How to Do a Front Post Double Crochet

Written by: Jeff Tse

October 11, 2024

Time to read 7 min

Table of content

Introduction What is a Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc)? Materials Needed Step-by-Step: How to Do a Front Post Double Crochet Step 1: Prepare Your Foundation Row Step 2: Begin the FPdc Row Step 3: Yarn Over Step 4: Position Your Hook Step 5: Wrap Around the Post Step 6: Complete the Stitch Step 7: Repeat Example Pattern to Practice Where to Use Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc) Variations of the Front Post Double Crochet Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Learn More about Crochet

Introduction

The front post double crochet (FPdc) stitch is a fundamental technique in the world of crochet that adds texture and dimension to your projects. Unlike traditional double crochet, where you work into the top loops of the previous row, FPdc involves wrapping your hook around the post of a stitch. This creates a raised effect on the fabric's surface, resulting in visually striking patterns that can elevate any crochet piece.

Mastering FPdc is essential for crocheters looking to enhance their skills and create intricate designs. Whether you're crafting cozy blankets, stylish hats, or elegant garments, incorporating this stitch can transform your work into something truly special. The FPdc is particularly effective in creating ribbing, which provides elasticity and structure, making it ideal for cuffs and collars.

In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of performing front post double crochet. With clear instructions and helpful tips, you'll soon be able to incorporate this versatile stitch into your favorite patterns with confidence. Let’s dive in and discover the beauty of front post double crochet!

💡 Did you know

The front post double crochet (FPdc) stitch has become a staple in crochet, celebrated for its ability to create textured, raised designs. While the exact origins of FPdc are not well-documented, it is widely used in various crochet patterns today. This technique allows crocheters to work around the vertical post of a double crochet stitch from the previous row, resulting in a three-dimensional effect that enhances the fabric's visual appeal. FPdc is particularly popular for creating ribbing, cables, and decorative borders, making it an essential skill for both beginners and experienced crafters. As crochet continues to evolve, FPdc remains a versatile tool in the crochet toolbox, enabling endless creative possibilities.

What is a Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc)?

The Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc) is a variation of the standard double crochet stitch, which shifts the insertion point from the top of the stitch (the loops) to around the post of the stitch from the previous row. The result is a raised stitch that creates depth and texture on the front of your fabric.

Unlike a standard double crochet that sits flat within the fabric, the FPdc "pops" outward, making it ideal for:

Creating ribbed or cabled patterns
Adding texture and dimensionality to your projects
Providing extra structure to hats, blankets, and more

Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find endless opportunities to incorporate this stitch into your work.

Materials Needed

Before you begin practicing the front post double crochet stitch, gather the following materials:

Yarn : Any yarn type will work; however, worsted weight yarn is recommended for beginners.
Crochet Hook : Choose a hook size appropriate for your yarn. A G/4.0mm or H/5.0mm hook is commonly used for worsted weight yarn.
Scissors : For cutting yarn.
Tapestry Needle : For weaving in ends.

Step-by-Step: How to Do a Front Post Double Crochet

Step 1: Prepare Your Foundation Row

Chain Your Foundation : Start by chaining the desired length for your project. For example, if you're making a swatch, chain 20 stitches.
Work a Row of Double Crochet : In the second chain from the hook, work a double crochet stitch across the entire foundation chain. This will create the base for your FPdc stitches.

Step 2: Begin the FPdc Row

Turn Your Work : After completing your first row of double crochet, turn your work to start the next row.
Chain 2 : Instead of chaining 3 (which is typical for standard double crochet), chain 2. This accounts for the shorter height of the FPdc.

Step 3: Yarn Over

Yarn Over : Wrap the yarn around your hook as you would for a standard double crochet stitch.

Step 4: Position Your Hook

Insert Your Hook : Insert your hook from front to back between the posts of the first and second double crochet stitches of the previous row.
Bring It Back to the Front : Pull your hook out to the front between the second and third stitches, positioning it horizontally behind the post of the stitch you’re working around.

