If you want to start a project with a long chain and a row of half double crochet stitches, just don’t! Instead, consider the Foundation Half Double Crochet first!
Foundation Half Double Crochet – Video Tutorial
WHAT IS a FOUNDATION Half Double CROCHET?
The Foundation Half Double Crochet (shortened as FHDC) is a technique that allows you to crochet the foundation chain and the first row of half double crochet in one go!
Basically, you start with just two chains, make the first half double crochet, and then keep adding one chain and one half double crochet at each step!
I promise that it sounds more complicated than what it actually is.
Why Should You Try the Foundation Half Double Crochet?
When a project starts with a long row of half double crochet stitches, it can get quite challenging to get that foundation chain and first row done.
We’ve all experienced being at chain number 178, extra focused, counting, and then, someone enters the room and TALKS to you! How dare you talk to me while counting?
But well, that’s it… You lose the stitch count and have to start over again!
Now, imagine learning a new technique where even if you lose your stitch count, it is extra easy to count stitches!
That’s what foundation rows are there for!
- But there are way more advantages than just making it easy to count stitches!
- The FHDC has the great benefit of being extra stretchy. This is extremely useful for sweaters, garments, accessories, especially hats and headbands!
- With the FHDC, you’ll also have an easy life if you need to add or frog a few stitches!
NOT ONLY Half DOUBLE CROCHET
Keep in mind that the same principle of the FHDC can be used to make a foundation row with practically any stitch! You can make a:
Pin this free tutorial on how to crochet the FHDC to your favorite Pinterest board!
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Cool, time to see how to crochet the FHDC row with my step-by-step tutorial!
MATERIALS
- 5.5-mm (I/9 USA, 5 UK) Hook
- Aran (4 Medium) Yarn. I used Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Aran, color Kingfisher Blue (834)
Abbreviations (US Terms)
Ch – Chain
Hdc – Half Double Crochet
St – Stitch
Yo – Yarn Over
FOUNDATION Half DOUBLE CROCHET – STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL
STEP 1
Ch 2, and yo.
Step 2
Insert your hook into the first made ch, yo, and pick up a loop.
Steps 3-4
Yo, draw yarn through the first loop on your hook, yo again.
Steps 5-6
Draw yarn through all 3 loops on your hook to complete the hdc. Yo.
Now, notice how in step 3, you created a ch at the bottom of your hdc (see loops indicated by the arrow in the picture below).
Step 7
Insert your hook into the ch at the base of the first hdc.
Step 8
Yo and pull up a loop.
Note. This step is crucial for a straight foundation row. Make sure that the loop you pull up here is really at the same level as the loop on your hook!
Repeat steps 3-8 to grow your half double crochet foundation row.
Let me know if you found this tutorial useful, and show me your projects on Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #raffamusadesigns
Learn more crochet techniques with these step-by-step tutorials!
Couldn’t find the like place on your web but I find your tutorials very helpful. I haven’t crocheted in years and have forgotten how so thank you from a frustrated old lady.
Hi Laura, thank you so much, I really appreciate your nice comment 🙂