If you're already familiar with the half double crochet stitch, you’re just a few steps away from mastering the Herringbone Half Double Crochet Stitch (HHDC)! This variation is an easy-to-learn twist on the classic half double crochet, adding a sleek, diagonal texture that’s perfect for a variety of projects.
The HHDC stitch gets its name from the V-shaped, mirrored lines you often see in fish skeletons, creating a woven, chevron-like look. This unique texture adds depth and visual interest to your crochet work, making it an excellent choice for projects like a HHDC blanket, scarves, and more.
Learning how to do a HHDC stitch is simple if you're already comfortable with the half double crochet stitch. It’s a great way to add just the right amount of texture without making your work too bulky. The HHDC stitch offers a subtle yet sophisticated look that works well in everything from cozy blankets to stylish accessories.
If you love the herringbone style, be sure to check out my other herringbone crochet stitch variations: the Herringbone Single Crochet Stitch for a more traditional herringbone design, and the Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch for a looser take on the design.
And if you’re looking to expand your stitch collection even further, don’t miss out on my Daisy Stitch Crochet tutorial (also known as the Star Stitch) and the gorgeous Crochet Wattle Stitch tutorial, both of which add beautiful texture to your creations.
Happy crocheting!
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✏️ Things To Note:
- Master the Half Double Crochet First: The HHDC is a variation of the regular half double crochet stitch, so it’s essential to be comfortable with the basic half double crochet before diving into this one. It adds a unique twist to the traditional stitch, so understanding the foundation will make the process smoother.
- Tension is Key: Since the HHDC stitch uses a slip stitch in the process, it’s important to maintain consistent tension. If your stitches are too tight, it can be difficult to work into, and if they’re too loose, your fabric may lose its crisp, diagonal texture. Aim for a relaxed, consistent tension throughout.
- The Slip Stitch: The HHDC involves a slip stitch at the end of each stitch, which is what gives it its slanted, woven appearance. Take your time to ensure you’re pulling the slip stitch smoothly, as this is what makes the stitch stand out.
🪡 Materials Needed
- Any yarn
- 5 mm Hook
- Tapestry needle
💭Abbreviations to Remember (US terms)
- Chains (ch)
- Herringbone Half Double Crochet (hhdc)
🍵Instructions for Herringbone Half Double Crochet Stitch
For this HHDC stitch, we will be working in rows.
Chain as long as you want your project to be.
Row 1: Starting in the 3rd chain from the hook, make a *hhdc.
To make HHDC stitch: Yarn over, insert your hook into the chain, yarn over and pull up a loop like you normally would if you were making a normal half double crochet.
Then, this is where the stitch differs from a half double crochet stitch. After pulling up a loop and you now have 3 loops on your hook, pull directly through the first loop on the hook like you would a slip stitch.
Then yarn over and pull through the remaining 2 loops on your hook.
Repeat * for the rest of the row. Ch x1 and turn.
Row 2: Starting in the first stitch, make a hhdc. Repeat for the rest of the row, then ch x1 and turn.
Repeat row 2 for as long as you want your project.
That’s it for the HDC Herringbone stitch!
Now that you’ve added this beautiful, textured stitch to your crochet toolkit, it’s time to explore even more exciting techniques. Check out my other crochet stitch tutorials, like the Cross Treble Crochet Stitch, which creates a lacy, intricate pattern perfect for statement pieces.
If you're looking for something modern and stylish, the Crochet Larksfoot Stitch is a must-try, offering a color changing design that's great for blankets, scarves, and more. For a fun, bumpy texture, the Crochet Crunch Stitch is a fantastic choice, adding depth and interest to your projects. Each of these stitches opens up new possibilities for your crochet creations, so dive in and experiment!
Happy crocheting, and I look forward to seeing what you make next!
🐌Expert Tips
- Consistent Tension: One of the keys to getting a clean, smooth fabric with the HHDC is keeping your tension consistent. This stitch involves a bit more yarn manipulation than regular half double crochet, so be mindful of how tight or loose you pull your loops. Too tight, and it could be difficult to work; too loose, and your stitches may lose their definition.