Step 5: Wrap Around the Post

Yarn Over Again : With your hook now positioned around the post of the stitch, yarn over once more.
Pull Up a Loop : Draw up a loop through the post of that stitch. You should now have three loops on your hook.

Step 6: Complete the Stitch

Yarn Over and Pull Through Two Loops : Yarn over again and pull through the first two loops on your hook. You will now have two loops remaining.
Yarn Over and Pull Through Two Loops Again : Yarn over one last time and pull through the last two loops on your hook. You have now completed one front post double crochet stitch!

Step 7: Repeat

Continue working FPdc stitches around each post in your row until you reach the end.

Example Pattern to Practice

To practice your FPdc skills, try creating a simple swatch:

Foundation Row : Chain 20 stitches and work one row of double crochet across.
FPdc Row : In the next row, alternate between regular double crochets and front post double crochets to see how they create texture.

Where to Use Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc)

1. Ribbing and Borders

One of the most popular uses for the FPdc is to create ribbed textures in hats, sweaters, and blankets. By alternating between FPdc and Back Post Double Crochet (BPdc), you can form a ribbed pattern that’s ideal for snug-fitting edges, like the cuffs of a sweater or the brim of a hat.

Example : For a 1x1 ribbing, you alternate between FPdc and BPdc stitches across the row. This creates a stretchy, elastic texture that mimics knitted ribbing.

2. Textured Blankets

FPdc can be incorporated into blanket patterns to add depth and visual interest. When worked in rows or rounds, FPdc creates raised ridges that enhance the tactile quality of the fabric. This technique is especially effective in baby blankets or lap throws, where texture can make the piece more engaging.

Example Pattern : Work a series of FPdc across several rows to create a textured stripe effect in your blanket design.

3. Cables

Combining FPdc with other stitches allows you to create intricate cable designs that add elegance to your projects. Cables often involve crossing stitches over one another, and FPdc provides the necessary height and structure to achieve this effect.

Example Pattern : Use FPdc in conjunction with regular double crochet stitches to form cable patterns in sweaters or scarves. The raised stitches will create a beautiful visual contrast against the background fabric.

4. Hats and Beanies

Using FPdc in hat patterns not only adds visual interest but also helps create a snug fit around the head. The elasticity provided by alternating FPdc and BPdc stitches makes hats more comfortable and stylish.

Example Pattern : Start with a magic ring or chain foundation, then alternate between FPdc and BPdc as you work up the hat to create a textured band.

5. Home Decor Items

FPdc can be applied to various home decor projects such as pillow covers, table runners, or wall hangings. The added texture can elevate simple designs into eye-catching pieces that enhance your living space.

Example Pattern : Create a textured pillow cover using FPdc for an inviting touch on your couch or bed.

Variations of the Front Post Double Crochet

Once you’ve mastered the basic FPdc, you can start experimenting with variations to enhance your crochet projects.

1. Back Post Double Crochet (BPdc)
This is the reverse of the FPdc. Instead of working the stitch around the front of the post, you insert your hook from the back, creating a recessed stitch. Combining FPdc and BPdc stitches creates rich textures.

2. Front Post Treble Crochet (FPtr)

For an even more raised effect, you can use the Front Post Treble Crochet. The FPtr stitch is similar to the FPdc but uses an extra yarn over at the beginning to create a taller stitch.

3. Crossed Front Post Double Crochet

To create a more complex texture, try crossing two FPdc stitches. This variation involves working two FPdc stitches in reverse order (i.e., crocheting the second stitch first and the first stitch second), resulting in a crisscross effect.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Uneven Tension: FPdc stitches can sometimes appear looser than surrounding stitches. This is because the post of the stitch is larger than the top loops, causing the stitch to be more open. To prevent this, try tightening your tension slightly when working the FPdc stitch.
Skipping Stitches: It can be easy to accidentally skip a stitch when working FPdc because the post of the stitch is in a different place than the top loops. Be sure to count your stitches regularly to ensure you're not missing any.
Losing Track of Rows: If you’re alternating between FPdc and BPdc, it’s easy to lose track of where you are in the pattern. To avoid this, mark your rows with stitch markers or count out loud as you work.