The half double crochet (hdc) is the cozy middle child of crochet stitches — taller than a single crochet but shorter than a double crochet. It works up quickly and creates a soft, slightly dense fabric with a lovely little bump on the back.
It is a beginner-friendly favorite for blankets, scarves, hats, and washcloths. If you know how to single crochet, the hdc is an easy and satisfying next step.
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Before You Begin
- This tutorial uses US crochet terminology
- I recommend a stitch marker in the first and last stitch of each row to keep your count
- I prefer to work in the back bumps of the foundation chain for a cleaner edge
- This post contains affiliate links — see the disclaimer at the top of this page
- If your stitches feel tight, go up a hook size
What You’ll Need
Hook and Notions
Yarn
- Any weight — worsted weight (#4) shown in tutorial for clarity
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- Ch = chain
- Hdc = half double crochet
- St(s) = stitch(es)
- YO = yarn over
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner
Gauge
Not important for this tutorial
Stitch Multiple
Any number of stitches
Foundation Chain
Add 1 to your desired stitch count
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between single, half double, and double crochet?
It is all about height. Single crochet is the shortest, double crochet is the tallest, and the half double sits right in between — giving you a nice balance of speed and a soft, sturdy fabric.
Is half double crochet beginner friendly?
Yes! If you can single crochet, you can half double crochet. The only new part is that you yarn over BEFORE inserting your hook.
What can I make with it?
Hdc is wonderful for blankets, scarves, cowls, hats, and washcloths — anywhere you want a soft, cozy fabric that works up fast.
Why does hdc have a bump on the back?
That is the “third loop” — totally normal, and it is actually a fun place to crochet into for a ribbed look later on!
Half Double Crochet Instructions
Before you begin, make a slip knot and place it on your hook.
To make the half double crochet:
- Yarn over first, then insert your hook into the stitch
- Yarn over again and pull up a loop — you now have 3 loops on your hook
- Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops — half double crochet complete!
Foundation: Chain 21 (for a 20-stitch swatch)
Row 1 (RS): Hdc in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. Turn. (20 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch), hdc in the first st and in each st across. Turn. (20 sts)
Repeat Row 2 for the length of your project.
You did it! You learned the Half Double Crochet!
You did it — you learned the half double crochet! This soft, speedy stitch is a favorite for cozy projects, and it will quickly become one of your go-to stitches.
What You’ll Love About the Half Double Crochet
- Taller than a single crochet, so projects work up faster
- Creates a soft, cozy, slightly dense fabric
- Beginner friendly — just one small change from single crochet
- Perfect for blankets, hats, scarves, and cowls
- Works beautifully in any yarn weight
Video Tutorial
Prefer to watch? Follow along with me in the step-by-step video tutorial below.
▶ Watch this tutorial on YouTube
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Common Beginner Mistakes
- Forgetting to yarn over BEFORE inserting your hook
- Working too tightly — go up a hook size if needed
- Losing count at the ends of rows
- Getting confused by the turning chain — here it does not count as a stitch
Practice Before Moving On
- Work several rows until the rhythm feels natural
- Count your stitches at the end of every row
- Notice the little bump (third loop) on the back of each row
Put This Stitch to Work
Ready to make something? Here is a beginner-friendly pattern that uses the half double crochet:
- Flutterby Baby Blanket — a soft, beginner-friendly blanket, perfect for baby showers
- How to Extended Single Crochet — another lovely textured stitch to try next
Engage With Us!
We would love to see how the half double crochet is working up for you! Share your progress:
- Instagram & Facebook: Tag @AmericanCrochet and use #ACMakers
- Pinterest: Save this tutorial so you can always find it again!
Looking Ahead
Now that you have the half double crochet, keep going with the Extended Single Crochet or put it to work in the Flutterby Baby Blanket.
Helpful Resources
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Keep Learning
Ready to explore more techniques? Head back to the library: → Crochet Techniques & Stitch Library
Or start from the beginning with Crochet Fundamentals: → Crochet Fundamentals
