Raised ridges — the secret to cables and ribbing. ImproverUS: fpdcUK: fptr
In US terms this is the Front Post DC (fpdc). In UK terms the same stitch is called the Front Post Treble (fptr). They are the identical stitch — only the name changes. Not sure which system a pattern uses? If it mentions a single crochet, it's US; if it mentions a half treble, it's UK. Convert any pattern with the US ↔ UK tool.
Video tutorial — pick your hand
Every stitch in Crochets has a mirrored lesson for lefties — no more mentally flipping videos.
🎬 Right-handed video by Fiber Flux on YouTube.
How to crochet the Front Post DC — step by step
Yarn over, then insert the hook from front to back to front around the post (the vertical body) of the stitch below — not into the top loops.
Yarn over and pull up a loop; you now have 3 loops on the hook.
Yarn over, pull through 2 loops. Yarn over, pull through the last 2 loops.
The stitch sits raised on the front of the fabric. Alternate with back post stitches for ribbing.
Instructions use US terms. Working left-handed? Do exactly the same moves as a mirror image — insert the hook from the same side of the stitch, working from left to right instead of right to left.
Where to use it
Textured stitches add depth and structure — ideal for blankets, cushions, hats and anything that should feel substantial.
Common mistakes with the Front Post DC
Uneven puffs or bobbles come from pulling loops to different heights — aim for the same height every time.
Texture stitches use more yarn (often 20–40% more) than plain fabric — plan with a yarn calculator.
Forgetting that bobbles pop to the back of the row you're working — work them on wrong-side rows so they face front.
Planning a project with the Front Post DC? Use the free yarn calculator to work out how many skeins you need, and the foundation chain calculator to get the width right the first time.
In UK terms it is called the Front Post Treble (fptr). It is exactly the same stitch as the US Front Post DC (fpdc).
Is the Front Post DC good for beginners?
It is an improver stitch — comfortable once you know the basic stitches. Raised ridges — the secret to cables and ribbing.
Can I crochet the Front Post DC left-handed?
Yes. Left-handed crocheters work the same stitch as a mirror image — right to left becomes left to right. Crochets includes a left-handed video for the Front Post DC, and its pattern tools write instructions in your working direction.
What is the Front Post DC used for?
Textured stitches add depth and structure — ideal for blankets, cushions, hats and anything that should feel substantial.
Learn the Front Post DC in your hand, at your pace
Crochets has 300 stitches with right- and left-handed videos, a pattern designer that writes the pattern for you, and a photo preview of your finished piece. Free to start.