Master the Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch: A Complete Guide

Are you looking to elevate your crochet projects from beautiful to breathtaking? If you’re a crafter who appreciates gorgeous texture, a lovely drape, and a stitch that looks stunning from every angle, then you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about a game-changing stitch that will quickly become a favorite in your creative toolbox: the herringbone double crochet stitch. This elegant variation on a classic creates a dense, woven-like fabric with a distinctive “V” pattern, reminiscent of classic herringbone tweed. [13, 15] It’s perfect for everything from cozy blankets to stylish garments. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into mastering the herringbone double crochet stitch, covering everything from the basic mechanics to pro tips that will ensure your projects are flawless every time. Get your favorite hook and yarn ready—you’re about to fall in love with this beautifully textured stitch.

What Makes the Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch So Special?

In the vast world of crochet, some stitches simply stand out, and the herringbone double crochet stitch (often abbreviated as HBdc) is one of them. While it shares a name and height with the traditional double crochet, its unique construction gives it a completely different character and set of advantages that make it a superior choice for certain projects.

The Unique Woven Texture and Drape

The first thing you’ll notice about a fabric made with the herringbone double crochet stitch is its incredible texture. The magic happens in a special pull-through motion that causes each stitch to slant slightly. [21] When worked back and forth in rows, these slanted stitches create a beautiful, interlocking zigzag pattern that looks almost woven. [13] Unlike the more open and hole-filled fabric of a standard double crochet, the HBdc creates a denser, more solid material. [15] This makes it wonderfully warm and ideal for projects like afghans, thick scarves, and structured garments. Despite its density, the fabric isn’t stiff; it boasts a beautiful, fluid drape that feels luxurious and comfortable. [4]

A Reversible Fabric: A Crocheter’s Dream

One of the most celebrated features of the herringbone double crochet stitch is that it’s completely reversible. [2, 3] Both the front and back of your work will look identical, with the same gorgeous, textured pattern. This is a huge advantage for projects where both sides are visible, such as blankets draped over a sofa, scarves wrapped around your neck, or placemats on a dining table. [14] You’ll never have to worry about a “wrong side” showing, which gives your finished items a polished, professional look from every angle. This reversible quality makes the herringbone double crochet stitch a highly practical and versatile choice.

Comparing it to Traditional Crochet Stitches

To truly appreciate the HBdc, it’s helpful to compare it to its cousins.

• vs. Standard Double Crochet (dc): A standard double crochet fabric can be quite open, with noticeable gaps between stitches. The HBdc, by contrast, creates a much tighter, more solid fabric with fewer holes. [15] It’s also noted to be slightly shorter and wider than a traditional dc stitch. [15]
• vs. Herringbone Half Double Crochet (HHDC): The HHDC is another beautiful textured stitch, but it’s shorter than the HBdc. [35] While HHDC is fantastic for many projects, the taller herringbone double crochet stitch works up faster, making it a great choice for larger items like blankets and afghans where you want to see progress more quickly. [4]

Ultimately, choosing the herringbone double crochet stitch is about wanting more than just height; it’s about choosing texture, density, and a flawless, reversible finish.

Getting Started: Your Tools and Terms

Before you dive into your first swatch of the gorgeous herringbone double crochet stitch, let’s make sure you’re set up for success. Having the right tools and understanding the language of the pattern will make the learning process smooth and enjoyable.

Choosing the Right Yarn and Hook

The beauty of the herringbone double crochet stitch is its versatility; it pairs well with almost any yarn weight, from lightweight DK to super bulky. [5] However, for beginners learning the stitch, a few choices can make a big difference:

• Yarn: Opt for a smooth, worsted-weight (medium weight, size 4) yarn in a light color. [5] This type of yarn provides excellent stitch definition, making it much easier to see where to insert your hook and to admire the textured pattern as it forms. Cotton yarn is a great choice for practice swatches, as they can be turned into useful dishcloths. [4]
• Hook: Use the hook size recommended on your yarn label as a starting point. Some crocheters find that this stitch can feel a bit tight due to the extra pull-through motion. If you notice your fabric is stiff or it’s difficult to insert your hook, don’t hesitate to go up a hook size (e.g., from a 5.5 mm to a 6.0 mm). [13] This can help you maintain looser tension and achieve a better drape.

For the tutorial in this article, we’re using a J/10 (6.0 mm) crochet hook and a standard medium-weight yarn.

Understanding the Abbreviation (HBdc)

In the world of crochet patterns, stitches are almost always abbreviated to keep instructions concise. The standard US crochet abbreviation for the herringbone double crochet stitch is HBdc. [6] You might occasionally see it written as “herr dc” as well. [5] Throughout this guide, we’ll be using US crochet terminology. It’s a simple abbreviation, but knowing it is key to confidently reading patterns that feature this beautiful stitch. Now that you have your tools and terms, let’s get to the fun part: making the stitch!

