Learning how to half double crochet adds a versatile stitch to your crochet skills. It sits between single crochet and double crochet in height, produces a distinctive texture, and builds fabric faster than the shorter single crochet stitch.

Half Double Crochet Basics

Skill level: Beginner
Terminology: US crochet terms
Abbreviation: hdc
UK equivalent: half treble crochet (htr)
Materials: Yarn, a suitable crochet hook, and a workpiece with a next stitch

Begin with one working loop on the hook. Maintain relaxed, even tension so the hook can pass smoothly through all the loops.

How to Half Double Crochet Step by Step

Before inserting the hook into the next stitch, yarn over.
Insert the hook into the next stitch.
Yarn over and pull the yarn through the stitch.
Check the hook. You should now have 3 loops on it.
Yarn over again, then pull through all 3 loops in one motion.

Checkpoint: One loop remains on the hook, and the half double crochet stitch is complete.

How Half Double Crochet Is Used

In amigurumi, hdc can bridge the height difference between single crochet and double crochet. This gradual height change is useful for shaping triangular sections and adding height to selected areas. The stitch also works well for crocheted clothing because it builds fabric efficiently while creating a texture different from single crochet.

Beyond amigurumi, half double crochet appears in blankets, cardigans, scarves, and beanies. Repeat the same five-step sequence wherever the pattern calls for an hdc.

Starting and Turning a Practice Row

Make a short foundation chain. Yarn over, insert the hook into the chain specified by your pattern, and complete the stitch. Turning-chain rules vary: some patterns count the turning chain as a stitch and others do not. Follow the stated rule, mark the first real stitch when needed, and count the row before turning.

Common Half Double Crochet Problems

If pulling through all three loops feels difficult, enlarge the working loops slightly instead of forcing the hook. Splitting yarn usually means the hook tip has entered a strand rather than the complete loop. Uneven edges usually come from missing the last stitch or accidentally working into a turning chain.

HDC in Rows, Rounds, and Amigurumi

The mechanics stay the same in flat rows and rounds, but placement follows the project. In amigurumi, hdc is often used locally to add height; do not add extra hdc stitches unless the pattern calls for them.

Visual guide

Use these images as placement checkpoints. Match the loop count and hook position before moving to the next step.

Step 2 in the How to Half Double Crochet: Complete Beginner Tutorial visual guide. — Visual checkpoint 2: compare the hook, working loop, and fabric position with the written instruction.

Step 3 in the How to Half Double Crochet: Complete Beginner Tutorial visual guide. — Visual checkpoint 3: compare the hook, working loop, and fabric position with the written instruction.

Step 4 in the How to Half Double Crochet: Complete Beginner Tutorial visual guide. — Visual checkpoint 4: compare the hook, working loop, and fabric position with the written instruction.

Step 5 in the How to Half Double Crochet: Complete Beginner Tutorial visual guide. — Visual checkpoint 5: compare the hook, working loop, and fabric position with the written instruction.

Step 6 in the How to Half Double Crochet: Complete Beginner Tutorial visual guide. — Visual checkpoint 6: compare the hook, working loop, and fabric position with the written instruction.