Double Crochet Ripple Stitch Afghan: A Beginner-Friendly Tutorial

Updated at: 29/05/2025

Are you dreaming of a cozy, handmade afghan to snuggle up with on chilly evenings? Then look no further! This tutorial will guide you through creating a stunning Double Crochet Ripple Stitch Afghan, even if you're a complete beginner to crochet. The ripple stitch pattern, with its beautiful undulating texture, is surprisingly simple to master, offering a rewarding project that’s perfect for showcasing your growing crochet skills. Forget complicated patterns and frustrating instructions; this project prioritizes clarity and ease of understanding, allowing you to focus on the joy of crafting.

This Double Crochet Ripple Stitch Afghan pattern is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their experience level. We’ll break down each step with clear explanations and accompanying photos, ensuring you’ll feel confident in tackling this beautiful project. Ready to transform simple yarn into a cherished heirloom? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and begin creating your own gorgeous ripple stitch afghan!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • H hook
  • Medium worsted Impeccable yarn
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors to cut your yarn. Dull scissors can cause frayed ends and make your work look messy.
  • Always check your stitch count regularly, especially at the end of each row. This will help you catch mistakes early and avoid having to unravel large sections of your work.
  • Be mindful of your tension. Consistent tension is crucial for a neat and even ripple effect. Practice your double crochet stitches to ensure they are uniform in size.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Foundation Chain

    • Double crochet in the third chain from the hook.
    • Double crochet in the next eight chains.
    Double crochet in the next eight chains.Double crochet in the next eight chains.
    Foundation Chain

  2. First Ripple

    • Work three double crochet in the next chain.
    • Double crochet in the next nine chains.
    • Skip two chains and work a double crochet in the next nine chains.
    • Work three double crochet in the next chain. Repeat this pattern (three double crochet, nine double crochet, skip two, nine double crochet) back and forth until the end.
    Work three double crochet in the next chain. Repeat this pattern (three double crochet, nine double crochet, skip two, nine double crochet) back and forth until the end.Work three double crochet in the next chain. Repeat this pattern (three double crochet, nine double crochet, skip two, nine double crochet) back and forth until the end.Work three double crochet in the next chain. Repeat this pattern (three double crochet, nine double crochet, skip two, nine double crochet) back and forth until the end.
    First Ripple

  3. Turning and Starting Row 2

    • Double crochet in the last chain, chain 1, turn your work.
    Double crochet in the last chain, chain 1, turn your work.
    Turning and Starting Row 2

  4. Working Row 2 (Back Loops)

    • Double crochet in the next back loop, and then double crochet in the next eight (total of nine).
    • Work three double crochet in the center of the three previous double crochet (in the back loop).
    • Work a double crochet in the back loops of the next nine stitches.
    • Skip two stitches and work a double crochet in the next nine back loops.
    Skip two stitches and work a double crochet in the next nine back loops.Skip two stitches and work a double crochet in the next nine back loops.Skip two stitches and work a double crochet in the next nine back loops.Skip two stitches and work a double crochet in the next nine back loops.
    Working Row 2 (Back Loops)
    • Work three double crochet in the same stitch in the back loop.
    • Double crochet in the next nine stitches in the back loop. Alternate between skipping two and the three double crochet after your nine double crochet until you reach the end of the row.
    Double crochet in the next nine stitches in the back loop. Alternate between skipping two and the three double crochet after your nine double crochet until you reach the end of the row.Double crochet in the next nine stitches in the back loop. Alternate between skipping two and the three double crochet after your nine double crochet until you reach the end of the row.
    Working Row 2 (Back Loops)

  5. Subsequent Rows

    • At the end of Row 2, leave a stitch unworked. Repeat this for subsequent rows (chain 1, turn, work pattern, leave a stitch unworked at the end).
    At the end of Row 2, leave a stitch unworked. Repeat this for subsequent rows (chain 1, turn, work pattern, leave a stitch unworked at the end).
    Subsequent Rows

  6. Color Changes

    • Continue alternating colors in sets of four rows (or your preferred number of rows).
    • To add a new color, slip stitch, chain 1, turn, and repeat the pattern.
    To add a new color, slip stitch, chain 1, turn, and repeat the pattern.
    Color Changes

Read more: Easy Color Block Crochet Blanket Tutorial for Beginners

Tips

  • Adjust hook size for desired size. Chain sizes can be scaled down for a smaller Afghan.
  • Gauge: 4 rows of each color = 4 inches.
  • Measure your chain to ensure accuracy, especially if scaling down the pattern.
  • The number of rows per color is flexible; you can adjust based on your preference.
  • Weave in all ends with a yarn needle after completion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Uneven tension throughout the rows creates a wavy or bumpy ripple effect, rather than the clean, defined ripples.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension by using a consistent amount of pressure on your yarn throughout the project.

2. Incorrect Stitch Count in Rows

Reason: Losing or gaining stitches leads to a ripple pattern that is off-center or uneven, disrupting the overall look.
Solution: Carefully count stitches at the end of each row to ensure you haven't added or dropped any.

FAQs

What yarn weight is best for a double crochet ripple stitch afghan?
A medium weight (worsted weight #4) yarn is ideal for a double crochet ripple stitch afghan. It provides a good balance of stitch definition and warmth without being too bulky or too thin.
How can I adjust the size of my ripple afghan?
The size of your afghan is determined by the number of chains you start with and the number of rows you complete. To make it larger, increase your starting chain and the number of rows. To make it smaller, decrease both.
What if I make a mistake? How do I fix it?
Don't worry, mistakes happen! For small errors, you can usually frog (rip out) a few rows and re-crochet them. For larger errors, consult online resources or videos for troubleshooting specific ripple stitch issues. The key is to take your time and check your work as you go.