Master the Half Double Crochet Stitch

Master the Half Double Crochet Stitch

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Table of Contents

Introduction

The half double crochet is a condensed version of the classic double crochet. The half double crochet is often denoted as HDC and is used for its stitch length that falls between that of a single and double crochet. 

If you're looking to expand your crochet knowledge beyond SC and DC, the HDC is the perfect next step. Follow along with me as we master the Half Double Crochet.

Materials

Yarn Type

The Half double crochet can be executed with any size and type of yarn. Just make sure to pay attention to the hook size recommendation on the label of the yarn!

Here are a few of my favorite yarns for HDC:  

Mandala Ombre Yarn

I Love This Yarn

Baby Bee Adore-A-Ball 

 

Hook Type

In order to complete our HDC you will need a crochet hook that you like and feel comfortable with, I think this comes down to your personnel preference and other factors ( grip size & intensity, yarn material, etc.), but here are a few I have tried and loved ! 

Susan Bates Hooks

Clover Amour

 

Additional Tools

Step by Step

Before starting a HDC you should make sure you understand how to use a DC. Here is a quick reminder of a Double Crochet

Step 1: Yarn Over

Step 2: Insert your hook into a stitch, Pull up a loop

Step 3: Yarn over and pull through 2 loops

Step 4: Yarn over and pull through 2 loops

Now, for a Half Double Crochet you’ll follow the same first two steps 

Step 1: Yarn Over

 

Step 2: Insert your hook into a stitch, Pull up a loop

 

Step 3 will be different than the DC

Step 3: Yarn over and pull through all three loops

Common Mistakes

As with any new skill, mastering the art of the half-double crochet comes with some challenges. However, the crochet crew has got you covered! Here are some common mistakes and tips to fix them.

Tension Troubles

One of the most challenging aspects of starting to crochet is having consistent tension. For HDC specifically this is important because of the compactness of the stitch, ensuring even tension throughout your stitching in a project will help to prevent mistakes. If you are struggling with your tension being too tight try using a larger crochet hook until you can master your grip. If the looseness of your tension is troubling you, I would encourage you to focus on your grip in your non-dominant hand (yarn holding hand) and try to keep the yarn tense as you go from stitch to stitch.

Skipping Stitches & Miscounting

The downfall of even the most experienced crocheters can be skipping a stitch and not realizing it until rows later(worse nightmare!!). If you are struggling with skipping stitches it may help to place a stitch marker at the end of your row and ensure you are counting the same number of stitches for each row. 

Exercises & Projects for Mastery

Practice Swatch: perfect for practicing the best tension for HDC!

First, make a chain of 20 stitches. Easy-peasy! Now, skip the first stitch and HDC into the second one from your hook. Keep on truckin' and HDC your way across the row, placing 19 more HDCs until you reach the end. Once there, chain 1 and turn your work around like a pro. Repeat this process, creating rows of HDCs until you've completed 20 rows in total.

Incorporating HDC into Simple Projects 

Simple HDC Dishcloth

Dishcloths are ideal to practice the HDC stitch. Using a durable 100% cotton yarn, create a custom dish cloth for your kitchen! The density of the HDC is ideal for scrubbing and wiping down surfaces. Check out the Next Steps section for some dishcloth pattern ideas.

 

Heart Pillow

Simple and cute home decor using the HDC ! Pattern by Mahum check out their link:

https://mahumcrochets.blogspot.com/2022/10/heart-cushion-cover-written-pattern.html

Scarf

Cute and stylish custom scarf? Yes please! Pattern by Looped and Knotted, check out their link: https://loopedandknotted.com/simple-half-double-crochet-scarf/

Conclusion

Throughout this guide, we've become masters of the half-double crochet! From simple dishcloths to adorable heart pillows for home decor, the HDC stitch is super versatile and a must-know for every crocheter's journey. As you keep practicing and using the HDC in your work, remember to be patient and kind to yourself - mastery never comes without a few hiccups!

Share your projects, thoughts, and questions in the comments below! Since this is my first blog post, feel free to give any helpful feedback or suggest other tutorials you'd be interested in.

Thank you so much for reading my very first blog post! If you have time, follow me on my socials to stay updated for more posts like this @ https://linktr.ee/jayscrochet. Welcome to the crochet crew, I'm thrilled to have you here!

 

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2 comments

So informative! Can’t wait to see other guides from you!!!!

Cat

This was so helpful! Can’t wait to learn more!

Gracie

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