How to Crochet the Crossed Half-Double Crochet Stitch: A Beginner's Guide

The crossed half double crochet stitch (XHDC) is beautiful and versatile. It adds texture and interest to your crochet projects and creates a thick and slightly stretchy fabric.

Though made entirely of half-double crochet stitches, it looks sophisticated and challenging. It’s not. This stitch is made by working a half double crochet stitch, skipping a stitch, returning to the skipped stitch, and then working a half double crochet again.

If you look closely, those two half-double crochet stitches create the crossed texture and look like little Xs. That’s all there is to it!

This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through the steps to create this stitch and provide ideas for incorporating it into your crafts.

Supplies Needed for this Swatch

• Yarn of your choice (For the practice swatch, I used a worsted-weight acrylic yarn (Red Heart) with a J/6.0 mm hook)
• Crochet hook appropriate for your yarn weight
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle

Skills Needed

• Half Double Crochet Stitch
• Skip Stitch
• Slip knot and chain stitch
• Weave in ends

Skill Level

Easy

Abbreviations

These abbreviations are typically used in crochet patterns.  I have spelled out the words in the instructions below.

• Hdc – half-double crochet
• XHdc – Crossed Half-double crochet stitch
• Sl st- Slip Stitch
• Ch – Chain stitch

Notes

• These instructions are written in US Terms. In US terms, the crossed half-double crochet stitch would be the half-treble crochet in UK terms.
• Work under both loops of the previous stitch when making the half-double crochet stitch.
• I have seen this stitch worked in different ways. The instructions I provide below are my favorite way to make the stitch because they create nice edges. My instructions call for making the crossed double crochet stitch on each row.
• You can try alternating the stitch by adding a row of regular half-double crochet alternated with the crossed half-double crochet.

Instructions

Create a foundation chain with an odd number of stitches.

Row 1:  Hdc in the second chain from hook.  Hdc across row.  Chain 2 and Turn.

Row 2: Make one Hdc in the first stitch. 

*Skip the next stitch and work one hdc into the top of the stitch, working through both loops of the previous stitch. 

Next, make one hdc in the previous stitch that you just skipped, crossing over in the front of the previous hdc, and inserting your hook from the back to the front under both loops of the previous stitch. 

Repeat across the row, ending with one hdc in the last stitch: chain 2 and turn.

Repeat row 2 until you reach your desired length. Fasten off and weave in ends. If you don't want to make a practice swatch, I have added a free dishcloth pattern to practice this stitch.

Tips and Tricks

When working the crossed HDC, ensure you are working into the stitch before the previous HDC to create the crossed effect.

I found it easier to work this stitch by going up one hook size and maintaining a loose tension.

Check your stitch count every couple of rows.  This will ensure you are not accidentally increasing or decreasing by placing the crossed half double crochet in the wrong place.   

When making the cross over, place your hook in the front of the fabric, but insert the hook from the back to the front of the skipped stitch.

Ways to Use the Crossed Half Double Crochet Stitch:

1. Dishcloths and washcloths: The XHDC stitch's textured surface is perfect for creating practical and attractive dishcloths and washcloths.
2. Scarves and cowls: The XHDC stitch adds visual interest and warmth to scarves and cowls.
3. Baby blankets: Create a cozy and unique baby blanket using the XHDC stitch, which provides a textured and eye-catching pattern.
4. Bags and pouches: Incorporate the XHDC stitch into your bag and pouch designs for a stylish and sturdy accessory.
5. Pillow covers: Use the XHDC stitch to create pillow covers with a distinct texture and add a decorative touch to your home decor.

Free Dishcloth Pattern

Supplies

• Sugar ‘n cream #4 worsted weight 100% Cotton
• Hook Size I/5.5 mm
• Scissors
• Tapestry Needle

Finished Size

Approximately 9 x 9 inches (23 x 23 cm)

Instructions

Ch 29

Row 1: Hdc in 2nd ch from hook. Hdc across. Ch2 and Turn.

Row 2: Hdc in 1st st. *Xhdc across row to the last st.* Hdc in last st. Ch 2 and turn.

Row 3 and Beyond: Repeat row 2 until your piece measures approximately 8.5 inches.

Border:

Work 1 sc in each st along top and bottom edges. Corners: Work (2 sc, 2ch, 2sc) in each corner space.

BONUS:  Crossed Half-Double Crochet Stitch Bookmark

I was playing with this stitch and my little swatch looked like it would make a great little bookmark.  If you'd like to try it, here are the instructions:

Ch 25.

Row 1:  Hdc in 2nd chain from hook.  Hdc across row.  Ch 2 and turn.

Row 2:  Hdc in 1st st. XHdc across to you reach the last st.  Hdc in last st.  Ch 2 and turn.

Repeat row 2, 3 more times.

Last Row:  Hdc across.

Finish by working one sc in each stitch around.  Add a short fringe if desired.

Last Words

The crossed half-double stitch is a simple yet effective way to elevate your crochet projects. It is one of many different variations of the half-double crochet stitch.

Following this beginner's guide and experimenting with the various applications, you'll soon be incorporating this delightful stitch into your crochet repertoire.

So, grab some yarn and a hook, and let’s get crocheting together.

More Half Double Crochet Stitch Variations

Crossed Half-Double Crochet Stitch:  Save Today -- Crochet Tomorrow

Disclosure:   This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase from one of these links I will get a small  commission.

Hi, there, I'm Janice, the voice behind this website and avid knitter and crochet enthusiast. I want to share my passion with you and help you learn how to knit or crochet, smarter.

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