If you love the look of double crochet but wish your fabric was denser, neater, and more stable, the Linked Double Crochet (sometimes called LDC) is your new best stitch ever. It looks similar to regular double crochet, but because of the way the stitches are linked together at the tops, you get a tighter, smoother, more uniform fabric.

This stitch is AMAZING for garments, blankets, scarves, hats — anywhere you want clean lines with a bit more structure than a standard double crochet gives you!

Let’s break down exactly how to crochet the Linked Double Crochet stitch step by step… 

What You’ll Need

Before we get started:

• Yarn you love (worsted weight is great for learning!)
  
  

• Crochet hook sized for your yarn
  
  

• Scissors
  
  

• Yarn needle for finishing
  
  

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch = chain
  
  

• dc = double crochet
  
  

• Ldc = linked double crochet
  
  

• st(s) = stitch(es)
  
  

• yo = yarn over
  
  

What Makes Linked Double Crochet Different?

A standard double crochet works into the top loops of the stitch below. A linked double crochet slides in slightly deeper — you insert your hook under the horizontal bar below the top loops of the stitch. This “links” the stitches together across the top row, reducing holes, tightening gaps, and giving an even, almost knit‑like look.

Linked Double Crochet — Step‑by‑Step

Start with a Foundation Chain

Make a foundation chain of any length — for example, ch 20.

Row 1: Standard Double Crochet Row

1. Yo, insert your hook in the 3rd chain from the hook (this counts as your first dc).
   

   

2. Yo, pull up a loop, then yo and pull through two loops, then yo and pull through the last two loops — just like a normal double crochet.
   

   

   
   
   

3. Now instead of inserting into the top loops of the next stitch, you’re going to insert your hook under the horizontal bar between the top loops of the next stitch.
   This bar is just below the top two loops you normally crochet into — if you feel around with your hook, you’ll see a little bridge of yarn sitting there.
   

   

4. Yo, pull up a loop — this loop comes up from under the bar.
   
   

5. Yo, pull through the nest stitch on your hook (this anchors it).
   

   

6. Yo, pull through two loops, then yo, pull through the final two loops.
   

   

You’ve done your first linked double crochet (Ldc)!

Continue Linking Across the Row

Now simply repeat:

• Ldc under the next horizontal bar, yo, pull up loop, pull through the first loop, then finish the dc.
  

  

Do this all the way across, chaining at the end if your pattern calls for it.

In the Round

This stitch looks a little different in the round, but is still beautiful! 

Why The Linked Double Crochet Stitch Is Awesome

• Adds structure and stability that regular dc doesn’t always have
  
  

• Reduces gaps and holes in the fabric
  
  

• Gorgeous in garments where you want a polished look
  
  

Some crocheters even say it looks a bit like knitting — and they’re not wrong!

Project Ideas Using Linked Double Crochet Stitch

Here are some fun places to use this stitch:

• Sweaters & cardigans — the structure makes them drape beautifully
  
  

• Scarves & cowls — it’s cozy and not too airy
  
  

• Blankets & throws — strong and lovely texture
  
  

• Hats & beanies — holds shape nicely
  
  

• Totes & bags — sturdier edges and panels
  
  

Unlike regular dc, which can leave fabric feeling a bit holey, linked double crochet keeps things neat and tidy with cleaner lines.

Tips for Success

Go slow the first few stitches — the bar you’re inserting under is subtle, but once you find it you’ll never forget it!
Keep tension even — if you pull too tight, your stitches will bunch; too loose and the fabric won’t link nicely.
Practice in a swatch — once you can do a row of linked stitches without thinking about it, you’re golden!

Final Stitch

The Linked Double Crochet stitch is a beautiful way to elevate your crochet projects with clean texture, neat stitch lines, and smoother fabric. It’s not hard — it just needs a little patience for the first few linked stitches. Once you’ve got the rhythm, you’ll start using it everywhere!

Grab your hook, get comfy, and give it a try — your next project is going to look so good!