How to Crochet the Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

This is where the magic begins! The herringbone double crochet stitch might look complex, but it’s just a clever variation of the standard double crochet. The key difference is an extra little pull-through that creates the signature slant. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll master it in no time.

H4: Starting Your Foundation Chain

One of the best things about the herringbone double crochet stitch is its flexibility. There are no special multiples to worry about for your starting chain. [5] You can chain any number of stitches you need to achieve the desired width for your project. For this practice swatch, let’s begin with a chain of 10.

H4: Creating the First Stitch (A Detailed Breakdown)

We will begin our first stitch in the second chain from the hook. The loop on your hook never counts as a chain.

1. Yarn Over (YO): Wrap the yarn over your hook from back to front.
2. Insert Hook: Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook.
3. First Pull-Through: Yarn over again and pull a loop through the chain. You will now have three loops on your hook.
4. The Herringbone Twist: This is the most important step! Without yarning over again, pull the first loop on your hook (the one you just created) through the second loop on your hook. This is like a slip stitch motion. You will now have two loops remaining on your hook. [1]
5. Third Pull-Through: Yarn over and pull through only the first loop on your hook. You will still have two loops on your hook.
6. Final Pull-Through: Yarn over one last time and pull through both remaining loops on the hook.

Congratulations, you’ve just completed your first herringbone double crochet stitch! It might feel a little awkward at first, but with a few repetitions, it will become second nature.

H4: Working Across the First Row

Continue working one herringbone double crochet stitch in each chain across your foundation chain. Let’s repeat the steps for clarity:

YO, insert hook, YO, pull through chain, then pull that same loop through the next loop on the hook. YO, pull through one loop. YO, pull through the final two loops.

A helpful tip is to think of it as a “four-pull” process after inserting your hook. This mental cue can help you keep track of the steps until you build muscle memory. Continue this until you reach the end of the row.

H4: Turning and Starting the Second Row

Once you’ve completed the first row, it’s time to build upon it.

1. Chain Up: To begin the second row, chain two and turn your work. Some patterns may call for a chain one or three, but a chain two works well for maintaining good height without creating a large gap. [27, 28]
2. Work the First Stitch: Work your first herringbone double crochet stitch of the new row into the very first stitch—the same one your turning chain is coming from.
3. Continue Across: Continue working one HBdc in the top of each stitch from the row below. When you look at the top of your work, you’ll see a series of “V’s.” Each “V” represents one stitch. [28] Make sure you work into both loops of the “V” for a sturdy fabric.

Simply repeat this second row for as long as you need to achieve your desired project length. You’ll quickly see the beautiful, slanted texture of the herringbone double crochet stitch begin to emerge.

H4: Video Tutorial: Watch it in Action

Sometimes, seeing is believing! For a visual demonstration of every step, watch this helpful video tutorial. You can pause and re-watch as many times as you need to build your confidence.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch

Once you’ve got the basic mechanics down, a few extra tips can take your herringbone double crochet stitch from good to gorgeous. Paying attention to these small details will help you create a fabric that is even, professional, and truly showcases the beauty of the stitch.

H4: Maintaining Consistent Tension

Tension is the secret ingredient to beautiful crochet, and it’s especially important for the herringbone double crochet stitch. Because of the extra slip-stitch motion, it can be easy to pull your yarn too tightly, making it difficult to work the subsequent steps. [13]

• Loosen Up: Consciously try to keep your loops slightly looser than you might for a standard double crochet. This will make it much easier to pull the first loop through the second.
• Go Up a Hook Size: If you’re still struggling with tight stitches, try using a crochet hook that is one size larger than the yarn recommends. This is a simple trick that can dramatically improve your tension and the drape of your final fabric. [13]
• Consistent Yarn Flow: Ensure your yarn is pulling smoothly from the skein. Any snags or tangles can cause you to tug on the yarn, which will inadvertently tighten your stitches.

The goal is to create stitches that are uniform in size. A relaxed, even tension will allow the characteristic slant of the stitch to shine through beautifully.

H4: Getting Your Edges Straight

Wavy or uneven edges can detract from an otherwise lovely project. While the herringbone double crochet stitch naturally has a slight scallop, there are techniques to keep the sides as straight as possible.

