Half double crochet is a beautiful crochet stitch; it’s simple but versatile. It is one of the basic crochet stitches that a beginner should master when learning how to crochet. This guide shows you how to crochet the HDC stitch and tips for working with half double crochet. Beginners who have already mastered single crochet and double crochet would do well to try this stitch next.
As the name suggests, HDC is taller than single crochet but shorter than double crochet. It is a foundational crochet stitch and worked similarly to those two basic stitches. A slight difference creates a unique third loop and the smaller height.
Choosing Yarn and a Crochet Hook
The half double crochet stitch shows up in all different types of projects, so you can use any yarn and any crochet hook to work on HDC. If you are working with a crochet pattern, the pattern will tell you the exact materials needed.
If you aren’t working from a pattern, choose your yarn then look at the yarn label to find out what hook size you need for that yarn. Beginners may want to try a worsted weight yarn and size H crochet hook as a good starting point.
Tip: Smooth, worsted weight yarn in a light color is a good choice for learning new crochet stitches.