Looking for a stitch that’s textural, stretchy, and quick to learn? The Herringbone Double Crochet is a gorgeous stitch that creates a diagonal, woven look in your fabric — perfect for scarves, blankets, cowls, and comfy sweaters.

It looks a bit like a woven basket or knit fabric, but don’t worry! It’s actually easier than it looks. Once you understand the rhythm, you’ll be cruising through rows with confidence.

Let’s unravel it step by step!

What You’ll Need

Before you begin:

• Yarn: Any weight you like! Worsted weight yarn (#4) is great for learning the stitch.
  
  

• Hook: Use the size recommended for your yarn (often 5 mm for worsted).
  
  

• Scissors
  
  

• Yarn Needle for weaving in ends
  
  

Stitches & Abbreviations (US Terms)

Here’s the language we’ll be using:

• ch = chain
  
  

• hdc = half double crochet
  
  

• hbdc = herringbone half double crochet (another name for this stitch)
  
  

• st(s) = stitch(es)
  
  

How to Crochet the Herringbone Double Crochet

 Row 1: The First Herringbone Row

1. Start with a foundation chain — make it as long as you like.
   
   

2. Begin in the 3rd chain from the hook.
   
   

3. Yarn over (YO)
   

   

4. Insert your hook into the chain.
   

   

5. YO and pull up a loop — now you have 3 loops on your hook.
   

   

6. Here’s where the magic happens: pull that loop directly through the first loop on your hook.
   

   

7. YO and pull through 1 loop.
   

   

8. YO again and pull through the remaining 2 loops.
   

   

That’s your first Herringbone Double Crochet stitch!

Repeat steps 3–8 in each chain across the row. At the end, chain 2 and turn your work.

Row 2: Keep That Slanted Texture Going

1. Start in the very first stitch.
   
   

2. Repeat the exact same steps as Row 1:
   
   

• YO
  
  

• Insert hook
  
  

• YO, pull up a loop
  
  

• Pull that loop through the first loop
  
  

• YO, pull through 1
  
  

• YO, pull through the final 2 loops
  
  

3. Continue this across the row.
   
   

4. At the end of the row, ch 2 and turn.
   
   

Repeat Row 2 for as many rows as your heart desires!

Tips to Make It Easy

• Keep your tension even — that extra twist can feel snug at first.
  
  

• Chain 2 at the start of each row — this keeps height consistent and edges neat.
  
  

• If it feels awkward at first, practice on a small swatch until it feels natural.

What to Make With the Herringbone Stitch

This stitch is beautifully bold yet wearable, and works wonderfully in:

• Textured blankets & throws
  
  

• Sublime scarves and cowls
  
  

• Cozy beanies and hats
  
  

• Sweater panels with subtle detail
  
  

• Bags & totes that hold structure
  
  

Because it’s a bit more dense than a regular half double crochet, it’s especially great when you want substance and texture without large gaps.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to crochet the herringbone double crochet, you’ve unlocked one of crochet’s best kept secrets — a stitch that looks rich and woven but is totally doable!

Go ahead, grab your yarn and hook, and let the herringbone magic begin. Your next cozy project is just a stitch away!