How Do You Half Double Crochet? Expert 2025 Answers

Ever stared at a ball of yarn and a crochet hook, wondering why your half double crochet (HDC) stitches look more like a tangled mess than a cozy scarf? You’re not alone—mastering HDC can feel like solving a puzzle for beginners. But here’s the good news: this versatile stitch is easier than it seems, and it’s the key to creating everything from snuggly blankets to stylish hats. In this 2025 expert guide, we’ll walk you through how do you half double crochet, tackle common pitfalls, and share practical tips to make your projects shine.

What Is a Half Double Crochet?

The half double crochet (HDC) is a foundational crochet stitch that sits between the single crochet (SC) and double crochet (DC) in height. It creates a fabric that’s denser than a double crochet but softer than a single crochet, offering a perfect balance of warmth and drape. According to the Craft Yarn Council, HDC is one of the six core stitches every crocheter should know. Whether you’re crafting a scarf or a plush toy, this stitch is your go-to for versatility. Curious for more details? Check out our guide on what is a half double crochet.

Step-by-Step Guide to Half Double Crochet

Let’s break down how to do a half double crochet with clear, beginner-friendly steps:

1. Yarn Over (YO): Wrap the yarn over your hook from back to front.
2. Insert Hook: Slide the hook into the next stitch or chain space.
3. Yarn Over Again: Wrap the yarn over the hook once more.
4. Pull Through: Pull the yarn through the stitch, leaving three loops on your hook.
5. Yarn Over: Wrap the yarn over the hook again.
6. Pull Through All Loops: Pull the yarn through all three loops to complete one HDC.

Repeat these steps for each stitch in your row or round. For a visual walkthrough, visit our detailed tutorial on how to crochet a half double crochet.

Crocheting HDC in Rows

HDC in rows is ideal for flat projects like scarves or blankets. Here’s how to do it:

1. Foundation Chain:

• Chain any number of stitches based on your project (try 15 for practice).
• Skip the first two chains from the hook (these often count as the first HDC).
• Work your first HDC into the third chain from the hook.
• Continue HDC in each chain across the row.

1. Turning Chain:

• At the row’s end, chain 2 to turn (this may count as the first HDC of the next row, depending on the pattern).
• Turn your work, skip the first HDC of the previous row, and work your first HDC into the next stitch.

1. Subsequent Rows:

• Repeat the turning chain and HDC steps, ensuring you work into the top of the turning chain from the previous row for a neat edge.

If your pattern specifies the turning chain doesn’t count as a stitch, work your first HDC into the first stitch of the row. For more tips, see how do you crochet a half double crochet.

Crocheting HDC in the Round

HDC in the round is perfect for hats, bags, or amigurumi. Here’s the process:

1. Starting Round:

• Begin with a magic ring or chain 2, then work 8 HDC into the first chain.
• Join with a slip stitch to the first HDC to form a circle.

1. Increasing Rounds:

• To keep the circle flat, increase by a fixed number of stitches per round (typically 8 for HDC).
• Round 2: Work 2 HDC in each stitch (16 stitches total).
• Round 3: 1 HDC, 2 HDC in next stitch, repeat around (24 stitches).

1. Seamless Circles:

• For a seamless look, work in a continuous spiral without joining rounds.
• Use a stitch marker to track the start of each round.

Learn more about seamless circles at foundation half double crochet.

Increasing and Decreasing in HDC

Increasing:

Work two HDC into the same stitch to add one stitch, useful for widening flat projects or expanding circles.

Decreasing (HDC2TOG):

To decrease, use the “half double crochet two together” (hdc2tog) technique:

1. Yarn over, insert hook into the next stitch, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).
2. Yarn over, insert hook into the next stitch, pull up a loop (5 loops on hook).
3. Yarn over, pull through all 5 loops to complete the decrease.

For a less bulky decrease:

1. Yarn over, insert hook into the next stitch, pull up a loop (3 loops).
2. Insert hook into the next stitch, pull up a loop (4 loops).
3. Yarn over, pull through all 4 loops.

Both methods work well—test them to find your preference. Explore more at half double crochet decrease.

Tips for Beginners

Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• Choose the Right Tools: Opt for medium-weight yarn and a 5.5mm (I/9) hook to see stitches clearly. Our best beginner crochet kit is a great starting point.
• Maintain Consistent Tension: Avoid pulling yarn too tight or leaving it too loose for even stitches.
• Count Your Stitches: Check stitch counts regularly to avoid accidental increases or decreases.
• Use Stitch Markers: Essential for tracking rounds in circular projects.
• Watch Tutorials: Visual guides can clarify tricky steps. Find them at crochet for beginners kit.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Avoid these beginner pitfalls:

1. Skipping the Yarn Over: Always yarn over before inserting the hook, or your stitch won’t form correctly.
2. Wrong Loop Insertion: Unless specified, insert the hook under both top loops of the stitch.
3. Turning Chain Confusion: Confirm whether the turning chain counts as a stitch to maintain correct stitch counts.
4. Tight Stitches: If stitches are too tight, relax your tension or try a larger hook.
5. Skipping Stitches: Double-check each stitch to avoid missing any.

HDC Variations for Creative Projects

Spice up your projects with these HDC variations:

• Back Loop Only (BLO): Work into the back loop only for a ribbed, knit-like texture, perfect for hat brims. Learn more at half double stitch crochet.
• Third Loop HDC: Work into the third loop (the horizontal bar behind the stitch) for a woven effect, ideal for scarves.
• Herringbone HDC: A unique twist for added texture, explored in herringbone half double crochet.

Beginner-Friendly HDC Projects

Once you’ve got the hang of HDC, try these projects:

Find patterns for these projects at best crochet kits.

Why Choose Our Crochet Kits?

Our best crochet kit for beginners includes premium hooks, soft yarns, and stitch markers tailored for new crocheters. Ready to start? Visit our products to find the perfect kit. Have questions? Contact us for personalized support.

Keep Crocheting with Confidence

The half double crochet is your ticket to creating beautiful, functional projects with ease. From cozy blankets to trendy accessories, this stitch opens up endless possibilities. Practice these steps, experiment with variations, and let your creativity soar. What’s the first HDC project you’ll tackle? Share your thoughts and let’s keep the conversation going!

References:

• Craft Yarn Council Crochet Abbreviations
• The Woobles HDC Tutorial
• Sarah Maker HDC Guide
• The Spruce Crafts HDC Tutorial
• Dummies HDC Steps
• EyeLoveKnots HDC Photo Tutorial