How to Half Double Crochet (hdc) for Beginners

The half double crochet, written as hdc in crochet patterns, is a soft and simple stitch.

It is taller than a single crochet, but shorter than a double crochet. This makes it useful for soft details, gentle texture, and small crochet shapes.

In Little Stitch Fox patterns, stitches like this help create cozy baby blanket details and sweet woodland appliqués.

What You Need

• Yarn
• Crochet hook
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends

You will also need a short row of stitches or a practice chain to work into.

Step 1: Chain Two and Turn

If you are at the end of a row, turn your work.

Then make 2 chain stitches.

This gives your row enough height for the half double crochet stitch.

Step 2: Yarn Over

Before inserting your hook, wrap the yarn over your hook once.

You should now have two loops on your hook.

Step 3: Insert Your Hook Into the Stitch

Find the next stitch.

Look for the little V-shape at the top.

Insert your hook under both strands of the V.

Step 4: Yarn Over and Pull Up a Loop

Yarn over again.

Pull the yarn back through the stitch.

You should now have three loops on your hook.

Step 5: Yarn Over and Pull Through All Three Loops

Yarn over one more time.

Pull the yarn through all three loops on your hook.

You have now made one half double crochet stitch.

Step 6: Keep Working Across the Row

Repeat the same steps across the row:

Yarn over.
Insert hook into the next stitch.
Yarn over and pull up a loop.
Yarn over and pull through all three loops.

Keep going until you reach the end of the row.

What Does “hdc” Mean in a Pattern?

In crochet patterns, hdc means half double crochet.

For example: hdc 10 means: make 10 half double crochet stitches.

You may see hdc in patterns when a softer or slightly taller stitch is needed.

Beginner Tip

If your hook gets stuck while pulling through all three loops, gently pull down on your work.

This gives the loops a little more space and makes it easier for the hook to pass through.

Try to keep your tension relaxed and even.

Final Thoughts

Half double crochet is a lovely stitch to learn after single crochet.

It is soft, simple, and useful for adding gentle shape and texture to crochet projects.

The rhythm is easy to remember:

Yarn over, insert hook, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through all three loops.