• The Turning Chain: How you handle the turning chain makes a big difference. Many crocheters have success with a “chain 2, turn” and working the first HBdc into the very first stitch. [27] Other methods, like using a stacked single crochet as your first stitch, can create an even straighter edge. [19] Experiment on a swatch to see which method you prefer.
• Count, Count, Count: The number one reason for uneven edges is accidentally adding or dropping stitches. Be meticulous about counting your stitches on every row, especially when you are new to the herringbone double crochet stitch. [28] Remember that your turning chain may or may not count as a stitch, depending on the method you choose. Be consistent!
• The Last Stitch: The last stitch of the row can be tricky to spot. If you used a turning chain to start the previous row, be sure to work your final stitch into the top of that chain to maintain your stitch count. [14] Using a stitch marker in the top of your turning chain can be a lifesaver. [8]

H4: How to Count Your Stitches Correctly

Accurate counting is crucial for any project. For the herringbone double crochet stitch, counting is just like with most other crochet stitches.

• Look for the ‘V’: Turn your work so you are looking at the top edge. You will see a series of V-shapes. Each ‘V’ counts as one stitch. [28]
• Don’t Forget the First/Last Stitch: The stitches at the beginning and end of the row can sometimes get squished or be harder to identify. Take extra care to ensure you are counting them correctly. As mentioned, using a stitch marker in your first and last stitch of a row is a fantastic habit for beginners and experts alike.

By mastering your tension, perfecting your edges, and keeping an accurate count, you’ll ensure every project you make with the herringbone double crochet stitch is a masterpiece.

Creative Projects for the Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch

Now that you’re comfortable with the technique, it’s time for the best part: deciding what to create! The dense, woven texture and reversible nature of the herringbone double crochet stitch make it perfect for a wide range of projects that are both beautiful and functional. [24] Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

H4: Cozy Blankets and Throws

A herringbone double crochet blanket is a true classic. The stitch creates a thick, warm, and weighty fabric that is perfect for snuggling up on a cold day. Because it’s reversible, it will look stunning no matter how it’s draped over your couch or bed. [3] The stitch works up relatively quickly compared to single crochet, making even a large afghan feel like an achievable goal. [4] Consider using a soft, bulky yarn to create an extra-plush and cozy throw, or try color-blocking with stripes for a modern look.

H4: Stylish Scarves and Shawls

Scarves are another ideal project for the herringbone double crochet stitch. The reversible fabric means you never have to worry about the “wrong” side showing when you wrap it around your neck. [14] The beautiful zig-zag texture adds a touch of sophisticated, classic style to any outfit. A long, wide scarf made with a merino wool or alpaca blend would be incredibly luxurious, while a lighter-weight cotton version would be perfect for a stylish spring accessory.

H4: Modern Home Decor Items

Don’t stop at wearables! The sturdy, dense fabric created by the herringbone double crochet stitch is fantastic for home goods.

• Pillows: Create chic and textured throw pillow covers that add a touch of handmade elegance to your living room.
• Placemats and Table Runners: The tight weave of the stitch makes for durable and stylish table linens. They are easy to wash and will hold their shape well. [2]
• Bags and Purses: The stitch is strong and dense enough to create sturdy market bags, totes, or clutches without needing a fabric liner.

Any project where you desire a beautiful texture and a solid, non-holey fabric is a perfect candidate for the wonderful herringbone double crochet stitch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a clear tutorial, you might run into a hiccup or two while learning the herringbone double crochet stitch. Don’t worry, this is a normal part of the learning process! Here are solutions to a couple of the most common issues crocheters face with this stitch.

H4: Why is My Fabric Slanting or Biasing?

One of the unique characteristics of the herringbone double crochet stitch is that each stitch has a natural lean. When you work back and forth in rows, the lean of the stitches should alternate direction with each row, creating the classic zig-zag pattern. [17] However, if you are working in the round without turning, your stitches will all lean in the same direction, causing your entire piece to slant or spiral. [14]

• The Fix for Working in Rows: If your flat piece is slanting, the most likely culprit is your tension or your stitch count at the edges. Double-check that you are not accidentally skipping the last stitch or adding an extra one. Uneven tension on your turning chains can also pull the fabric out of shape.
• The Fix for Working in the Round: This stitch is not naturally suited for working in continuous rounds. To achieve the herringbone look in a circular project (like a hat or cowl), you must turn your work at the end of each round, just as you would when working in flat rows. This will ensure the stitches slant back and forth, canceling out the bias.

H4: Dealing with Loops That Are Too Tight or Too Loose

The central “slip stitch” motion of the herringbone double crochet stitch can be a tension troublemaker.

• If Your Loops Are Too Tight: You’re likely pulling the yarn too hard after you pull through the first loop. This is a very common issue. The fabric will feel stiff, and it will be a real struggle to insert your hook into the stitches of the next row.

