I am excited to share this stitch tutorial for how to crochet the paired half double crochet stitch, which is also known as the hdc2tog or half double crochet two together.
This stitch is a variation on the half double crochet stitch and is often used as a decrease in patterns to turn two stitches into one.
It is also easy to use it in place of a regular half double crochet or other stitch by working the first part of the next paired half double crochet stitch into the same stitch as the last paired half double crochet stitch.
The paired half double crochet stitch or hdc2tog stitch is easy to learn with this written and video tutorial. This is a great way to decrease in a row or round or to add some variety to a half double crochet project.
Techniques and Abbreviations Used:
hdc2tog – half double crochet two together
ch – chain
st(s) – stitch(es)
yo – yarn over
Paired Half Double Crochet or HDC2TOG Written Instructions
hdc2tog stitch: YO, insert hook into first stitch from row below, yo and pull through drawing up three loops on hook, yo, insert hook into second stitch from row below, yo and pull through drawing up five loops on hook, yo and draw through all five loops on hook.
To make a sample swatch:
Ch 17
Row 1: Work 1 hdc2tog into 3rd and 4th ch from hook, work 1 hdc2tog across starting each in the same ch of the last st worked, turn.
Row 2: Ch 2, work 1 hdc2tog into first and second sts, work 1 hdc2tog across the row beginning each in the same st as the last st worked, turn.
Row 3 – end: Repeat Row 2.
Helpful Tips:
- Pay attention to the stitch placement and where the pattern tells you to insert your hook for both parts of this stitch. Some patterns will also call for a chain stitch between two hdc2tog stitches.
Project Ideas:
Winding Ridges Messy Bun Hat by Simply Hooked by Janet – This quick and easy pattern uses the hdc2tog stitch to craft this stylish hat.