How to Do the Half Double Crochet Stitch
Learn How to Do the Half Double Crochet Stitch
The half double crochet stitch (HDC) is a perfect “in-between” stitch — taller than a single crochet, shorter than a double crochet, and beautifully dense without feeling stiff.
It’s one of the core stitches you’ll use again and again in blankets, garments, accessories, and more. In this tutorial, Sammi from Yarn Over Hook will walk you through how to make the half double crochet step-by-step so you can add it confidently to your projects.
For a full Half Double Crochet Stitch walkthrough, keep scrolling to the step-by-step tutorial.
What Is the Half Double Crochet Stitch?
The half double crochet (HDC) is a basic crochet stitch that sits between the single crochet and the double crochet in height.
It’s worked by yarning over before you insert your hook (like a double crochet), but then pulling through all three loops at once (unlike a double crochet, which pulls through two at a time).
The result is a stitch that is:
- Taller than a single crochet
- Shorter than a double crochet
- Dense and cozy, with a smooth, even texture
How to Do a Half Double Crochet Stitch: Step-by-Step
These instructions use US crochet terms and assume you already have a foundation chain or previous row of stitches to work into.
Step 1 – Yarn Over First
Before you insert your hook into the stitch, yarn over once.
You’ll now have:
- Your original loop on the hook
- The yarn-over strand
Think of this yarn-over as your “ready to work” position for the half double crochet.
Step 2 – Insert Your Hook Into the Stitch
Insert your hook into the next stitch of the previous row, right under the “V” at the top of the stitch.
On your hook you now have:
- The loop you started with
- The yarn-over
- The “V” of the stitch you’re working into
Step 3 – Yarn Over and Pull Up a Loop
Yarn over again and pull the yarn through that stitch only (through the V).
You should now have three loops on your hook:
- The original loop
- The yarn-over
- The new loop you just pulled up
Step 4 – Yarn Over and Pull Through All Three Loops
- Yarn over one more time.
- Pull the yarn through all three loops on your hook in one motion.
- This completes one half double crochet stitch.
- You’ll be back to one loop on your hook, ready to start the next stitch.
Step 5 – Repeat Across the Row
Repeat the same steps into each stitch across your row:
- Yarn over
- Insert your hook into the next stitch
- Yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on the hook)
- Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops
As you work, you’ll see a smooth, slightly taller fabric forming — this is the classic half double crochet texture.
Watch the Step-by-Step Half Double Crochet Stitch Tutorial
Want to see each step in slow, clear detail? In this video, Sammi from Yarn Over Hook talks you through every part of the half double crochet.
Half Double Crochet Stitch Tips & Common Mistakes
- “My HDCs are too tight.”
- Try loosening your tension slightly.
- Make sure you’re not pulling the yarn too tightly when you yarn over.
- “I don’t see the ‘V’ to insert my hook under.”
- Turn your work slightly toward you so you can see the top two loops of each stitch.
- Each stitch should look like a small V along the top edge.
- “My edges look uneven.”
- Be sure you’re working into the first and last stitch of every row.
- Count your stitches occasionally to keep the same number across each row.
Watch on YouTube → Full-Video
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About Your Crochet Instructor
Hi, I’m Sammi, one of the makers behind Yarn Over Hook. I love helping crocheters feel more confident with the stitches and techniques that unlock everything from amigurumi to heirloom blankets.
On our YouTube channel and here on YarnOverHook.com, I share clear, friendly tutorials designed to meet you exactly where you are — whether this is your very first magic ring or your hundredth amigurumi. 💛
