How to Make a Half Double Crochet Stitch (Hdc)

20 Mar

What is the Half Double Crochet Stitch?

The half double crochet stitch, also known as the half treble in the UK, is the next stitch up from the single crochet stitch. It’s the third basic crochet stitch to learn before starting on your first pattern.

By the end of this blog post, you’ll know exactly how to make a half double crochet stitch and be ready to move to the next level.

Please note that I mainly refer to stitches in US terms with a mention of the UK terms for your reference. If you want to check which set of crochet terms you’re following, I’ve created an easy conversion chart from UK crochet terms to US terms for convenience.

A small sample of 5 rows and 15 stitches of half double crochet made in pastel teal yarn. The background is off white and there is a silver crochet hook attached to the working loop.

What Are the Abbreviations for this Stitch?

In most crochet patterns you will find a list of abbreviations before the pattern begins, telling you which abbreviations refer to which stitches. However, there is a standard that most patterns follow. In US terms, the half double is abbreviated with the letters hdc and in UK terms the half treble is referenced as htr.

Where to Begin the Half Double from a Foundation Chain?

When crocheting the half double crochet, each row should start with a chain 2. The chain 2 is the turning chain used to bring the yarn up to the correct height for the stitch.

With a foundation chain, make the chain as wide as you would like your project to be, then chain 2 and then begin working back across the foundation chain, starting from the 3rd chain from the hook, missing the last 2 chains you just made. My tutorial on YouTube makes this a lot clearer, if you’re unsure.

How to Begin the Next Row of Half Doubles

Once you have finished your first row of half doubles, turn your work around so the back is facing you. Then you want to begin the next row by chaining 2 again like before, to bring the yarn up to the correct height for the stitch, see the photo below for clarity. Then start your first half double of this row into the last half double of the previous row.

A photo of two rows of half treble stitches made in pastel teal yarn. It shows the chain to at the beginning for the next row and an arrow is pointing out where to make the first stitch for the next row. There is a silver crochet hook attached.

How to Make a Half Double Crochet

So, let’s get to it. How do we actually crochet the half double crochet stitch. It’s super simple and you’ll have it down in no time!

Also, if you’ve followed my learn to crochet series you will find these next set of instructions really easy. I’ve included a photo tutorial as well below so you can see each step together.

Start by yarning over.
Then insert your hook into the stitch. Under both loops unless stated otherwise in the pattern your are following.
Yarn over again and pull back through the stitch. You should have 3 loops on your hook.
Yarn over again and pull through all 3 loops.
That’s it! So easy. See the photo below for more clarity.

A 2 x 3 grid showing 6 images, one for each stage of how to make a half double crochet stitch. Each shows a small 2 row piece of crochet at each stage with a silver hook. There is grey text over each one describing what to do.

Watch the Video Tutorial

You can find my quick and easy video tutorial for the half double crochet on my YouTube Channel or watch it below.

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I really hope you found this tutorial useful. If you have questions don’t hesitate to get in touch or pop them in the comments section, I’m always happy to help.