Wide Half Double Crochet Stitch: Add to Your Crochet Repertoire

by Janice Jones

The Wide Half Double Crochet Stitch: A Versatile Addition to Your Crochet Repertoire

The wide half double crochet (WHDC) stitch is a beautiful and versatile stitch that can add texture and interest to your crochet projects. Despite its intricate appearance, this stitch is a variation of the classic half-double crochet stitch, making it accessible even to beginners.

In this article, we'll explore how to make the WHDC stitch, provide tips for achieving the best results, suggest projects that showcase this stitch, and address common problems when working with it.

Tutorial: How to Make the Half Double Crochet Stitch

Before we jump into the wide half-double crochet stitch, let's review the normal half-double-crochet

Where to Insert the Hook

• Insert the hook under both loops of the next stitch
• Insert the hook into the front loop of the next stitch
• Insert the hook into the back loop of the next stitch
• Insert the hook into the stitch below
• Insert the hook between the stitches: (This is the Wide Half Double Crochet)

Half Double Crochet How-to Review

Here are a couple of things to remember about the half-double crochet:

The standard half double crochet stitch worked as follows:

• Yarn over and insert your hook into the top loops of the next stitch.
• Yarn over and pull through. There are three loops on the hook.
• Yarn over and pull through all three loops.

Turning Chains for Half Double Crochet

Remember, you usually would make a turning chain of 2 chains. This turning chain serves to bring your yarn to the correct height for the next row and maintain the stitch pattern. If your sides are not straight, I recommend only making one chain as the turning chain.

Where to Start the HDC

After making the foundation chain, Insert your hook into the third chain from the hook.

Wide Half Double Crochet Tutorial

• Yarn over and insert your hook between the following two stitches and under the third loop.
• Yarn over and pull through. There are three loops on the hook.
• Yarn over and pull through all three loops.

Make a Practice Swatch

You will need some yarn, a hook, scissors, and a tapestry needle to weave in the ends.

Chain any number of stitches to start your practice swatch. This will be the width of your swatch. Then, follow the instructions for Row 1 and Row 2 to create a small piece that showcases the WHDC stitch.

Row 1: Hdc in the third chain from the hook. Hdc in each chain across the row. Ch 1, Turn

Row 2: Make a whdc in first space and each space between stitches across rows. Ch 1 and Turn.
Repeat row 2 until you reach your desired length. Fasten off.

Tips for Making the Wide Half Double Crochet Stitch Look Better

1. Keep your tension consistent throughout the project to ensure even stitches.
2. When inserting your hook into the space, be sure that you are working under all three loops.
3. Experiment with different yarn weights and hook sizes to achieve your project's desired drape and texture. Using a larger hook than usual for the yarn weight will achieve a loose, airy, drapery fabric. In contrast, if the hook you use is smaller, the fabric will be tight and stiff.
4. Block your finished project to remove the stitches and enhance the overall appearance. Blocking can help even out your stitches, open up lace patterns, and give your project a professional finish.

Projects That Showcase the Wide Half Double Crochet Stitch

• Scarves and cowls: The open, airy texture of the WHDC stitch makes it perfect for creating lightweight and breathable accessories.
• Baby blankets: The WHDC stitch creates a soft and cozy fabric ideal for baby blankets and loveys.
• Market bags: The stitch's openness allows for stretchy and durable market bags that can hold plenty of groceries.
• Shawls and wraps: The WHDC stitch can create beautiful, drapey shawls and wraps with a unique texture.

Common Problems and Solutions

• If you have been crocheting for a while, placing your hook between stitches might take some concentration instead of the typical location where we insert the hook.
• Uneven stitches: Focus on keeping consistent tension and practice the stitch to improve uniformity.

Conclusion

The wide half double crochet stitch is a fun and easy way to add variety to your crochet projects. With practice and attention to detail, you'll be able to create beautiful, textured items that showcase the unique characteristics of this stitch.

Don't be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get the hang of it. The key is to keep practicing and experimenting with different yarns and projects to find the perfect combination for your next crochet adventure!

Wide 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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