In this free step-by-step crochet stitch tutorial I show how to make a front post double crochet (fpdc) and a back post double crochet (bpdc). It is similar to a simple double crochet (dc); the only difference is where you insert your hook. For a front post double crochet, you will bring the post in the previous row forward, while for a back post double crochet, you will bring the post in the previous row backward. Front post double crochets and back post double crochets are often used in other stitch patterns to add texture and depth to the fabric.
This stitch is a solid crochet stitch. It creates dense, durable fabric and works great for potholders, washcloths, coasters and other projects that need structure and durability.
Materials and tools
Yarn: For this tutorial I use Hjertegarn Diamond mercerized cotton 8/4, 50 g = 165 m, color: 706 (sea green). However, you can use your favorite yarn depending on the crochet project.
Hook: I use a 2.0 mm hook. If you are using a different yarn, choose the hook size that is recommended on your yarn label.
Printable PDF and chart
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Photo instructions for the front post and back post double crochet
Row 1
1. Start by chaining any number of chains. You will start working in the fourth chain from your hook.
2. So, make a double crochet in the fourth chain from your hook.
3. Continue making double crochets in every stitch until the end of the row.
Row 2
4. Chain two and turn your work around. Chain two counts as a stitch.
5. Next you will make a front post double crochet in the second stitch. So, yarn over.
6. Insert your hook bringing the post of the second double crochet to the front.
7. Yarn over.
8. Pull the yarn through. Now you have three loops on your hook.
9. Yarn over.
10. Pull the yarn through the first two loops on your hook. Now you have two loops on your hook.
11. Yarn over.
12. Pull the yarn through both loops. You have just made a front post double crochet!
13. Make another front post double crochet in the next stitch.
14. Continue making front post double crochets in every stitch until the end of the row.
15. At the end of the row make a double crochet in the turning chain.
Row 3
16. Chain two and turn your work around. Chain two counts as a stitch.
17. Next you will make a back post double crochet in the second stitch. So, yarn over.
18. Insert your hook bringing the post of the second stitch to the back. Yarn over.
19. Pull the yarn through. Now you have three loops on your hook.
20. Yarn over.
21. Pull the yarn through the first two loops on your hook. Now you have two loops on your hook.
22. Yarn over.
23. Pull the yarn through both loops. You have just made a back post double crochet!
24. This is how it looks on the other side.
25. Make another back post double crochet in the next stitch.
26. Continue making back post double crochets in every stitch until the end of the row. At the end of the row make a double crochet in the turning chain. For the rest of the pattern repeat rows 2-3.
Finished front post and back post double crochet
27. Done!
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