After learning a handful of basic crochet stitches—like chains (ch), slip stitch (sl st), single crochet (sc), half-double crochet (hdc), and double crochet (dc)—treble crochet is a great stitch to learn next!
Treble crochet, also called triple crochet, is the next tallest stitch after the double crochet. The height of each stitch makes treble crochet a great choice for quick projects. While each individual stitch may take longer to make, each row is tall, so you make a lot of progress row by row.
These tall stitches can also add visual interest to your projects. Since they are so much taller than other stitches, they give a beautiful lacy, open pattern to your work.
Learning how to crochet these stitches into the front of a post opens up a whole world of new patterns! Keep reading to learn how to crochet the front post treble crochet stitch.
Abbreviations
- CH(s): chain(s)
- TC: treble crochet
- FPTC: front post treble crochet
- YO: yarn over
- ST: stitch
How to Front Post Treble Crochet
Before you can FPTC, you’ll need to crochet a row. To begin, CH your desired number of stitches. CH 4 and turn your work.
Round 1: TC in each CH across. The CH 4 counts as your first ST in the row. To make your first TC, YO twice and insert your hook into the 5th CH. YO and pull through the CH. YO again and pull through 2 loops on your hook. YO and pull through 2 loops on your hook. YO and pull through the 2 remaining loops on your hook (see photos and captions below for a step-by-step breakdown of the TC ST). Repeat in the rest of the CHs. CH 4 and turn your work.
Round 2: Now that you know how to TC, all you have to learn is FPTC. Your first stitch in this round will be a normal TC. Then, you will work your remaining stitches into the post of the stitches in round 1 (FPTC). To do this, insert your hook from the front to the back of your work. Then, slip the hook back to the front. In the photos, you can see that the post is in front of your hook!
Repeat rounds 1-2 as desired (remember to CH 4 before turning to each new row)!
In the photo below, I used worsted weight yarn and a US I hook (5.5 mm). I repeated rounds 1-2 twice.
Applications of Front Post Treble Crochet
- Cables! Simple, post stitches are the foundation of crochet cables. Once you’ve learned how to FPTC, you can apply the same technique to any of your other stitches. For example, you can work a double crochet into the front post of a stitch, creating a front post double crochet (FPDC). The only other technique you need to create cables is back post stitches, and they’re just as simple as front post stitches! To back post crochet, all you need to do is insert your hook in front of the stitch in the previous row, rather than behind it. This minute-long video from KnittingHelp.com walks you through a BPTC.
- More complex stitches. Front and back post stitches are used as building blocks to form more complicated stitches like the alpine stitch, which you can learn in my Easy Step-by-Step Guide for the Alpine Stitch (with Photos).
- Adding texture. FPTC raises the post of a stitch. This adds both pattern and texture to a project. You can mimic ribbing with FPTC, create patterns that resemble a basketweave, and, of course, work crochet cables.
Free Patterns with FPTC!
Crochet Easy Beginner Cable Blanket
Remember what I said about cables? Well, this is the perfect project for anyone looking to give them a try for the first time! This baby blanket pattern is absolutely gorgeous. While the pattern is simple, repeating just 2 rows, the final blanket’s cables make give a more complicated look.
You can find this pattern for free on the Sirin’s Crochet blog at this link here. There is also an ad-free version available for purchase on her Etsy account.
Diagonal Diamonds Woven Throw Crochet Pattern
If cables aren’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other fun textures that you can create with FPTC! This next pattern, for another blanket, creates a stunning woven pattern. The raised stitches make for a cozy blanket, and its diamond pattern has a simultaneously modern and timeless look.
You can find the pattern on Mama in a Stitch’s blog at this link here. A printable, ad-free version of the pattern is also available for purchase on Etsy.
Red Heart Alpine Pocket Scarf
This cozy scarf keeps both your neck and hands warm! Find the pattern on the Moogly Blog at this link here. Perfect for the colder months, this scarf has a beautiful texture from the alpine stitch’s alternating front post stitches.
Meara Fisherman Sweater Crochet Pattern
Blankets and scarves aren’t your thing? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Check out this incredible cable sweater! This sweater is perfect for those cold winter months. Made with a wool and acrylic blend, the final product is soft and warm. Plus, the yarn helps the sweater drape beautifully and gives the cables great shape and detail! The pattern is available for free on the Hopeful Honey blog. Link here!
Now that you know how to FPTC, you have unlocked a whole new set of textured crochet patterns with endless possibilities—I hope you’re feeling inspired to go out and make something new!
Leave a Comment