Crochet Pattern
Posted by :
Stoutomaster
4.95 (142 reviews)
Updated Aug 2026
Easy Crochet Throw – Alternating SC & HDC Stitch Blanket Pattern
This Half Double Crochet Stitch Throw Pattern using Basic Alternating Single Crochet stitches is exactly the crochet blanket you need.
This simple stitch combo, alternating rows of single crochet (sc) and half double crochet (hdc), creates a soft, flat, and subtly textured fabric that looks clean and modern. Whether you’re crafting a throw for your living room, a gift for a friend, or your very first blanket, this pattern is easy to memorize, gentle on the hands, and offers plenty of creative room for color play.
HOOK
5mm Standard Crochet Hook
YARN
Worsted Yarn
Wool Acrylic Blend Yarns
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INTRODUCTION
About This Pattern
- Introduction
- Color Ideas
- Sizing
- Materials
- Pattern Instruction
- Construction Overview
- Pattern Notes
- Blanket Resize guide
- Free Throw Pattern
- FAQ
- Get PDF Pattern Book
This Half Double Crochet Stitch Throw Pattern using Basic Alternating Single Crochet stitches is exactly the crochet blanket you need.
This simple stitch combo, alternating rows of single crochet (sc) and half double crochet (hdc), creates a soft, flat, and subtly textured fabric that looks clean and modern. Whether you’re crafting a throw for your living room, a gift for a friend, or your very first blanket, this pattern is easy to memorize, gentle on the hands, and offers plenty of creative room for color play.
Pattern Details
- Pattern Name:HDC/SC Easy Crochet Throw
- Items in Pattern Collection:
Color Brings It to Life
What makes this basic alternating single crochet and half double crochet throw pattern extra special is how well it showcases color.
Try:
- Two-tone color blocks for a modern look
- Striped sections using scraps or leftover yarn
- Ombre or gradient yarn cakes for effortless blending
- Bold solids for a minimalist, contemporary style
This is the kind of pattern you’ll come back to again and again because it adapts to every season, occasion, and color palette.
COMPLETE PROJECT INVENTORY
Materials, Yardage Breakdown & Fiber Selection
Engineered for stash-busting joy or a disciplined heirloom palette. Every yardage estimate includes our recommended 10% tension buffer so you never run out on round 6 of the final corner.
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MAKER STUDIO LAB
Interactive Yarn & Sizing Calculator
Planning a custom baby blanket, lapghan, or super king bedspread? Adjust dimensions below to instantly calculate square counts, skeins needed, and total meters with our built-in yarn tension buffer.
PDF STORES
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20 Beautiful Crochet Blanket Stitch Patterns Using Half Double Crochet
Get Your HDC Stitchbook Today!
Downloadable Stitchbook includes:
- 20 half double crochet stitch patterns
- Each stitch is great for blankets, throws, pillows, scarves, and more
- Easy to advanced skill levels
- Customizable instructions for any blanket size
You'll also get essential tools and guides, such as:
- A full list of standard crochet blanket sizes
- Yarn and material recommendations
- A guide to swatching and stitch counting
- Easy table for adjusting stitch counts
- Clear instructions for color changes and edging
- Step-by-step foundation row guidance
- Terminology and stitch instructions for every pattern
Discover 20 beautiful half double crochet stitch patterns perfect for blankets, pillows, scarves, and more designed for all skill levels. Start stitching smarter and more creatively today!
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NOTES
Pattern Notes
Pattern Notes
- Chain must be an even number
- Turning chain counts as first stitch in HDC rows
- Maintain consistent tension for best results
- Pattern is easily adjustable in width and length
- Works well with solid, striped, or gradient yarns
LAYOUTS
Construction Guide
RESIZING
Resizing & Border Guide
Throw Blanket Size & Adjustments
A standard throw blanket typically measures around 50" x 60" (127 x 152 cm). You can customize your size easily:
Foundation Chain:
Choose any even number of stitches (e.g., 100, 120, 140) based on your desired width.
Gauge Swatch:
- Chain 20
- Work 10 rows alternating sc and hdc
- Measure the width
- Multiply that width to get your total starting chain for a 50"–60" wide throw
Length
Repeat your alternating rows until your throw is about 60" long. Add or reduce rows as needed.
Blanket Resize Guide
| Size | Width | Starting Chain |
|---|---|---|
| Baby | 30" | 80–100 |
| Throw | 50" | 110–140 |
| Twin | 63" | 290 |
| King | 108" | 398 |
RESIZING
Written Instructions
Pattern Instructions
Before you start your blanket, it’s important to decide what size you want to make, and make sure your foundation chain will give you the right width.
Step 1: Choose your blanket size
Decide on the finished size you want. Are you making a lap blanket, a throw, or a full bed-sized blanket, like twin, queen, or king ?
Step 2 : Make a gauge swatch
A gauge swatch helps you figure out how many stitches you need for your specific yarn and hook. Here's how:
1. Chain 12 stitches.
2. Work 6 rows of half double crochet (hdc), with 1 hdc in each stitch.
3. Fasten off and measure the width of the swatch.
Step 3: Calculate your starting chain using the size swatch
Once you know how wide your swatch is, use the chart below to find out how many chains you need for your chosen blanket size.
