Front post double crochet or FPDC is one of the all-time best crochet stitches. It is versatile enough for adding texture to just about anything that you are making. Blankets, hats, and scarves can all take on that attention-grabbing something with the FPDC.
What Is Front Post Double Crochet?
FPDC is a variant of the double crochet stitch instead of working into the top loops of the stitch; you work it around the post of the stitch. The result is a raised textural effect in your piece, which is commonly seen in cables and ribbing technique.
How to Do Front Post Double Crochet (FPDC)?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Starting with Foundation
Row of double crochet stitches to form base row.
Yarn Over (YO)
Begin the FPDC using a yarn-over as if you were making a traditional double crochet.
Insert the Hook
Instead of inserting the hook into the stitch’s top loops, insert it from the front to back, wrapping it around the post of the stitch from the previous row.
Yarn Over and Pull Through
Yarn over and pull it over the post, so you now have a loop on the hook. Three loops should be sitting on your hook.
Complete the Double Crochet
Yarn over again and draw through the first two loops on your hook.
Once again, yarn over and draw through the remaining two loops.
Continue Across the Row
Continue steps 2 to 5 for each stitch you wish to work as FPDC.
Alternate with Regular Stitches
Mix FPDC in with other stitches (e.g., double crochet) to form patterns such as ribbing or even cables.
Front Post Double Crochet Pattern Example:
Simple Ribbing Pattern:
Foundation Row:
CH a multiple of 6 + 2. Make 1 row of DC.
Row 1:
CH 2 (counts as first DC).
1 FPDC, 1BPDC (Back Post Double Crochet) alternately across the row; end with a DC in the last stitch. Turn.
Row 2:
CH 2: Work 1 FPDC into each FPDC from the previous row and 1 BPDC into each BPDC. Repeat Row 2: Continue until the length desired has been acquired.
Hints for Success with FPDC:
Control of tension: Tension must be uniform in order to make your stitches even. Practice: FPDC takes practice to perfect. It is an easy stitch to master but works with smaller projects.
Experimentation: The combination of FPDC with other stitches will create unique textures.
Creative Uses for FPDC:
Throws: Add dimension to throws and afghans.
Garment: Add textures to hats, sweaters, and scarves.
Accessory: FPDC bags or feather pillows look fabulous.