Block of The Week: BLOCK 3: HALF DOUBLE CROCHET (Hdc)

The half double crochet stitch sits between single crochet and double crochet in height. It creates a fabric that is slightly taller than single crochet but more dense than double crochet.

The Half Double Crochet stitch combines elements of both single crochet and double crochet.

It is worked by:

1. Yarn over

2. Insert hook into the top loop of the stitch.

3. Yarn over, and pull through. You will have 3 loops on the hook.

4. Yarn over and pull through all three loops

Because the stitch is slightly taller than single crochet, the block will require fewer rows than Block 1.

Finished Size

Approximately 8.5" x 8.5"

Interior square before edging:

About 8" x 8""

Hook

5.5 mm crochet hook

Stitch Key (US Terms)

Abbreviation Meaning

Ch Chain

Hdc Half Double Crochet

R Row

St Stitch

(25) Stitch count at end of row

Pattern Notes

• This pattern uses US crochet terminology.

• The turning chain does not count as a stitch in this pattern.

• Always count your stitches at the end of each row.

Block 3: Half Double Crochet (Hdc) Instructions:

Foundation

Ch 28

Row Instructions:

Row 1

Yarn over.

Work Hdc in the 3rd chain from the hook.

Hdc across.

Ch 2 and turn.

(24 stitches)

Row 2 – Row 20

Hdc across.

Ch 2 and turn.

(25 stitches each row)

Check Your Size

Your square should measure approximately:

8 inches tall by 8 inches wide

Because half double crochet stitches are taller than single crochet but shorter than double crochet, this block uses fewer rows than Block 1 but more rows than Block 2.

Border Instructions

Ch 1.

Work single crochet evenly down the side of the block.

Try to crochet about 24–26 stitches along the side.

Corner:

Work 3 Sc in the corner stitch.

Continue around the block:

• Sc across the bottom

• 3 Sc in the corner

• Sc up the next side

• 3 Sc in the corner

• Sc across the top