Simple Double Crochet Mesh Stitch Tutorial

Double Crochet Mesh Stitch Tutorial by Janice Jones

The double crochet (dc mesh) stitch is a beautifully simple stitch with many applications. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter looking for new patterns or a beginner searching for an easy and versatile stitch, the Double Crochet mesh is a great option.

Why Learn the Double Crochet Mesh Stitch?

• Simplicity: It uses only two basic stitches: double crochet (dc) and chain (ch).
• Versatility: It creates a lightweight, open fabric perfect for scarves, shawls, bags, and home decor items.
• Customization: The open structure is perfect for adding surface embellishments or incorporating beads.

What You Can Make with the Double Crochet Mesh Stitch

• Scarves and Shawls: The drape of the fabric makes it ideal for lightweight accessories, and its simplicity makes these the perfect gifts if you are time-pressed.
• Bags and Totes: The open weave adds visual interest while remaining sturdy. Consider this stitch the next time you need a market bag.
• Dishcloths and Washcloths: The stitch creates a textured fabric perfect for scrubbing. Use rough cotton or scrubby yarn, and you’ll be ready to clean even the toughest stains.
• Blankets and Afghans: Use different yarn weights and colors for unique designs. This stitch is so fast that even a beginner can create a blanket in record time.
• Pillow coverings:  Add a decorative touch to a store-bought throw pillow.
• Free Crochet Mesh Market Bag Pattern

Materials

• Yarn: For the swatch pictured in this tutorial, I used a worsted weight acrylic yarn and a number 7/ 4.5 mm hook
• Crochet hook (size will depend on your yarn choice)
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends

Abbreviations

Ch - chain

dc - double crochet

Sc – single crochet

St/sts - Stitch/stitches

Ch sp -chain space

Sk - skip

Instructions For Making a Double Crochet Mesh Stitch

Foundation Chain: Ch an even number of stitches. For this tutorial, I made 26 chains using worsted weight (number 4) acrylic yarn and a number 7/ 4.5 mm hook.

Row 1: DC in 3rd SC st. from hook. *Ch 1, sk 1 ch, DC in next St. Repeat from * to end. DC in last st. Turn.

Row 2: Ch 4. (Counts as the first dc and one chain stitch.) work DC into the top of the next DC st. *Ch 1, DC in next DC. Rep from * across row. Place the last DC into the top of the last ch sp. Turn. (13 DC sts)

Repeat Row 2 until you reach your desired length. Fasten off, or
(Optional) Add a beginning and ending row of single crochet stitches to your swatch.

Variations

The beauty of the double crochet mesh stitch lies in its adaptability. Here are a few variations:

Lacy Double Crochet Mesh

Chain two instead of chain one between the double crochet stitches and skip two stitches between each double crochet stitch.

Triple Crochet Mesh

For a more open, lacier fabric, Use triple or treble (tr) stitches instead of double crochet stitches. (US terms) 

Half Double Crochet Mesh Stitches

Use half double crochet stitches instead of the double crochet stitch to create a slightly more compact mesh.

Learn more about the Half Double Crochet Mesh Stitch

Mesh Stitch with Beading

Add beads to your work by stringing them onto your yarn before you crochet, then slip a bead up before each double crochet stitch.

Expanding on the Basics

Understanding Gauge

While not as crucial for projects where exact size isn't vital (like scarves or shawls), gauge is essential for garments or items that need to fit. Work a swatch using the chosen yarn and hook size to decide how many stitches and rows make a square inch.

More about Understanding Gauge in Crochet

Turning Chains

I have added a chaining turn of 4 at the beginning of the row. This includes the traditional turning chain of 3 for double crochet plus one for a chain. If you do better with a turning chain of 2 for double crochet, by all means, use your preferred turning chain.

More about Turning Chains in Crochet

Blocking

This fabric looks better if blocked.

More about Blocking Crochet Fabric

Troubleshooting

Tension

Consistent tension is critical for a neat mesh. Avoid pulling on the yarn too tightly or loosely, as this dramatically affects the finished product.

Uneven Stitches

This often happens with new crocheters. If you are new to crocheting, consider practicing your basic double crochet stitch before attempting this mesh stitch.

Curling Fabric

Mesh can have a slight natural curl, primarily when worked with tight tension. Blocking the finished piece can help even it out. Alternately, try relaxing your tension so the stitches are created with more relaxed tension.

Adding Visual Interest

Color Changes: The mesh stitch is perfect for colorwork.

Double Crochet Mesh Stitch:  Pin for Later

Conclusion:

The double crochet mesh stitch is versatile and easy to learn, opening up many possibilities for crocheters of all levels. From simple scarves to intricate blankets, the only limit is your imagination. So, grab your hook and yarn and start creating!

Disclosure:   This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase from one of these links I will get a small  commission.

Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knitter and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

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