How to Crochet, Triple (aka Treble) Crochet Stitch

This is part of a series of articles I've done on crochet. If you're just starting out, please check out my other articles first.

Triple Crochet (also known as Treble Crochet), is abbreviated as 'tr'. The stitch is similar to that of the Double Crochet (dc) in that it is a long stitch, and works up to make an open fabric. This stitch works up fast with with thick yarn - very satisfying for making a quick throw blanket. It's also commenly used with other stitches to create motifs, or crochet cotten for doilies and lace.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Some basic knowledge of crochet
• A crochet hook
• Yarn
• Patiance

1. Start by making a chain of any length. Make three more chains than the number of stitches you'll need. For example, if you know you want to have 20 stitches in each row, you will need a chain of 23.

2. Wind the yarn around the hook twice. You will start your first tr in the fifth chain from the hook. Insert the hook from front to back into the chain. Wind the yarn around the hook, and draw this back though the chain you inserted the hook into. You now have four loops on your hook.

3. Wind the yarn around the hook, and draw though the first 2 loops on your hook. There are now three loops on the hook. Wind the yarn around the hook, and draw through the next 2 loops on on the hook. There are now two loops left on the hook.

4. Wind the yarn around the hook, and draw it through the last two loops on the hook. This is one complete tr. Work one tr in each chain to the end of the piece. Turn the piece, keeping the crochet hook in your working hand.

5. Make four chains. These are your 'turning chains'. Skip the first tr you made in the previous row, and begin this row in the next tr stitch. Tr across to finish the row. The last tr is made in the top stitch of your turning chain.
   
   Repeat until you have an many rows as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are just starting, don't go for the fancy angel hair or fun fur yarn just yet. Get something cheaper and easier to work with, like Red Heart, or a similar acrylic yarn.
• If you mess up, don't worry, simply remove the hook from the work, and pull out the stitches.
• Don't pull too tightly on the yarn, it will make it difficult to work the next row.

[goodselfme]

on 10/21/2009 Good detailed information on the triple crochet stitch.5*