What is Half Double Crochet
Half double crochet (abbreviated hdc) is a crochet stitch that sits perfectly between single crochet and double crochet in terms of height and texture. It's taller and more airy than single crochet, but denser and more solid than double crochet. This makes it exceptionally versatile — perfect for hats, scarves, blankets, sweaters, and bags.
In international patterns, it's marked with the abbreviation hdc. In British terminology, it's sometimes called half treble crochet (htr). When reading patterns, always check whether they use American or British terminology — stitch names differ.
How to Crochet Half Double Crochet — Instructions
Step 1: Yarn Over
Wrap the yarn around the hook from front to back (yarn over). You now have 2 loops on your hook — the original loop and the newly wrapped yarn.
Step 2: Insert Hook into Stitch
Insert the hook into the next stitch in the row (or into the chain space of the foundation chain). When working into the foundation chain, the first half double crochet is worked into the third chain from the hook.
Step 3: Pull Through a Loop
Catch the yarn and pull it through the stitch. You now have 3 loops on your hook.
Step 4: Pull Through All Three
Catch the yarn and pull it through all three loops at once. One loop remains on the hook. Your half double crochet is complete.
Difference Between Single, Half Double, and Double Crochet
| Feature | Single Crochet (sc) | Half Double Crochet (hdc) | Double Crochet (dc) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yarn overs before inserting | None | 1× | 1× |
| Loops on hook | 2 | 3 (pulled through at once) | 3 (pulled through two at a time) |
| Stitch height | Low | Medium | Tall |
| Turning chain | 1 chain | 2 chains | 3 chains |
| Texture | Dense, solid | Medium density | Airy, flexible |
Where Half Double Crochet is Used
Half double crochet is popular for projects where you want a good balance between density and speed of work. You'll most commonly find it in these projects:
Hats and headbands — half double crochet creates a flexible, warm texture that fits well on the head. It's an ideal choice for classic hats crocheted from the top in the round.
Blankets and throws — work progresses faster than with single crochet, but the result is still sufficiently dense and warm. Half double crochet is an excellent choice for baby blankets.
Scarves and cowls — the texture is soft and pleasant to touch, more flowing than single crochet.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Forgotten yarn over — if you forget to yarn over before inserting the hook, you'll make a single crochet instead of half double crochet. The result will be shorter and denser. Check that you have 2 loops on your hook before inserting into the stitch.
Uneven edges — at the beginning of each row, chain 2 as a replacement for the first half double crochet. At the end of the row, don't forget to work into the last stitch — it's often overlooked because it's right at the edge.
Too tight or loose stitches — maintain even yarn tension. If stitches are too tight, try a larger hook. If they're too loose, go down half a hook size.
Half Double Crochet Variations
Half double crochet in back loop only (hdc BLO) — you work into only the back loop of the stitch instead of both loops. This creates a pronounced ribbed texture, similar to knitting. A popular technique for headbands and cuffs.
Half double crochet in front loop only (hdc FLO) — the opposite of BLO, working into the front loop only. Combining rows of BLO and FLO creates interesting textural patterns.
Third loop of half double crochet — half double crochet is unique in creating a characteristic third loop on top of the stitch when worked. Crocheting into this third loop gives you a texture very similar to knitting — a popular technique for hats and sweaters.
