How to Half Double Crochet: Easy & Free Tutorial

The half double crochet stitch is one of the foundational stitches that every beginner should master. Many crochet patterns rely on this basic stitch, and it is a fairly easy and quick stitch to learn. Just follow this step-by-step tutorial or watch the video to help you grow your crochet skills!

I have a confession to make. I used to hate using the half double crochet stitch. After learning how to single crochet and double crochet, it felt difficult to get the right tension needed to complete this stitch. However, after many years of crocheting, I have really come to love using the half double crochet, and especially all of the more advanced stitches that use it as a foundational piece to create lovely textures.

Now, if you are a complete beginner, I wouldn’t start with learning the half double crochet stitch first. You will want to start off with the single crochet and then double crochet stitches to get you started with the basics (you can learn how to do both here!). As soon as you’ve masted these two stitches though, feel free to give this stitch tutorial a try! In my opinion, it’s the next stitch beginners should learn.

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Tips for learning to half double crochet:

There are a few things you need to know before giving the half double crochet a try:

-Master the single crochet and double crochet stitches first. It will make your life easier.

-Tension is key for this stitch. Hold the yarn too tight, and it can be difficult to pull the yarn through the loops. Too loose, and it can be hard to stay consistent.

-When practicing this or any new stitch, try to use a middle weight yarn and medium sized hook. Too big or small in either can make for some challenging learning.

-If you are a complete newbie, check out my tutorial for single crochet, double crochet, chaining, and the basic words every crocheter should know. But be sure to come back to this post later!

-Not sure what supplies you might need? Check out my post here on what supplies beginner crocheters need!

How to half double crochet:

The half double crochet stitch is a very common stitch that is used in a plethora of patterns, and it uses only a few steps to complete:

1. Chain your desired length for your crochet project, and then chain 1 extra.
2. Yarn over, and then insert your hook into the second chain from the hook.
3. Yarn over again, and pull through the chain. You should have three loops on the hook.
4. Yarn over a final time, and pull through all three loops. You have completed your first half double crochet stitch! Continue with these steps along each of your chains.
5. To start the second row of your project, you will need to chain 1 after your final stitch, turn your project to the opposite side, and then continue with your half double crochet stitches.

Half Double Crochet Video Tutorial:

What can you make with the half double crochet stitch?

Half double crochet stitch is super common among crocheters and will often be used for all kinds of projects. Personally, some of my favorite beginner projects using this stitch are:

-Washcloths or dishcloths

-Blankets

-Coasters

-Hot pads

Some of these will require some time, but they are a great way to get started using the half double crochet stitch!

Once you feel a bit more confident though, you can start using the half double crochet on more complicated projects, such as:

-Totes

-Headbands

-Beanies

-Garments

Or really anything you feel like! That’s one of the beautiful things about learning a new stitch. Once you have it mastered, you can make up your own ways to use it as much as you want!

Where do you go from here?

Personally, when I started learning, I loved using new stitches in blankets or other projects that allowed me to practice the new stitch as much as possible. So that is my advice to you! Start by practicing this stitch until it feels comfortable and easy to accomplish. Remember, mastering a new stitch means practicing over several days or more, not just sitting and practicing for a long time all at once (even if that is a lot of fun!). Practicing over a period of time will help you build your muscle memory and thereby help your tension become more consistent.

Once you feel confident with this stitch, please be on the lookout for the next tutorial coming out soon: the slip stitch! This will help you continue your progress as a crocheter!

Can’t wait to share with you more again later this week! Let me know if these tutorials are helpful and show me what you are working on in the comments or through my social media!