Half Double Crochet Decrease

Half double crochet is a stitch that’s quick to make and can be used for a variety of projects. If a project requires shaping, like a crocheted sweater or hat, then increases or decreases will typically need to be used to ensure that the item fits properly. The half double crochet decrease is a simple decrease that takes two stitches and turns in into a single stitch. In this video, crochet designer Jen Lucas demonstrates how to work a half double crochet decrease, also known as a half double crochet two together (hdc2tog).

Jen begins by reviewing how to work a half double crochet stitch. She then starts working a half double crochet decrease by following these steps:

1. Yarn over hook.
2. Insert hook into next stitch, yarn over, and pull through a loop (3 loops on hook).
3. Yarn over hook (4 loops on hook).
4. Insert hook into next stitch, yarn over, and pull through a loop (5 loops on hook).
5. Yarn over and pull through all five loops (1 loop remains on hook, half double crochet decrease is complete).

Once the decrease is complete, Jen works another half double crochet stitch and demonstrates the decrease again. She notes that there are different ways the half double crochet decrease may be abbreviated in your pattern. It is commonly abbreviated as hdc2tog (half double crochet two together). It may also be seen as hdc dec (half double crochet decrease). It’s important to always check the pattern abbreviations or special stitches section so you know when the stitch needs to be worked.

This video uses US crochet terminology.