My last post was about starting with the magic circle for several items, such as the hat, fish, fishing poll, and reel. Now, I am going to show you how to start the pants and create the suspenders, with the foundation double crochet.
The foundation double crochet, typically abbreviated fdc, it essentially creating your chains and a row of double crochet (dc) stitches, at the same time. The reason that I recommend using the foundation double crochet is because it gives you so much more stretch, than using a chain foundation, which is great for the waist band of pants. Also, in cases such as the suspenders, it makes the row look more even and consistent, compared to starting with chaining. I did not create this technique, but have found how useful it is and wanted to share!
If you want to give the fdc a try, you can see my fisherman pattern for sale here.
Start with chaining (ch) 3. Yarn over and insert the hook into the first chain you created (3rd chain from the hook), yarn over, and pull up a loop. Now you will have three loops on your hook.
Yarn over, and pull through the first loop on your hook (still have three loops on the hook). This creates the ‘chain’ stich for your next double crochet to go into. Continue to create double crochet as normal. Yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over and pull through remaining two loops on your hook. First fdc made!
To create second and remaining foundation double crochets (fdc), you will work into the ‘chain’ stitch that you created, in the previous fdc (making sure to go under both loops of the chain). Repeating the same process. Yarn over, insert the hook in the ‘chain’ made, yarn over, and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over, pull through the first loop on your hook (creating the ‘chain’). Continue to create double crochet, as normal. Yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over and pull through remaining two loops. Continue for as many as your pattern calls for.
I just love how symmetrical both sides look, which is why one row of foundation double crochet makes great suspender straps! You can also start your fdc with a chain 4, instead of the chain 3. I do this when I am working on a pattern, that has a chain 3 be the first dc of the round/row. That way you work into the 4th chain, leaving 3 chains, to be your first dc.
Love the crochet hook?? It is a Furls Size ‘H/5.0mm’ Cocobolo Hook. **In the spirit of full disclosure, this is an affiliate link, which means that I may get a commissions if you decide to purchase anything from Furls. I only recommend products that I use and love myself, so I know you’ll be in good hands.**
I really hope that you found this helpful and would love to hear that you think! Feel free to share and comment! What do you use the fdc for or what will you use it for??
Thank you for reading!
If you want to take video classes on different stitches and techniques for starting your foundation stitches, go here:
**In the spirit of full disclosure, this is an affiliate link, which means that I may get a commissions if you decide to purchase anything from Craftsy. I only recommend products & systems that I use and love myself, so I know you’ll be in good hands.**
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