The two foundational US crochet stitches differ in height, density, and use-case. Knowing when to pick each is the difference between a pattern that works and one that doesn't.
Single crochet (sc) is the shortest standard stitch — work yarn over the hook once, pull through both loops. It's dense, sturdy, and tight, making it the default for amigurumi (where stuffing must not show through), dishcloths, and structured items. Double crochet (dc) is roughly twice as tall — yarn over, insert hook, three more loops to pull through. It's drapier, faster, and lacier, making it the default for blankets, garments, and granny squares. Two rows of dc cover the same height as four rows of sc, so dc projects work up faster but use more yarn per row. For beginners: master sc first (simpler motion), then learn dc (more flexibility).
| Property | Single Crochet (sc) | Double Crochet (dc) |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Short (~1 ch tall) | Tall (~2.5 ch tall) |
| Yarn over before insert | No | Yes — once |
| Loops on hook (pre-pull) | 2 | 3 |
| Density | Dense, tight | Lacier, drapier |
| Speed (rows/hour) | Slower (more rows needed) | Faster (taller stitches) |
| Yarn used per row | Less per row, more rows | More per row, fewer rows |
| Best for | Amigurumi, dishcloths, structured items | Blankets, garments, granny squares |
| UK equivalent | Double crochet (dc) | Treble (tr) |
| Beginner-friendly | Easier — fewer steps | Slightly more complex (yarn-over first) |
| Drape | Stiff, holds shape | Flowy, drapes naturally |
Single crochet creates a tight, dense fabric where individual stitches read clearly. That's exactly what you want for amigurumi — stuffing won't peek through tight sc, and the rounded shape holds. It's also the standard for dishcloths (durability + scrubbing texture), beanies (warmth, no holes), and any item that needs to hold its form. Most beginner patterns start with sc because the motion is the simplest: insert hook, yarn over once, pull through both loops on the hook.
Double crochet works up to twice as fast as sc by row, because each stitch covers more vertical space. That makes it the default for blankets (where you want lots of fabric without spending months), summer wearables (the natural lacy gaps add airflow), and granny squares (the classic round-by-round expansion uses dc clusters). Dc is also drapier — fabric falls naturally rather than holding rigid like sc.
Many patterns alternate sc and dc rows for textural variety. A common combination is the single-double pattern (alternating rows of sc and dc) which produces a fabric with subtle horizontal ridges. Granny ripples mix dc clusters and sc anchors. Surface crochet often uses sc lines on a dc base for contrast.
Is single or double crochet faster?
Double crochet is faster per row because each stitch is taller, so you need fewer rows to achieve the same height. However, dc uses slightly more yarn per stitch.
Which is easier for beginners?
Single crochet — the motion is simpler (no yarn-over before insertion). Most beginner patterns start with sc-only projects like a basic dishcloth or amigurumi.
Can I substitute sc for dc in a pattern?
Not transparently. Sc is half the height of dc, so substituting changes the finished dimensions significantly. If you must, double the row count (two sc rows ≈ one dc row) and accept the denser fabric.
What does dc mean in UK patterns?
In UK terminology, "dc" means double crochet which is the SAME stitch as US single crochet (sc). To avoid confusion, always check whether a pattern is US or UK.
Why is double crochet used for blankets?
Three reasons: it works up faster (fewer rows for the same height), the fabric drapes naturally (no stiffness), and the slightly lacier look adds visual interest without true lace.
Should amigurumi use sc or dc?
Single crochet. The tight fabric prevents stuffing from showing through, and the rounded shape holds form. Amigurumi in dc looks loose and lumpy.