Struggling with crochet projects that work up too slowly or look too loose? The half double crochet stitch (HDC) is your solution.
In this guide, I’ll show you:
- How to master this versatile stitch step-by-step
- Why HDC creates perfectly balanced fabric
- Creative ways to use it in beautiful projects
As a crochet teacher for over 8 years, I’ve helped hundreds of beginners transform their skills with this exact technique. The HDC sits perfectly between single and double crochet—giving you the perfect balance of speed and coverage.
For blankets, hats, or scarves, this “goldilocks” stitch creates fabric that’s neither too dense nor too open.
Ready to make your crochet projects look professional while working up faster? Let’s get started with this game-changing stitch!
Benefits of Using the Half Double Crochet Stitch
The HDC stitch isn’t just another stitch, it’s a game-changer for your crochet projects. Here’s why:
- Works up faster than single crochet but provides better coverage than double crochet
- Creates a medium-density fabric perfect for items that need some drape but also structure
- Uses less yarn than single crochet for the same area
- Perfect for beginners who want to move beyond the basics
- Creates a unique texture with its third loop that other stitches don’t have
I love using HDC for items like hats, scarves, and baby blankets. The medium height gives projects a polished look while still working up quickly.
Ready to try it yourself?
Materials You’ll Need to Start
Let’s gather your supplies! You don’t need anything fancy to master this stitch.
Basic supplies:
- Crochet hook (size H/5mm is great for beginners)
- Worsted weight yarn (I recommend a light color for your first try)
- Scissors
- Stitch marker (or just a small piece of contrasting yarn)
That’s it! No special tools required. The beauty of crochet is its simplicity. You can practice anywhere with just these few items.
Got everything? Great! Let’s learn how to do this stitch.
Step-by-Step: How to Do the Half Double Crochet Stitch
Let me break down the HDC process into simple, manageable steps. Each stage is crucial for creating perfect half double crochet stitches.
Starting Your Foundation
- Make a slip knot and place it on your hook.
- Chain the desired number for your project (try 15-20 chains for practice).
- Remember: your turning chain counts as your first stitch.
Creating Your First HDC Stitch
- Yarn over (YO) before inserting your hook into the third chain from the hook.
- Insert your hook into that third chain.
- Yarn over again and pull through the chain (you’ll now have 3 loops on your hook).
- Yarn over once more and pull through all three loops at once.
Congratulations! You’ve just completed your first HDC stitch.
Working Across the First Row
- For each remaining chain, yarn over before inserting your hook.
- Insert hook into the next chain.
- Yarn over and pull through (3 loops on hook).
- Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops.
- Repeat until you reach the end of your foundation chain.
Starting the Second Row
- Chain 2 (this is your turning chain).
- Turn your work.
- Yarn over before inserting hook into the first stitch.
- Complete your HDC as before (yarn over, pull through, yarn over, pull through all 3 loops).
- Continue across the row.
Working in the Round
- Create a magic circle (or chain 4 and join with slip stitch).
- Chain 2 (this counts as your first HDC).
- Work HDC stitches around the circle.
- Join with a slip stitch to the top of your starting chain-2.
- Chain 2 and continue working in the round.
Pro tip: Place a stitch marker in the first stitch of each row or round to keep track of your beginning position!
How to Read HDC in Crochet Patterns
Confused by crochet patterns? Don’t worry—I was too at first!
In patterns, you’ll see HDC written several ways:
- “hdc” (most common in US patterns)
- “half dc” (sometimes used in UK patterns)
- “½ dc” (occasionally in older patterns)
Here’s what a basic pattern section might look like:
Example pattern: “Row 1: Ch 15, hdc in 3rd ch from hook and each ch across. (13 hdc)”
Translation: Chain 15 stitches. Make a half double crochet in the third chain from your hook and continue making HDC stitches in each chain until the end. You should have 13 HDC stitches total.
Important note for beginners: UK patterns call our HDC a “half treble.” If the pattern seems off, check whether it’s using US or UK terminology!
Creative Ways to Use the HDC Stitch
The basic HDC is just the beginning! Let’s explore some exciting variations that will take your projects to the next level.
1. Working in the Third Loop
- Complete a row of standard HDC stitches.
- Look at the back of your work—you’ll see a horizontal bar below the V of each stitch.
