Crochet Class 7: Learn Treble Crochet Fast with Free Tutorial
If you're learning how to crochet and want to expand your stitch knowledge, the treble crochet is your next step. This tall, airy stitch works up quickly and creates beautiful texture. Let's walk through making a simple treble crochet coaster, just like Christa teaches in her free crochet classes.
Table of contents
What You'll Need
Before we start, gather these supplies:
- Yarn: I used Saver from Ice Yarns (worsted weight, size 4 acrylic)
- 6mm J hook
- Two stitch markers
- Scissors
- Darning needle
The worsted weight yarn gives great stitch definition, perfect for seeing your progress.
Starting with the Slip Knot
Every project begins with a slip knot. Here's how:
- Lay the tail over your non-dominant hand
- Wrap yarn around two fingers, forming an X
- Tilt fingers and hook working yarn under the loop
- Tighten gently and place on hook
Make sure it slides easily—tight knots make crocheting harder.
Creating the Foundation Chain
Chain 10 stitches:
- Hook under yarn, twist to face you
- Pull through loop
- Repeat 9 more times
- Keep chains loose
If chaining feels awkward, Krista's beginner crochet class covers it in detail. Always work on the fatter part of your hook for even tension.
The Turning Chain
For treble crochets, chain 4 extra after your initial 10:
- These extra chains count as your first treble crochet
- They create height before turning the work
- Unlike simple stitches, trebles need more space
Roll your chain to see the back bumps—that's where we'll work.
First Treble Crochet
Find the fifth chain from your hook (skip the first four):
- Yarn over hook twice
- Insert into fifth back bump
- Pull yarn through (four loops on hook now)
- Yarn over, pull through two loops
- Repeat twice more
This "triple takeoff" is what makes treble crochet unique.
Working Across the Row
Place a marker in your first treble stitch—it helps track rows later. Continue:
- One treble in each remaining chain (10 total)
- Keep consistent tension
- Watch how the stitches form taller Vs than double crochet
That chain four at the start? Don't work into it—it's just for height.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Stitches feel too tight
Fix: Use a bigger hook for just the starting chain
Problem: Hooks snagging
Fix: Always push loops to the wider hook part
At the row's end, mark your last stitch. Beginners often miss it.
Building the Rows
For our coaster, we'll make four total rows:
- Chain 4, turn
- Treble into each stitch (including marked ones)
- Move markers up each row
Turn work by sliding hand under yarn—it keeps edges neat. See how the "little dimples" show where to insert your hook next? Those are your stitch tops.
Finishing Strong
After the last row:
-
Chain 1 to lock stitches
-
Cut yarn, leaving 5" tail
-
Pull hook up to secure
-
Weave ends with needle
Notice the loopy sides from chain 4 turns? Using chain 3 instead makes straighter edges, but chain 4 is standard for treble crochet.
Why Treble Crochet Rocks
This stitch:
-
Works up 30% faster than double crochet
-
Creates great drape for blankets
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Perfect for lacy summer tops
Ready for more? Check out Christa's complete beginner course where she compares all basic stitches.
Happy stitching! Now that you know how the treble crochet works, what will you make first?
Treble crochet is a simple way to add height, texture, and speed to your crochet projects. With just a few basic supplies, you can create unique items like coasters, blankets, or lacy wearables. Practice the steps, pay attention to your tension, and use stitch markers to stay on track. Once you master the treble crochet, you’ll have more options for your next creative projects. Keep experimenting and enjoy the process—your skills will grow with each new piece you make!
FAQs
1. What is the difference between treble and double crochet?
A treble crochet (tr) is taller than a double crochet (dc). For treble crochet, you yarn over twice before inserting the hook, while a double crochet only needs one yarn over.
2. Why are my treble crochet stitches too tight?
Tight stitches are usually caused by tight tension. Try loosening your grip on the yarn and hook. You can also use a larger hook for your foundation chain to help.
3. Can I use a different yarn and hook size?
Yes! You can use any yarn and suitable hook size you like. The coaster may turn out larger or smaller, depending on your choice.
4. My coaster is curling at the edges. What should I do?
Curling happens if your tension is uneven or your stitches are too tight. Try blocking your coaster by gently wetting and shaping it to lay flat, or adjust your tension while crocheting.
5. How do I know where to put my first and last stitches?
Marking the first and last stitches with a stitch marker makes it easy. The first stitch goes right after the turning chain, and the last stitch is at the top of the previous row.
6. How do I keep my rows straight?
Use stitch markers and always count your stitches at the end of each row. Make sure you are not missing any stitches at the start or end.
7. Can I make this coaster bigger?
Absolutely! Simply add more stitches to your starting chain or more rows to make a larger coaster, placemat, or even a blanket.
Christa Patel is the creative mind behind the Secret Yarnery, a trusted resource for crochet enthusiasts worldwide. With years of experience, Christa specializes in designing beginner-friendly yet stunning crochet patterns that inspire creativity and confidence in crafters of all skill levels.
As a passionate crocheter, Christa is known for her clear and approachable teaching style, breaking down complex patterns into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Through her engaging video tutorials, written patterns, and helpful tips, she has cultivated a community where crocheters can connect, learn, and share their work.
Christa’s dedication to making crochet fun and accessible shines in every project she creates, from colorful blankets to intricate borders. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just picking up a hook for the first time, Christa's guidance will help you craft something beautiful.
For more crochet patterns, tips, and inspiration, visit her website at The Secret Yarnery, or check out her YouTube channel filled with step-by-step tutorials.