  Solution: Make a conscious effort to relax your grip on both the hook and the working yarn. When you pull the first loop through the second, do it gently. As mentioned in the Pro Tips section, going up a hook size can work wonders to force you to create larger, looser loops. [13]

• If Your Loops Are Too Loose: Your fabric may look a bit sloppy, and the beautiful stitch definition of the herringbone pattern might be lost.

  Solution: This is less common, but if it happens, focus on keeping the working yarn taut (but not tight) as it feeds over your finger. Try to make your movements more compact and controlled. You could even try going down a hook size to help tighten things up.

Remember, creating a practice swatch is the perfect, low-pressure way to work out these kinks and find a comfortable, consistent tension before starting a large project.

Quick Takeaways

• Unique Texture: The herringbone double crochet stitch creates a beautiful, dense, woven-like fabric with a distinctive zig-zag pattern.
• Completely Reversible: The stitch looks identical on both sides, making it perfect for projects like blankets, scarves, and dishcloths where both sides are visible. [2]
• The Key Motion: The signature look comes from pulling the first loop you make through the second loop on the hook, similar to a slip stitch. [1]
• No Special Multiples: You can start your foundation chain with any number of stitches, making it easy to customize project sizes.
• Manage Your Tension: This stitch can become tight. Keep a relaxed tension or go up a hook size to ensure a good drape and make the stitch easier to work. [13]
• Count Your Stitches: To keep your edges straight, be diligent about counting your stitches on every row, paying special attention to the first and last stitches.
• Versatile for Projects: It’s an excellent choice for cozy blankets, stylish accessories, and durable home decor items. [24]

Conclusion: Embrace the Beauty of the Herringbone Stitch

The herringbone double crochet stitch is more than just a variation; it’s an enhancement. It takes the height and speed of a standard double crochet and infuses it with unparalleled texture, warmth, and elegance. By mastering the unique rhythm of its pull-through motion, you unlock the ability to create stunning, professional-quality items that are as durable as they are beautiful. The dense, reversible fabric it produces is a practical and stylish solution for countless projects, from a cherished baby blanket to a sophisticated table runner.

We’ve walked through every step, from choosing the right tools and understanding the technique to troubleshooting common issues and exploring project ideas. You now have all the knowledge you need to confidently tackle this amazing stitch. The journey of crochet is one of constant learning and discovery, and adding the herringbone double crochet stitch to your skillset is a significant and rewarding step. So, pick up your hook, choose a yarn that inspires you, and start a small swatch. Allow yourself to get lost in the meditative flow of the stitches and watch as the beautiful herringbone pattern emerges before your eyes. You’re not just making stitches; you’re creating texture, warmth, and art.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the herringbone double crochet stitch good for beginners?

Yes, it can be! If you are already comfortable with the basic double crochet stitch, the herringbone double crochet stitch is a great next step. The motions might feel a bit unusual at first, but the stitch itself is a simple one-row repeat that is easy to memorize.

2. What is the difference between herringbone double crochet and herringbone half double crochet?

The main difference is height and the number of steps. The herringbone double crochet stitch is taller and involves more “yarn over, pull through” motions, making it work up faster for larger projects. The herringbone half double crochet (HHDC) is shorter and creates a slightly different, more compact texture. [38]

3. Can I use the herringbone double crochet stitch for a blanket?

Absolutely! A herringbone double crochet blanket is one of the most popular projects for this stitch. It creates a warm, dense, and beautifully textured fabric that is also reversible, which is perfect for a throw. [30]

4. How do I keep my edges straight when using this stitch?

The best ways to keep your edges straight are to count your stitches in every row and to be consistent with your turning chain method. Many crocheters find success with a “chain 2, turn” and working into the very first stitch. [27] Using a stitch marker in the first and last stitch can also be very helpful. [19]

5. Why does my herringbone double crochet look different from the pictures?

This usually comes down to tension. If your stitches are too tight, the pattern may look compressed. If they are too loose, the stitch definition can be lost. Try making a swatch and experimenting with your tension or changing your hook size until you achieve a look you love. [13]

Join the Conversation!

I hope you found this tutorial helpful and feel inspired to try the beautiful herringbone double crochet stitch! What project are you dreaming of making with it? Share your ideas or any questions you still have in the comments below. I love hearing from you! If you enjoyed this guide, please consider sharing it with your fellow crochet lovers on social media.

References

1. Dora Does. (2019, July 12). Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch Tutorial.
2. Spotted Horse Design Co. How to Herringbone Double Crochet – Free Tutorial.
3. Knit And Crochet Ever After. (n.d.). How to Crochet – The Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch.
4. Daisy Cottage Designs. (2022, July 25). How to Herringbone Double Crochet (& a Dishcloth Pattern).
5. B.Hooked Crochet & Knitting. (2019, May 4). Herringbone Double Crochet Stitch.

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