The V stitch is one of those pretty, open stitches that looks fancy but is wonderfully simple. It is made from two double crochets with a chain between them — worked together in the same stitch or space so they form a little “V.”
The V stitch works up quickly, has beautiful drape, and is a go-to for shawls, wraps, scarves, and lacy blankets.
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Before You Begin
- This tutorial uses US crochet terminology
- I recommend a stitch marker in the first and last stitch of each row to keep your count
- I prefer to work in the back bumps of the foundation chain for a cleaner edge
- This post contains affiliate links — see the disclaimer at the top of this page
- If your stitches feel tight, go up a hook size
What You’ll Need
Hook and Notions
Yarn
- Any weight — worsted weight (#4) shown in tutorial for clarity
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- Ch = chain
- Dc = double crochet
- V-st = V stitch
- Sp = space
- St(s) = stitch(es)
- YO = yarn over
Skill Level
Beginner (if you know double crochet)
Gauge
Not important for this tutorial
Stitch Multiple
Multiple of 3 stitches
Foundation Chain
A multiple of 3, plus 4
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a V stitch made of?
A V stitch is two double crochets with a chain 1 between them — (dc, ch 1, dc) — all worked into the same stitch or space so they fan out into a “V” shape.
Do I need to know double crochet first?
Yes — the V stitch is built from double crochets. If you are new to the dc, learn that first, then the V stitch is a breeze.
What can I make with the V stitch?
It is gorgeous for shawls, wraps, scarves, and lacy blankets — anywhere you want an open, drapey, elegant fabric.
Classic Double Crochet V Stitch Instructions
Before you begin, make a slip knot and place it on your hook.
The V stitch is built from double crochets, so it helps to be comfortable with the basic double crochet first. (A quick note: stitch counts and turning chains can vary by designer — here is how I work it.)
A V stitch is simply (dc, ch 1, dc) in the same stitch or space:
- Yarn over, insert your hook into the stitch or space, and make a double crochet
- Chain 1
- Make another double crochet in the same stitch or space — that is your V!
Foundation: Chain a multiple of 3, plus 4. (For practice, chain 22.)
Row 1: Dc in the 4th chain from the hook. *Skip 2 chains, work a V-stitch (dc, ch 1, dc) in the next chain; repeat from * across until 3 chains remain, skip 2 chains, dc in the last chain. Turn.
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as your first dc). Work a V-stitch (dc, ch 1, dc) into the ch-1 space of each V-stitch across, ending dc in the top of the turning chain. Turn.
Repeat Row 2 for the length of your project.
You did it! You learned the Classic Double Crochet V Stitch!
You did it — you learned the classic V stitch! This pretty, open stitch is a favorite for elegant wraps and shawls, and it works up faster than it looks.
What You’ll Love About the Classic Double Crochet V Stitch
- Creates an open, lacy, elegant look
- Beautiful drape — perfect for wearables
- Works up quickly with lovely rhythm
- A go-to for shawls, wraps, and scarves
- Simple once you are comfortable with double crochet
Video Tutorial
Prefer to watch? Follow along with me in the step-by-step video tutorial below.
▶ Watch this tutorial on YouTube
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Common Beginner Mistakes
- Forgetting the chain 1 in the middle of the V
- Working the V into the wrong space — always into the ch-1 space of the V below
- Losing track of the turning chain
- Skipping the wrong number of stitches at the edges
Practice Before Moving On
- Work several rows until the V rhythm feels natural
- Watch how each V lines up neatly above the one below
- Keep an even tension so your Vs stay uniform
Put This Stitch to Work
The V stitch shines in drapey wearables. Keep exploring:
- Browse shawl & wrap patterns — the perfect home for the airy V stitch
- Explore more stitches in the Stitch Library
Engage With Us!
We would love to see how the classic double crochet v stitch is working up for you! Share your progress:
- Instagram & Facebook: Tag @AmericanCrochet and use #ACMakers
- Pinterest: Save this tutorial so you can always find it again!
Looking Ahead
Put your new V stitch to work in a drapey wrap, or explore more techniques in the Stitch Library.
Helpful Resources
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Keep Learning
Ready to explore more techniques? Head back to the library: → Crochet Techniques & Stitch Library
Or start from the beginning with Crochet Fundamentals: → Crochet Fundamentals
