Half Double Crochet Offset Stitch:  Beginner Friendly Tutorial

Half Double Crochet Offset Stitch by Janice Jones

This stitch is like a half-double crochet stitch, but the fabric looks very different.  The only difference is where you put your hook when making the stitches.  For this pattern, we are inserting the hook between the posts of the stitches in the row below rather than in the top loops.  I think it has the look of a lovely woven fabric.

Before we get into how to make the stitch, let's compare a typical half double crochet stitch with it's Offset cousin.

Half Double Crochet Vs. Offset HDC

Comparison of Both Stitches

Complexity: The offset stitch is slightly more complex to create than the regular HDC since it requires careful attention to where stitches are placed in each row.

Visual Interest: The offset stitch generally provides more visual interest and is excellent for projects where texture and design are important.

Best Way to Use the Stitches: While the regular HDC is great for creating solid, consistent fabrics (such as blankets, sweaters, and hats), the offset version is perfect for when you want to add a unique texture or pattern to your project, such as in decorative items, textured scarves, or shawls.

Both stitches have their own unique beauty and practicality, so the choice between the two largely depends on the intended look and feel of the final crochet piece.

How to Create the Half Double Crochet Offset Stitch

The offset stitch is worked between the posts of the previous row as opposed to the half double crochet stitch where you work the new stitches into the top two loops of the previous row.

Where to Insert the Hook for a HDC

Where to Insert the Hook for a HDC Offset Stitch

Skill Level

Skills Needed

Chain Stitch

Half Double Crochet Stitch

Weave in ends

Materials Needed

For this stitch tutorial, we will be making a sample swatch, but feel free to use these instruction in your project.

• Yarn: Any type suitable for your project.  I am using Red Heart Supersaver worsted weight yarn
• Crochet hook: Appropriately sized for the yarn you are using. I am using a US H (5.0 mm) hook.
• Scissors
• Yarn Needle for weaving in ends

Abbreviations

• HDC: Half Double Crochet
• Ch: Chain
• St(s): Stitch(es)
• Sp:  Space

Notes

These instructions use US Terms.

Basic Instructions

Foundation Chain: Start with a chain of your desired length.  For the purposes of this tutorial, I chained 18 stitches.

Row 1: Yarn over, insert the hook into the third chain from the hook, yarn over and pull up a loop (three loops on hook), yarn over and pull through all three loops. This is the typical Half double crochet stitch.  Continue HDC across the row.

Row 2: Ch 2, turn your work. Insert your hook between the first and second posts of the previous row. Yarn over and pull up a loop.  Yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook. 

Continue making half double crochet stitches between the posts of the previous row until you reach the end of the row.   
Row 3 and beyond: Repeat Row 2 until you reach your desired length. 

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Pattern Instructions

If you encounter this stitch in a pattern, the instructions would look something like this:

Ch 18

Row 1:  Hdc in 3rd ch from hook.  Hdc in each chain across row.  Ch 2 and turn.

Row 2:  Hdc in first sp and in each space across row.  Ch 2 and turn.

Row 3 and Beyond:  Repeat row 2 until you reach your desired length.  Fasten off and weave in ends.

Half Double Crochet Offset Stitch Project Ideas

• Striped Blankets
• Pillow covers
• Dishcloths
• Cup Cozy
• Scarves
• Cowls
• Shawls
• Placemats

Ways to Alter the Half Double Crochet Offset Stitch

If you use a hook that is one more sizes larger than what is recommended for this stitch, your fabric will be more drapy and open, often appearing lacey.

If you use a hook that is one or more sizes smaller that what is recommended, this stitch will look like linen.

If you switch colors every two rows, you will get a truly unique look.

Try using a varigated yarn.  

This stitch also works well when employed in a granny square pattern, either the traditional or as a solid granny square.

Last Words

In conclusion, mastering the half double crochet offset stitch opens up a new way of making the half double crochet stitch. 

By inserting your hook between the posts rather than under the two loops of the stitches from the previous row, you can create a fabric with extra texture and visual interest. Whether you are crafting cozy blankets, stylish scarves, or intricate home décor items, integrating this versatile stitch can elevate your creations.

You can experiment with different yarns and add colors to make interesting very personal designs.

Happy crocheting!

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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