The half double crochet decrease (hdc2tog) is an essential crochet technique used to combine two stitches into one, helping you shape your projects smoothly and evenly.
In this step-by-step tutorial, you'll learn exactly how to crochet hdc2tog, when to use it, and how it compares to other crochet decrease stitches.
Table of contents
- What is HDC2TOG In Crochet?
- How to Half Double Crochet Decrease (Quick Steps)
- Watch HDC2TOG In Action
- When To Use HDC2TOG
- HDC2TOG vs Other Crochet Decreases
- Common Mistakes (and Fixes)
- Beginner Tips
- Related Crochet Tutorials
- HDC2tog FAQs
- What to Learn Next
- Mastering Crochet Decreases with HDC
- Learn To Crochet
- Stay Connected
- Comments
What is HDC2TOG In Crochet?
The hdc2tog (half double crochet two together) is a decrease stitch that combines two half double crochet stitches into one.
It is used to:
- Shape crochet projects
- Reduce stitch count
- Create curves and structure
How to Half Double Crochet Decrease (Quick Steps)
- 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, pull through all loops
- That's one hdc2tog completed
Watch HDC2TOG In Action
Learn how to make a half double crochet decrease in the video below.
When To Use HDC2TOG
Use hdc2tog when you need to:
- Shape garments (sleeves, waistlines)
- Taper hats and beanies
- Reduce stitch count in patterns
- Create smooth curves in crochet projects
It's especially useful in patterns that use half double crochet stitches
HDC2TOG vs Other Crochet Decreases
HDC2tog:
- Medium-height decrease
- Balanced texture
- Works well in HDC patterns
SC2tog stitch:
- Shorter stitch
- Dense fabric
- Used in tighter projects
Learn more about single crochet 2 together.
DC2tog stitch:
- Taller stitch
- More open fabric
- Used in garments and blankets
Learn more about double crochet 2 together.
Choose your decrease based on the stitch used in your pattern.
TC2tog stitch:
- Taller decrease stitch
- Creates shaping while maintaining height
- Produces a more open, airy fabric
- Used in shawls, garments, lace, and lightweight blankets
Learn more about treble crochet decrease.
Common Mistakes (and Fixes)
- Completing stitches too early - Do not finish the first stitch before starting the second
- Tight tension - Keep loops loose to pull through all 5 loops easily
- Miscounting stitches - Remember: hdc2tog counts as one stitch
- Skipping stitches accidentally - Always insert into the correct next stitch
Beginner Tips
- Practice slowly before increasing speed
- Use stitch markers when decreasing
- Keep your yarn tension even
- Work with light yarn for better visibility
Related Crochet Tutorials
Build your skills further:
HDC2tog FAQs
It means half double crochet two stitches together to form one decrease stitch.
Yes - it's easy to learn once you understand the half double crochet stitch.
Yes, it counts as a single stitch in your pattern.
Common causes:
- tight tension
- incorrect stitch placement
- pulling through loops unevenly
What to Learn Next
Once you've mastered hdc2tog, try:
- invisible decrease (for smoother shaping)
- double crochet 2 cluster stitch (for texture)
- reverse single crochet (for finishing edges)
Mastering Crochet Decreases with HDC
The hdc2tog stitch is a key technique for shaping crochet projects while maintaining a balanced, professional look.
By mastering this stitch, you'll be able to confidently create garments, accessories, and structured crochet designs with ease.
Learn To Crochet
If you are new to crochet and would like to learn more. You might like these:
- Basic crochet stitches for beginners
- How to crochet for beginners
- Crochet terms and abbreviations
- How to read a crochet pattern for beginners
- How to read a yarn label
- How to hold yarn when crocheting
Stay Connected
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