- Use a Larger Hook: To keep the stitches from becoming too tight and to allow for smoother movement, try using a hook that’s one size larger than what you would normally use for half double crochet. This can help maintain a more relaxed feel and prevent the fabric from becoming stiff.
- Don't Skip the Slip Stitch: When you’re working this stitch, remember that the HHDC requires a slip stitch to complete each stitch. This gives it that signature slanted, woven texture. If you skip the slip stitch, the pattern won’t have the same look or structure.
- Keep Your Foundation Row Loose: When starting, make sure your foundation chain and the first few stitches are not too tight. If the base is too tight, it can make the first few rows tricky to work into and can result in an uneven edge.
🧵Pattern FAQs
The HHDC stich uses a slip stitch as part of the process, which creates a slanted, diagonal texture that is not found in the standard half double crochet stitch. This results in a more textured, woven look compared to the regular half double crochet, which is more straightforward and even.
Yes! The Stitch is incredibly versatile. It works great for blankets, scarves, sweaters, and even accessories. The stitch creates a lovely texture, making it ideal for projects where you want added interest and structure without too much bulk.
This stitch works well with most yarn types, but medium-weight yarns, such as worsted weight, tend to show off the texture beautifully. Lighter yarns like DK weight will give you a more delicate, drapey fabric, while heavier yarns can create a cozier, more textured piece.
🧶More Crochet Stitch Patterns
If you tried this Herringbone Half Double Crochet Stitch (or any other pattern on my website), please let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. I'd love to hear from you!
Herringbone Half Double Crochet Stitch
Materials
- Yarn of your choosing
- 5 mm Hook
- Tapestry needle
Abbreviations (US terms)
- Chains - ch
- Herringbone Half Double Crochet (hhdc)
Notes
- Master the Half Double Crochet First: The HHDC is a variation of the regular half double crochet stitch, so it’s essential to be comfortable with the basic half double crochet before diving into this one. It adds a unique twist to the traditional stitch, so understanding the foundation will make the process smoother.
- Tension is Key: Since this stitch uses a slip stitch in the process, it’s important to maintain consistent tension. If your stitches are too tight, it can be difficult to work into, and if they’re too loose, your fabric may lose its crisp, diagonal texture. Aim for a relaxed, consistent tension throughout.
- The Slip Stitch: The HHDC involves a slip stitch at the end of each stitch, which is what gives it its slanted, woven appearance. Take your time to ensure you’re pulling the slip stitch smoothly, as this is what makes the stitch stand out.
- Consistent Tension: One of the keys to getting a clean, smooth fabric with the HHDC is keeping your tension consistent. This stitch involves a bit more yarn manipulation than regular half double crochet, so be mindful of how tight or loose you pull your loops. Too tight, and it could be difficult to work; too loose, and your stitches may lose their definition.
- Use a Larger Hook: To keep the stitches from becoming too tight and to allow for smoother movement, try using a hook that’s one size larger than what you would normally use for half double crochet. This can help maintain a more relaxed feel and prevent the fabric from becoming stiff.
Instructions
- For the herringbone half double crochet stitch, we will be working in rows.
- Chain as long as you want your project to be.
- Row 1: Starting in the 3rd chain from the hook, make a *hhdc.
- To make a HHDC stitch: Yarn over, insert your hook into the chain, yarn over and pull up a loop like you normally would if you were making a normal half double crochet. Then, this is where the stitch differs from a half double crochet stitch. After pulling up a loop and you now have 3 loops on your hook, pull directly through the first loop on the hook like you would a slip stitch. Then yarn over and pull through the remaining 2 loops on your hook.
- Repeat * for the rest of the row. Ch x1 and turn.
- Row 2: Starting in the first stitch, make a hhdc. Repeat for the rest of the row, then ch x1 and turn.
- Repeat row 2 for as long as you want your project.
- That’s it for the HHDC Stitch!
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