The half double crochet slip stitch is a great addition to your repertoire of basic crochet stitches. Crochet enthusiasts, are you ready to explore a versatile and beautiful texture for your next project? It’s a great alternative to traditional stitches, creating a smooth, crocheted fabric ideal for scarves, blankets, and more.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to expand your favorite stitches, this crochet stitch tutorial will guide you through every step, including chain stitches, working into the 2nd chain, and achieving a perfect finish at the end of the row.
What is the Half Double Crochet Slip Stitch?
The half double slip stitch combines the simplicity of a slip stitch (sl st) with the height of a half double crochet, creating a stitch pattern that’s both durable and elegant. This stitch is often used in Bosnian crochet, known for its stunning and uniform designs.
Why Choose the Half Double Slip Stitch?
The half double crochet slip stitch is an easy crochet stitch that offers beautiful texture for any project.
It’s a great alternative to single crochet and double crochet stitches. Lots of versatility for creating crochet pieces with unique designs.
What is the difference between the half double crochet stitch and the half double crochet slip stitch?
The half double crochet stitch (hdc) and the half double crochet slip stitch (hdc sl st) are similar in technique but differ significantly in structure and outcome. The half double crochet is taller than a single crochet but shorter than a double crochet, making it a versatile choice for adding height to a project.
To create this stitch, you yarn over, insert your hook into the designated stitch, yarn over again to pull up a loop (resulting in three loops on your hook), and then yarn over once more to pull through all three loops. This produces a solid, slightly raised texture that works well for building height in crochet fabric.
In contrast, the half double crochet slip stitch is much shorter, resembling a slip stitch in height. To make this stitch, you yarn over, insert the hook into the designated stitch, yarn over to pull up a loop (resulting in three loops on your hook), and then pull the first loop through the other two loops, as you would with a standard slip stitch. The result is a dense, smooth texture with minimal height, ideal for creating tight, even fabric or decorative edges.
The primary differences between these two stitches lie in their height, texture, and stretch. The half double crochet creates a taller, slightly stretchy fabric, while the half double crochet slip stitch produces a firmer, less stretchy material. Both stitches have unique applications, and understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right one for your project.
Directions: Half Double Crochet Slip Stitch
Skill Level
Beginner-Friendly
Abbreviations
- BLO = Back Loop Only
- CH = Chain
- ST = Stitch
- YO = Yarn Over
Crochet Stitches
Half Double Crochet Slip Stitch (HDC SL ST) Yarn over, insert hook into the next stitch, pull up a loop so that there are 3 loops on the hook. Pull the loop through the remaining 2 loops on the hook. Stitch complete. See Photo Tutorial below pattern.
Pattern Notes
Written in US Terminology.
Turning chain does not count as a stitch.
Tension Matters. Keep your tension even to achieve consistent stitches and a polished look.
What is a turning chain? When turning and working on the next row, you will be using a turning chain.
A turning chain is a specified number of chain stitches worked at the beginning of a row to bring the yarn up to the correct height of the stitch being worked.
Does the Turning Chain Count as a Stitch?
The turning chain may count as a stitch depending on the crochet pattern designer’s instructions.
However, in this pattern, the turning chain does NOT count as a stitch. Therefore, you will make the first half double crochet slip stitch in the first stitch. Sometimes referred to as the same stitch, which is the base stitch of the turning chains.
Materials You’ll Need
To get started, gather the following supplies.
Crochet hook. Choose the hook size recommended on your yarn label (e.g., 4mm or 5mm hook for a medium weight yarn).
Yarn. Use any yarn suitable for your project.
Scissors, tape measure, and a tapestry needle.
Half Double Crochet Slip Stitch
Begin by making a slip knot and adding a loop on your hook.
Chain any number. The foundation chain will determine the width of your work.
Row 1
HDC SL ST in second chain from hook and in each remaining chain.
More detailed instruction for row 1.
Yarn over and insert your hook into the second chain (2nd st) from the hook. Yarn over again and pull through all the loops on your hook. You’ve just made your first HDC SL ST.
Repeat this process in each chain until you reach the end of the row.
Row 2
Chain 1 and turn work. HDC SL ST in each stitch across.
More detailed instruction for row 2.
At the end of each row, chain one (this is your turning chain) and turn your work. Yarn over and insert your hook into the first ST of the row. Yarn over again and pull through all the loops on your hook.
Continue working the half double slip stitch into each ST across.
Repeat Row 3 and Beyond
Continue to repeat row 2 until the end of the project.
Video Tutorial and Photo Guide
For visual learners, check out our video tutorial and step-by-step photo tutorial included below. These resources will help clarify each step and ensure your success.
Video Tutorials for the Half Double Crochet Stitch
Right hand half double crochet tutorial
Left hand half double crochet tutorial
Video Tutorials for the Half Double Crochet Slip Stitch
Right hand half double crochet slip stitch tutorial
Left hand half double crochet slip stitch tutorial
Variations to the Half Double Crochet Slip Stitch
This stitch is used in many crochet patterns. However, sometimes you will see that the stitch is modified. Here are a few examples of what you might find.
Front Loop half double crochet slip stitch, Back Loop half double crochet slip stitch, or even around the stitch post.
Depending on where the crochet hook is inserted before yarning over, will change the look of the stitch. Once you learn how to work the basic stitches, you can experiment with different ways to find your favorite method. It is a beautiful crochet stitch.
You can find Victoria crocheting, quilting, and creating recipes. She has cooked in restaurants for over 20 years, including many larger parties. She learned to crochet when she was just 11 years old and has been crocheting ever since; over 50 years now. Over 40 years ago, she loved her first class in sewing and continues to hone her skills in quilting. Many have enjoyed the handmade gifts over the years. In her professional career, she has worked in management in a wide variety of businesses including higher education as a dean of a division. All the while attending college part-time to achieve her doctorate in higher education with an emphasis in e-learning.