How to Half Double Crochet: A Complete Beginner's Guide
Taller than a single crochet, softer than a double — the half double crochet is the warm, squishy middle child of crochet, and it's wonderfully easy to learn.
The half double crochet (US hdc) sits perfectly between the short, dense single crochet and the tall, airy double crochet. It has a lovely squishy texture that makes it a favourite for beanies, baby blankets, cowls and cardigans — warm and thick, but quicker to work than single crochet. The motion is just one small twist on the double crochet: you start with a yarn over, but instead of closing the stitch in two steps, you pull through all three loops at once.
Before you start
Half double crochet is the natural next step after the two basics, so a little prior practice makes it instant.
It helps to know the chain and to have tried single crochet; if you already know double crochet, the hdc will feel familiar — it's the same start with a one-step finish. Use a smooth worsted yarn and a matching hook so the stitch is easy to read.
How to half double crochet, step by step
Make a foundation chain of about 15, then work your first row:
1. Yarn over first. Wrap the yarn over your hook before inserting. 2. Insert the hook. Skip the first two chains (they count as your first hdc) and insert into the third chain from the hook. 3. Yarn over and pull up a loop. You now have three loops on the hook. 4. Yarn over and pull through all three. In one smooth motion, draw the yarn through all three loops. That's one half double crochet. Repeat into each chain across.
The whole stitch in a phrase: yarn over, insert, pull up, then through all three. That single-step finish is what gives the hdc its plump, cosy look.
The turning chain & the "third loop"
At the end of a row, chain 2 and turn. Patterns vary on whether that chain-2 counts as a stitch, so follow your pattern — many modern designers say it does not count, which keeps edges neat. One lovely quirk of the hdc is the "third loop": a horizontal bar that sits behind the usual two top loops. Working into it creates a beautiful knit-like ridge, popular for hats and the "camel stitch" look. As always, count your stitches each row while you learn.
"If single crochet is sturdy and double crochet is speedy, half double is just cosy. It's the stitch I reach for when I want something to feel like a hug."— Ava, MrsCrochetWorld
Where the half double shines
Its warmth and squish make hdc perfect for wearables and snuggly makes — practise it on a beginner project you'll actually use.
Cosy bags & totes
BeginnerThe dense, squishy hdc fabric is lovely for sturdy bags. Browse our easy beginner patterns to put it to work.
Practise for free
Free downloadWarm up your stitches risk-free with a free pattern before starting a bigger wearable.
Build your skills
Step upOnce hdc feels natural, mix it with other stitches in our beginner collection for richer textures.
The stitch family, by height
Half double crochet is the cosy middle — once you have it, you've got the whole core set.
Half double
One yarn over, pull through all three. You're here — cosy & squishy.
Half double crochet tips
- Always yarn over before inserting the hook — skip it and you've made a single crochet.
- Pull through all three loops in one motion — that one-step close is the whole trick.
- Check whether your turning chain counts — patterns differ; follow yours to keep edges straight.
- Try the "third loop" for a gorgeous knit-like ridge, ideal for beanie brims.
- Keep tension relaxed — hdc can feel tight because of the three-loop close; an easy grip keeps it soft.
- Count every row while learning so a stray stitch never creeps in.
Make something cosy today 🧶
Start with a free, beginner-friendly pattern and put your new stitch to work — instant download, clear photos, US terms.
Get a free pattern Shop beginner patternsFrequently asked questions
How do you half double crochet for beginners?
Yarn over first, insert your hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop so you have three loops on the hook, then yarn over and pull through all three loops at once. That makes one half double crochet.
What does hdc mean in a crochet pattern?
"hdc" is the US abbreviation for half double crochet, the stitch that sits between single and double crochet in height. (In UK terms it's called "htr", half treble.)
What's the difference between half double and double crochet?
Both start with a yarn over, but a half double is closed by pulling through all three loops at once, making it shorter and denser. A double crochet is closed in two steps, making it taller and more open.
Does the turning chain count as a stitch in half double crochet?
It depends on the pattern. The chain-2 turning chain sometimes counts and sometimes doesn't — many modern designers say it does not, which keeps edges neat. Always follow your specific pattern.
What is the "third loop" in half double crochet?
It's a horizontal bar that sits behind the two normal top loops. Working into it creates a knit-like ridge, often used for hat brims and the camel-stitch look.
Is half double crochet good for beginners?
Yes — it's easy to learn, works up faster than single crochet, and makes a warm, squishy fabric that's great for beanies, blankets and cowls.
What can I make with half double crochet?
Beanies, cowls, baby blankets, scarves, bags and cardigans. Its cosy thickness makes it especially popular for warm wearables.
Why does my half double crochet look tight?
The three-loop close can tempt you to pull hard. Relax your tension and keep your loops a touch looser, and the fabric will stay soft and squishy.
