Crochet the Herringbone Half Double Crochet Stitch
Hey friends! I’ve got a new pattern in the works for you, so it seemed like the perfect time to introduce a new stitch tutorial. The Herringbone Half Double Crochet (HHDC) is super simple and a lot of fun. This twist on the classic Half Double Crochet stitch add some great texture that you’ll want to add to everything!
About the Stitch
Like I mentioned above, the Herringbone Half Double Crochet (HHDC) is a simple twist on the classic Half Double Crochet. If you already know how to do a regular Half Double Crochet, you’ll get the hang of this stitch in no time. And of course, it comes with some added texture and the classic slanting rows associated with a herringbone pattern.
The HHDC is typically worked back and forth in rows, however, it can be worked in the round as well for a slightly different texture. It works up a tad shorter than the classic HDC. For a small project, the height difference probably won’t be noticeable, but you might notice over a series of several rows. This stitch is also slightly more dense than a classic HDC.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by chaining any number of stitches, plus 1 stitch for a turning chain.
Step 1
In the second chain from your hook, yarn over and insert the hook.
Step 2
Yarn over and pull up a loop as you would with a classic hdc stitch. You should now have three loops on your hook.
Step 3
Slip the loop you just pulled up underneath of the loop beside it (the second loop on your hook). After slipping the loop under, you should have two loops remaining on your hook.
Step 4
Yarn over and pull through the two loops on your hook to complete the stitch.
Thats it! You just continue working this stitch in each chain across. When you reach the end, chain 1 and turn and work back across the exact same way. Slipping the loop under the other will cause the stitches to slant one direction, and when you work back across, they will slant the other direction. The slanting rows will mimic the classic v-shapes found in herringbone patterns.
Want to try it out? Check out my free Herringbone Clutch pattern!
Tip & Tricks
The Herringbone Half Double Crochet stitch can be a little tricky to master at first. You might find that slipping that loop under is giving you trouble. It gets easier as you go, but here’s a couple tricks that will help you get the hang of it.
Twist Your Hook
If you’re like me, you probably crochet with the curve of the hook facing you most of the time. One trick to get that loop slipped under without any hassle is to twist your hook away from you after you’ve pulled up a loop. If you rotate the hook away for a full 360 degrees while you’re pulling the loop under, it comes right through! If you want to see this magic in action, be sure to check out the tutorial video below.
Hold the base of the Stitch
If twisting the hook just isn’t your cup of tea, another trick to help you with this stitch is to hold the base of the stitch while you work. After you pull up a loop, you will simply pinch the base of the stitch between your thumb and middle finger to hold it in place. Then slip the loop under. This simple trick will keep that center loop from moving around or coming undone.
Video Tutorial
Pattern for Swatch
Ch 21.
Row 1 (RS): In second chain from hook, HHdc. HHdc in each chain across. (20)
Row 2 (WS): Ch 1 and turn. HHdc in each stitch across. (20)
Row 3 (RS): Ch 1 and turn. HHdc in each stitch across. (20)
Repeat Rows 2-3 until swatch reaches desired height.
Want to Learn More?!
I’m always adding new stitch tutorials to blog and Youtube channel. If you’d like to check out some more, click the buttons below. Or leave a comment on what stitch you’d like to see next!
Until next time, Happy Crafting!
Kelsie
