Half Double Crochet: Understanding the Third Loop

Half double crochet sits between single and double crochet in height. Its construction leaves an extra strand that becomes a useful design feature.

Make the stitch

In U.S. terms: yarn over, insert the hook, yarn over and pull up a loop. Yarn over once more and pull through all three loops on the hook.

Find the third loop

Look just behind—or, depending on the fabric’s orientation, just in front of—the usual top V. A horizontal bar sits below those two loops. Turn the swatch in good light and gently spread the stitches until that strand is clear.

Work into it deliberately

Placing the next row into the third loop leaves the standard top V visible on the surface, creating a ridge that can resemble knit stitches. The effect is especially clear in rounds, though it can be used in flat work as directed by a pattern.

Check the edge

The third loop near a turning chain can be easy to miss. Count and mark the first and last stitch until the structure becomes familiar.

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