control
Hold your yarn consistently to maintain even tension throughout your project. This might take some experimentation with how you wrap the yarn around your fingers.
Slow and steady
Work slowly and ensure each step of the stitch is completed before moving on to the next. Speed will come with practice and muscle memory.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Forgetting yarn overs
A common mistake is not making the initial two yarn overs necessary for the treble crochet, which results in shorter, incomplete stitches. Always count your yo before proceeding.
Pulling through incorrect loops
In the final stages of the stitch, ensure you pull through only two loops at a time to maintain the structure and height of the treble crochet.
Inconsistent loop sizes
Keep the loops on your hook the same size. Don’t allow them to tighten or loosen too much as you work the stitch, which can distort your fabric.
Troubleshooting and tips
Fixing too tight or too loose stitches
If your stitches are too tight or loose, adjust the grip on your hook or how you hold your yarn. Changing hook sizes might also help achieve better tension.
Unraveling mistakes (frogging)
If you make a mistake, don’t hesitate to unravel your stitches back to before the error occurred. This process is commonly known as “frogging.” Use a crochet hook or a yarn needle to help pick back to the correct stitch safely.
Using lifelines
Run a piece of waste yarn through live stitches every few rows for complex patterns. If you make a mistake, you can easily unravel to this “lifeline” without losing all your work.
Stitch counting
Regularly count your stitches, especially in patterns where stitch count is crucial. This helps identify and correct errors early.
Ways to improve your treble crochet technique
Practice consistently, try different yarn weights and hook sizes to see what works best for you, and focus on maintaining even stitch heights and tension.
Tips for reading treble crochet patterns
Familiarize yourself with standard abbreviations and symbols used in crochet patterns. Practicing simple patterns can help build your confidence in reading more complex diagrams.
Summary
Treble crochet is a valuable stitch to learn for its speed and versatility in various crochet projects. Mastering this stitch can significantly expand your crochet abilities and project range. Keep practicing treble crochet to refine your technique and speed. The more you practice, the more natural it will become. With its beauty, versatility, and speed, treble crochet is a fantastic addition to any crocheter’s skill set. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the creative possibilities it opens up.
FAQs About Treble Crochet
What is a treble stitch?
A treble stitch, known as a triple crochet stitch in the US, is a crochet stitch that creates a tall and loose fabric. It involves yarning over twice before inserting the hook into the stitch, making it one of the taller basic crochet stitches.
How do I make a treble stitch?
To make a treble stitch:
- Yarn over twice before inserting the hook into the designated stitch.
- Pull the yarn through the stitch, leaving four loops on your hook.
- Yarn over and pull through two of the loops.
- Yarn over again and pull through two more loops.
- Yarn over once more and pull through the remaining two loops on your hook.
Find detailed guidance, including a video tutorial on how to treble crochet, in the “Step-by-Step Guide on How to Treble Crochet” section above.
What is the difference between a treble stitch and a double crochet stitch?
The treble stitch is taller than a double crochet stitch, involving two yarn overs at the start compared to one for double crochet. This results in a looser and more open fabric.
What is the difference between a treble and a single crochet stitch?
A treble crochet stitch is significantly taller than a single crochet stitch, which does not involve any yarn overs before inserting the hook. Due to their height and open structure, treble stitches create a much airier fabric.
Can I use a treble stitch in any crochet project?
Yes, you can use treble stitches in any crochet project where you desire height and loose fabric. They work well in projects like shawls, scarves, and afghans.
How many loops should I have on my hook when making a treble stitch?
When making a treble stitch, you should have four loops on your hook after pulling the yarn through the stitch, which you then work off in pairs.
Where can I find free treble crochet patterns?
Here at 1001patterns.com, I gathered plenty of free crochet patterns for different projects, so you can practice any crochet technique you would like. Check out the lightweight crochet scarves, shawls, lace blankets, and doilies to try the tr crochet stitch.
Is a treble stitch more difficult than other crochet stitches?
The treble stitch crochet can be more challenging than simpler stitches like single and double crochet due to the multiple yarn overs and steps required to complete each stitch, but with practice, it becomes manageable.
How do I decrease using treble stitches?
To decrease using treble stitches, yarn over twice, insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through two loops twice. Before completing the stitch, yarn over twice again and insert the hook into the next stitch, repeat the yarn over and pull through steps, then yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook.
Are there any tips for keeping my treble stitches neat and even?
To keep treble stitches neat and even, maintain consistent yarn tension and take care not to rush through the yarn overs and loops. Regularly check and adjust your grip if necessary. I prepared more advice in the “Tips for beginners” section.
Can I use a treble stitch to create different textures in my crochet project?
Absolutely! You can use treble stitches to create various textures by altering their placement or combining them with other types of stitches, such as single crochet or double crochet.
What is the purpose of a treble stitch in a crochet pattern?
The treble stitch is often used in crochet patterns to add height and drape, speed up crocheting, and create lacy, open designs.
How do I count my treble stitches in a row?
Count your treble stitches by identifying the top of each completed stitch along the row, counting each ‘V’ shaped stitch top.
Can I use different types of yarn for treble stitches?
You can use any type of yarn for treble stitches, though the stitch definition and drape will vary depending on the yarn’s weight and type.
What is the abbreviation for a treble stitch?
The abbreviation for a treble stitch is “tr” in both the UK and the US, though it’s important to remember the stitch differences between the regions.
How do I fix mistakes in my treble stitches?
To fix mistakes in treble stitches, carefully unravel your work back to the point of error and re-crochet the stitches correctly. This process is often referred to as “frogging.”
Are there any alternative methods for making a treble stitch?
While the basic technique for a treble stitch is standard, variations like linked treble crochet can minimize gaps for a denser fabric.
What is the correct terminology for a treble crochet in the UK vs US?
In the UK, “treble crochet” refers to the stitch known as “triple crochet” or “triple stitch” in the US. However, the actual technique for creating the stitch is the same.
