🌟 Introduction

Welcome back to Learn Crochet from Zero!
So far, you’ve learned how to create a chain foundation and master the single crochet stitch.
Now, in Episode Three, we’ll move to the Half Double Crochet (HDC) — a stitch that’s slightly taller and softer, making it perfect for blankets, sweaters, and cozy scarves.

The half double crochet is a favorite among beginners because it works up quickly and creates a beautiful, flexible fabric

🧰 What You’ll Need

• Yarn: Medium-weight yarn (same type used in previous lessons)

• Crochet Hook: 4.0 mm – 5.5 mm

• Scissors

• Foundation chain: Around 15–20 chains

💡 Tip: Keep using the same yarn and hook as before — it helps you practice consistency in stitch size.

🔗 Step-by-Step: How to Make a Half Double Crochet (HDC)

Step 1: Yarn Over

• Start by yarning over (wrap the yarn from back to front over the hook).

• This gives you two loops on the hook.

Step 2: Insert the Hook

• Skip the first two chains from the hook.

• Insert the hook into the third chain.

• You should now have the hook under both top loops of that chain.

• Wrap the yarn over the hook again.

Step 4: Yarn Over and Pull Through All Loops

• Wrap the yarn over 

• Pull it through all three loops on the hook in one motion.

• You’ve completed one half double crochet stitch!

✨ Helpful Tips

• Keep an even tension to maintain uniform stitch height.

• Count your stitches at the end of each row to keep your edges straight.

• Chain 2 at the start of every new row (this acts as the first stitch).

💡 The HDC is quicker to make than single crochet but still dense enough to create a warm, cozy fabric — it’s the perfect bridge to more advanced stitches.

🧵 Practice Exercise

Make a small swatch of 15 stitches wide × 6 rows high in half double crochet.
Try changing yarn colors at the end of a row to practice joining new yarns smoothly.

📘 What’s Next

In Episode Four, we’ll learn the Double Crochet (DC) — a taller stitch that creates lighter and airier fabric, often used for shawls, cardigans, and blankets.

Keep practicing your half double crochet until you feel your hands move smoothly and evenly!

🧶 Final Words

Congratulations on reaching Episode Three! 🎉
You’ve now learned three foundational techniques: chain stitch, single crochet, and half double crochet.
You’re officially building your crochet foundation — one stitch at a time.

✨ Stay tuned for Episode Four – The Double Crochet (DC) in the Learn Crochet from Zero series, brought to you by Sara Crochet Store.