- When working the next row, insert your hook under this third loop only.
- Complete your HDC as normal.
This technique creates a textured ribbed look perfect for hat brims, cuffs, and scarf edges.
2. Herringbone Half Double Crochet
- Yarn over before inserting your hook into the stitch.
- Insert hook and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).
- Pull the first loop on your hook through the second loop only.
- Yarn over and pull through both remaining loops.
The result is a tight, woven-look fabric that looks similar to knitting. Great for bags and slippers!
3. HDC2TOG (Half Double Crochet 2 Together)
- Yarn over, insert hook into first stitch, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).
- Yarn over, insert hook into next stitch, pull up a loop (5 loops on hook).
- Yarn over and pull through all 5 loops at once.
This decreased stitch creates clean shaping for hats, stuffed items, and garments.
4. Camel Stitch (Front Cross HDC)
- Complete a row of standard HDC.
- For the next row, insert your hook from front to back into the “bump” on the front of each stitch.
- Complete HDC as normal.
This creates a textured fabric with a chain-like appearance on the front.
5. Alternating Front and Back Post HDC
- Yarn over, insert hook from front to back around the post of the next stitch.
- Complete HDC as normal.
- Yarn over, insert hook from back to front around the post of the next stitch.
- Complete HDC as normal.
- Repeat pattern across row.
This technique creates effective ribbing for warm scarves, sweaters, and blankets with nice depth.
Free Patterns Using the Half Double Crochet Stitch
Want to try your new skill on a complete project? Here are some beginner-friendly patterns that showcase the HDC stitch:
- Simple HDC Dishcloth – Perfect first project that’s actually useful!
- The “Weekend Warmer” Scarf – Uses just one skein of yarn
- Basic Beanie Hat – Works up in about 2 hours
- HDC Baby Blanket – Simple but impressive
- Phone Cozy – Quick project you can finish in one sitting
These patterns all use basic HDC stitches with minimal additional techniques, making them perfect for beginners.
Give yourself permission to be imperfect at first! Each project helps you improve.
Advanced Tips for Perfecting Your HDC Stitch
Ready to take your HDC to the next level? Try these tips:
- Watch your tension. HDC looks best when worked with consistent tension. Not too tight, not too loose.
- Count your stitches. Use stitch markers at the beginning and end of rows to help keep track.
- Master the turning chain. A chain-2 at the beginning of HDC rows can sometimes look different from the rest of your stitches. Try a chain-1 instead for a more uniform edge.
- Learn to “read” your stitches. Look at your work and identify the “V” shape at the top of each stitch to ensure you never miss one.
The most common mistake with HDC? Forgetting to yarn over before inserting your hook. If your stitch looks too short, that’s probably what happened!
Final Thoughts
From humble dishcloths to blankets, the HDC stitch has transformed my crochet work. It can do the same for you. When I first started, my stitches were uneven and my edges wavy. Now I create projects I’m happy to give – all thanks to mastering this versatile stitch.
The half double crochet sits in that sweet spot between:
- Speed and detail
- Simplicity and interest
- Beginner-friendly yet professional-looking
Remember this: every expert started exactly where you are now.
Take it one stitch at a time. Practice for just 15 minutes daily. Before you know it, your hands will flow naturally with this rhythm.
Your next beautiful creation is just a half double crochet away. Pick up your hook and start today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my HDC stitch count keep changing by the end of each row?
You’re likely missing the last stitch of each row, which can be hard to see. Try placing a stitch marker in the last stitch of each row before turning your work.
Can I substitute HDC for double crochet in a pattern?
Yes, but your project will be shorter and denser than the original design. You’ll also need to adjust your stitch count and possibly use more yarn for the same width.
How do I fix the “stair step” edge when working HDC in rows?
Try using a chain-1 instead of chain-2 for your turning chain, or experiment with “chainless starting HDC” techniques. These create a much cleaner edge for projects like scarves and blankets.
What’s the best project for practicing HDC as a complete beginner?
A simple washcloth or dish scrubby is perfect—small enough to finish quickly but useful even if imperfect. Use cotton yarn in a light color so you can clearly see your stitches.
How do I know if I’m yarning over correctly for the HDC stitch?
You should have three loops on your hook before the final yarn over and pull through. If you only have two loops, you forget the initial yarn over before inserting your hook.
