How To Half Double Crochet Stitch (HDC)

What Is A Half Double Crochet? (US)

The half-double crochet stitch is a stitch that is about halfway between single crochet and a double crochet stitch.

The half-double crochet is similar to a single crochet but has one extra loop on the hook.

In the US this stitch is known as half-double crochet and in the UK it is called half-treble crochet. 

And it is one of the first basic crochet stitches a beginner should learn.

It makes a dense fabric with few holes and is perfect for projects like baby blankets because fingers and toes won't get caught in it, pillows, warm winter scarves, hats, and jumpers.

Half Double Crochet Stitch

A half-double crochet stitch is very similar to a double crochet stitch, but it does have some differences.

The half double crochet stitch starts the same as the double crochet stitch with a yarn over and but instead of pulling through loops several times, the yarn is pulled through all three loops at once.

Here is how to make an HDC:

• Yarn over the hook and insert the hook from the front to the back of a designated stitch or space.
• Then yarn over the hook to pick up a loop as you pull the hook back through the designated stitch or space. There will be three loops on the hook.
• Next, yarn over the hook to pick up another loop as you draw the hook back through all three loops on the hook to leave one loop on the hook.

When starting a new round or row you will need to make two chain stitches, this is called a turning chain, to start the new round or row. 

This will ensure that the start is an even height to the half-double crochet stitches.

Does The Turning Chain Count As A Stitch?

Depending on the pattern a turning chain may or may not be counted as a stitch.

Half Double Crochet Stitch - Step-by-step

Step 1 - Yarn over (wrap the yarn around your hook from back to front).

Step 2 - Insert the hook into the third chain from the hook (or the stitch you want to work into).

Step 3 - Yarn over again and draw the yarn through the chain (or stitch).

Step 4 - You should now have three loops on your hook. 

Step 5 - Yarn over again and draw the yarn through all three loops.

Step 6 - Now you should have one loop on the hook. 

That's it! You've made a half-double crochet stitch. Repeat steps 1-6 to make more stitches.

When you come to the end of the row, chain 2 (this may or may not be counted as an HDC in a pattern), turn your work and continue on with the pattern.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

1. Yarning over incorrectly - One of the most common mistakes beginners make is yarning over incorrectly. Make sure to yarn over from back to front, otherwise, you'll end up with twisted stitches.
2. Not pulling the yarn through all three loops - Another common mistake is not pulling the yarn through all three loops on your hook. Make sure to yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete the stitch.
3. Forgetting to make a turning chain - When starting a new row, it's important to make a turning chain. This helps to keep your work straight and prevents it from curling up.
4. Tension problems - Maintaining consistent tension throughout your work can be a challenge. Practice keeping a relaxed grip on your hook and yarn, and try not to pull too tightly or too loosely.
5. Skipping stitches - It's important to make sure you're inserting your hook into the correct stitch. Skipping stitches can result in uneven edges and a wonky project.
6. Working too tightly or too loosely - Half double crochet stitches can vary in size depending on how tightly or loosely you work. Try to maintain consistent tension throughout your work for a more polished look.
7. Not counting stitches - Counting your stitches as you go is crucial for making sure your work stays even and straight. It can be helpful to use stitch markers or a row counter to keep track.

Tips For Perfecting The Half Double Crochet Stitch

• Practice makes perfect! The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with the stitch.
• Make sure you are consistent with your tension. This will help to create even and consistent stitches.
• Take your time and don't rush.
• Count your stitches as you go. This will ensure that your work stays even and straight.

Common Uses For Half Double Crochet

Common Uses for Half Double Crochet 

The half double crochet stitch can be used in various crochet projects such as: 

• Warm scarves and hats that are perfect for winter wear.
• It is perfect for making warm and cozy blankets and throws because this stitch creates a slightly more textured fabric than single crochet, making it perfect for snuggling up on the couch.
• It can also be used to make sturdy and durable bags and purses.

More Crochet Basics

• How to do a crochet slip knot
• How to crochet a chain stitch
• How to crochet a slip stitch
• How to single crochet
• How to double crochet
• How to crochet a treble stitch

Easy Crochet Patterns

• Crochet strawberry keychain
• Small crochet drawstring pouch
• Reusable crochet face scrubbies
• Crochet granny heart coaster
• 8 petal crochet flower coasters
• Small crochet basket pattern with handles
• Moss stitch crochet dishcloth
• Suzette crochet washcloth
• Ruffle crochet scrunchies
• Crochet flower bookmark
• Sunflower crochet bookmark
• Crochet pencil bookmark

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