Half Double Crochet 2 Together Decrease (hdc2tog) +VIDEO

The hdc2tog crochet stitch is a simple decrease technique that combines 2 half double crochet stitches into 1 stitch to reduce stitch count without creating gaps in the fabric. Also called a half double crochet decrease, this technique is commonly used for hats, garments, amigurumi, and shaping crochet projects. This tutorial will show you how to hdc2tog step-by-step with written instructions and photos.

What is HDC2TOG?

The half double crochet 2 together technique combines two stitches into one without leaving a hole in your fabric. This is an easy way to decrease stitches while giving your work a professional look. If you have 15 stitches, doing a hdc2tog will result in 14 stitches by the end of the row. Your pattern will indicate whether to do this at the end, middle or start of the row.

Learn more beginner crochet techniques in the complete crochet stitches guide.

Decreases in hdc are used for beanies, sweaters and any project where you need some shaping. Learn the basic half double crochet stitch. The alternative to doing a hdc2tog is to skip a stitch. While this will also reduce your stitch count by 1, it will leave an unsightly gap in your work.The half double crochet decrease on the other hand will blend in seamlessly and look invisible.

How to Double Crochet 2 Together (Step by Step)

Here is how to hdc2tog step by step. This tutorial is in US terms. A hdc2tog in the US is equivalent to a htr2tog in the UK.

Half Double Crochet 2 Together Written Instructions

1. Yarn over, insert hook.
2. Yarn over and pull through (3 loops on hook). Do not complete the stitch.
3. Yarn over and insert the hook into the next stitch.
4. Yarn over and pull through (5 loops on hook).
5. Yarn over and pull through 5 loops (1 loop left on hook).

When to Use HDC2TOG

Use HDC2TOG any time a pattern calls for an invisible decrease in half double crochet, such as:

• Shaping garments (e.g., sleeves, bust darts)
• Tapering the crown of a hat
• Creating amigurumi shapes
• Reducing stitch count for custom shaping

Look for instructions like: hdc2tog over next 2 sts or Decrease 1 hdc

Tips for Perfecting HDC2TOG

• Don’t pull your loops too tight, particularly when you have the 5 on the hook. If you have tight loops it can be hard to pull through in the last step.
• Mark your decrease stitches with a stitch marker when shaping.

HDC2TOG vs Skipping a Stitch

Skipping a stitch reduces stitch count but leaves visible holes in the crochet fabric. Hdc2tog creates a smoother invisible decrease that blends naturally into the surrounding stitches.

HDC2TOG Faqs

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In Conclusion

And that’s all there is to half double crochet decreases. Use this technique to make a beanie from the bottom up! Learn how to double crochet 2 together now.