The half double crochet stitch is a popular one, and has a distinct look to it when compared to other crochet stitches. Learn to make it correctly.
Characteristics of the Half Double Crochet Stitch
The height of the “half double” is between a single crochet (1 stitch tall) and a double crochet (three stitches tall); it is exactly as wide. When the stitch is complete, it resembles a double chain using three strands of yarn. It is unique looking and is stretchier than other stitches because of its “extra” yarn over. It is two stitches tall.
Making the Half Double Crochet
The half double (hdc) like all stitches in crochet, is comprised of a few steps; each step is essential if the hdc is to be made correctly.
Figure 1 illustrates a foundation chain, into which a hdc stitch is about to be made. While holding the foundation chain with the crochet hook in the last loop, complete a yarn over. Insert the hook into the third loop from the hook; it’s important to slip the crochet hook under the two beams of the loop, not just one.
Yarn-over again. Pull this YO (yarn-over) through the third loop, again taking care that it passes under two beams of the loop. The hook should look just like Figure 1. Three loops should be on the hook.
The two loops that were passed count as the first hdc because a hdc has a height of 2 stitches; in other words, those loops are making up the first hdc stitch in the coming row. That first stitch enters the count in a pattern just like any other hdc. It takes the place of one hdc.
Next, make one more yarn-over, as shown in Figure 2. Pull through all three loops at once. One hdc stitch has been made, as illustrated in Figure 3.
Looking Closely at the Half Double Crochet
Please take a moment to examine Figure 3. To the far right, there are the two loops that were skipped; those skipped loops are equal to a half double crochet. Next to that is the hdc that was just finished. Notice how they both are equal in height.
Practicing the Half Double Crochet
Patterns typically call for the hdc when the designer is looking to use a stitch that does not look like all other crochet stitches. Take a few minutes to make a foundation row, and then to make a few rows of half double crochets. Practice making the hdc until completely comfortable with it. Get to know the hdc.
Related Articles: The Single Crochet Stitch, The Double Crochet Stitch, The Triple Crochet Stitch, The Crochet Foundation Chain, and The Slipknot.
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