Linked Half-Double Crochet Stitch: Tutorial and Tips

Linked Half-Double Crochet Stitch by Janice Jones

The linked half-double crochet stitch (LHDC) is a beautiful, textured stitch that creates a dense yet flexible fabric. It's a versatile tool in your crochet arsenal.

The 'links' between each stitch create a horizontal bar across the fabric, giving it a woven look. The stitch is slightly taller than a regular half-double crochet, resulting in a warm, flexible fabric.

This stitch is perfect for creating a wide range of projects, from warm, cozy blankets, scarves, and hats to more intricate designs.

In this article, I'll cover how to make the linked half-double crochet, what it looks like, tips for making it neater, what you can make with it, and how it compares to other half-double crochet stitches.

Mastering the linked half-double crochet is not a daunting task. While requiring you to keep your tension loose, it's straightforward and manageable.

You'll work into the last bar in the stitch you just created and then the next chain or stitch before pulling through three loops on the hook. With a bit of practice, you'll easily make this beautiful stitch.

Working into the Horizontal Bar

There are two ways that the linked half-double crochet stitch differs from the normal half-double crochet stitch:

1. The stitch is worked over two stitches.
2. The hook is inserted under the horizontal bar of the previous row.

When making a Half-Double Crochet Stitch, recall that we have many options when inserting the hook:

• Under the top two loops
• Under the front loop
• Under the back loop
• Into the space between the stitches
• Into the horizontal bar (3rd loop) of the half double crochet stitch:  This is the location we will use to make the Linked Half-double crochet stitch.

How to Make the Linked Half-Double Crochet Stitch

This stitch can be worked on any number of chain stitches.

Row One: Working into the Chain Stitches

1. Start with a chain of the desired length.
2. Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook.
3. Yarn over and pull up a loop. You should have two loops on your hook.
4. Insert your hook into the next chain. Yarn over and pull up a loop (three loops on the hook).
5. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook. This completes your first LHDC.
6. For the next stitch, Insert your hook under the horizontal bar (middle bar, 3rd loop) of the previous stitch (the "link").
7. Yarn over and pull up a loop (two loops on the hook)
8. Insert your hook into the next chain. Yarn over and pull up a loop. (three loops on the hook).
9. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook.
10. Repeat steps 6-9 until you reach the end of the row.
11. Chain 2 and turn your work to start the next row.

LHDC Second Row

When working linked half-double crochet stitches in the second and subsequent rows, you will work into the horizontal loop of the previous stitch and the top two loops of the next stitch.

Row Two:  Working into the stitches of the previous row.

Work the First LHDC Stitch:

1. Insert the hook into the second turning chain from the hook. 
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop (two loops on a hook. 
3. Insert the hook into the top two loops of the next stitch. 
4. Yarn over and pull up a loop. (3 loops on the hook). 
5. Yarn over and pull through all three loops. 
6. You will make the first lhdc like this on every row.

Second and all subsequent Lhdc stitches

1. Insert the hook into the horizontal bar (middle bar, 3rd loop)of the previous stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop (two loops on hook)
3. Insert the hook into the top two loops of the next stitch.
4. Yarn over and pull up a loop. (3 loops on the hook.)
5. Yarn over and pull through all three loops.

Repeat steps 1 to 5 across the row, then Chain 2, and Turn.

Repeat the steps for the first lhdc and second lhdc for the pattern.

Troubleshooting and tips for Making It Neater

• Tension:  Keep your tension consistent throughout the project to ensure even stitches.

• Split Yarn:  Ensure you don't split the yarn when inserting your hook under the horizontal bar. Some yarn split worse than others, so if this is the case, consider changing the type of yarn or hook you use. A hook with a rounded tip may be easier for this stitch.

• Practice:  Practice the stitch with a larger hook and thicker yarn to get a feel for the technique before moving on to your desired project. 

• Hook Size:  If you want a textured fabric with more drape, use a hook or two larger than recommended for the yarn you are using. If you want a tight, thick fabric, use the hook size recommended for your yarn or go down one size.

• Examine your stitches: If you have been crocheting for a while, you have developed a muscle memory for making the typical half-double crochet stitch. If you are creating a variation of the half-double crochet, it is easy to slip back into making the HDC as you are accustomed to. If you find yourself doing this, stop and rip out the mistake stitches before moving forward.

What You Can Make with the Linked Half-Double Crochet Stitch

The LHDC is versatile and can be used for a variety of projects, such as:

• Blankets and afghans
• Scarves and cowls
• Hats and ear warmers
• Sweaters and cardigans
• Pillows and cushion covers

Free Linked Half Double Crochet Market Bag

If you'd like to try working the half double crochet linked stitch, here is a free pattern that is made with this stitch and the single crochet stitch.

Get the Free Crochet Market Bag Pattern.

Comparison to Other Half-Double Crochet Stitches

The linked half-double crochet (LHDC) is similar to the regular half-double crochet (HDC) in height. Still, it creates a denser, more textured fabric.

Due to the linking technique, the LHDC is also less stretchy than the regular HDC.

Compared to the back loop half-double crochet (BLHDC) and front loop half-double crochet (FLHDC), the LHDC creates a more distinct texture and a slightly taller stitch.

More Half Double Crochet Variations

Conclusion:  The Linked Half-Double Crochet Stitch

In conclusion, the linked half-double crochet is a beautiful and versatile stitch that can add texture and warmth to your crochet projects. Following this article's step-by-step instructions and tips, you can master this stitch and create stunning projects that showcase its unique appearance.

Linked Half Double Crochet Stitch:  Pin for Future Reference

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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