Example Starting Chains Based on Gauge Swatch
Gauge Swatch Width : 2.5" / 6.3 cm
- Blanket Size : Twin
- Approx. Dimensions (cm/in) : 63" x 95" / 160 x 240 cm
- Starting Chain : 290 chains
Gauge Swatch Width : 3" / 7.6 cm
- Blanket Size : King
- Approx. Dimensions (cm/in) : 108" x 100" / 275 x 255 cm
- Starting Chain : 398 chains
These sizes do not include a border. Your final size may vary slightly depending on your personal tension and crochet style.
If you're using a larger hook or thicker yarn, you may want to:
- Make a larger gauge swatch
- Adjust your chain count using the chart
- Or make two smaller blankets instead of one large one
This will help keep your blanket comfortable and not too bulky.
Once you've figured out your starting chain, it's time to begin your blanket!
STITCHES
Quick Stitch Guide
.
US Stitch Terminology : Abbreviations
-
Chain Stitch - ch
-
Half Double Crochet - hdc
-
Next - nxt
-
Single Crochet - sc
-
Slip Stitch - sl st
-
Yarn Over - yo
All stitch instructions are available in both US Crochet Terminology and UK Crochet Terminology, making it easy to follow along using the terms you are most familiar with.
If you are new to any of the stitches used in this pattern, we recommend reviewing the relevant stitch guide before starting. Each guide includes step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and stitch terminology conversions where applicable.
Take your time, practice any unfamiliar stitches, and most importantly—enjoy the process of creating your blanket one row at a time.
Foundation Row -
UK : -
AFR : - Fondasie Ry
UK : -
AFR : - Fondasie Ry
PATTERN STORES
Upgrade to PDF Pattern
.
FREE PATTERN
Step by Step
.
1
Easy Crochet Free Throw Pattern – Alternating SC & HDC Stitch Blanket Pattern
How to make your blanket foundation row.
- Make a slip knot on your hook.
- Chain the number of stitches needed for your blanket size.
- Add 2 extra chains , these are your turning chains.
- Work 1 half double crochet (hdc) into the 3rd chain from the hook.
- Continue with 1 hdc into each chain until the end of the row.
That’s your first row done! You can now simply follow the rest of the pattern as indicated below, alongside the switch diagram
Stitches
- ch2 = chain 2 - make 2 chain stitches
- hdc = half double crochet
- sc = single crochet
- sk = skip - skip stitch
- sk2 = skip 2 stitches st = single stitch
Row 1 : ch2, * 1hdc into hdc st, repeat from * until the end of the row.
Row 2 : 1 sc, * 1sc into hdc st, repeat from * until the end of the row.
Repeat rows 1 + 2 for the remainder of the blanket length.
kill levels. Start stitching smarter and more creatively today!
Love Half Double Crochet Stitches ?
Try out this Fun Temperature Blanket with 30+ Mixed Crochet Half Double Crochet Stitches
- Crochet one row a day to represent the temperature and mood of each day (365/366 rows).
- Beginner-friendly design with clear written instructions and stitch diagrams.
- Stay organized all year with a printable temperature blanket journal, calendar, and color swatches.
- Easily resize your blanket with a chart for Twin, Queen, King, or King XL sizes.
- Made for DK yarn with recommended yarn, hook details, and a gauge guide included.
- Create a meaningful memory blanket for a year, anniversary, birthday, or special milestone.
⚠️ This pattern is for personal use only. Please do not copy or redistribute.
NOTICE
Pattern Update Notice
Previous buyers can request an updated PDF, or use the free instructions on this page.
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Pattern Copyright & Usage
This crochet pattern and all associated content are the original work of Stouto Crochet.
- ✔️ Personal use allowed
- ✔️ Sell finished handmade items (small-scale)
- ❌ Do not copy, rewrite, or redistribute
- ❌ Do not share or resell PDF patterns
AI & Content Use: This pattern may not be reproduced or used to train AI systems.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
.
This pattern alternates two of the most basic stitches in crochet: single crochet (sc) and half double crochet (hdc). By switching between sc and hdc across each row (or in some cases, every other row), you create a soft and stretchy fabric with subtle texture and visual interest.
This technique is easy enough for beginners to pick up but still offers a polished finish that can look more advanced. It's an ideal stitch pattern for making throws, baby blankets, scarves, and more. The best part is how versatile it is, you can keep the look minimal with one solid color or add playful stripes and blocks with different yarns.
Yes, it's excellent for beginners! Both single crochet and half double crochet are foundational stitches in crochet. This pattern gives you the chance to practice both while creating something beautiful and useful. The repeat is simple and easy to remember, making it perfect for relaxing crochet sessions, travel projects, or working in front of the TV. If you're just starting out, this project helps you learn how stitch height affects fabric texture and drape. It also forgives slight tension changes that are less noticeable than in more complex stitch patterns.
To crochet a blanket using alternating sc and hdc stitches, you start with a foundation chain in an even number. Then, work one sc in the first stitch, one hdc in the next, and continue alternating across the row. Each following row simply continues the same pattern: sc in the first stitch, hdc in the next, repeating to the end.
The consistency of alternating creates a rhythmic, meditative pattern that's easy to track and great for any size project. You’ll end up with a dense but stretchy fabric that lays flat and shows off color changes beautifully.
This stitch combination creates a texture that is both structured and flexible. The shorter single crochet stitches add tightness and stability, while the taller half double crochets give the blanket more flow and softness. The result is a slightly ridged surface with just the right amount of texture, not too bumpy and not too plain.
It also lays very flat, which is great for throws and baby blankets. When worked in colorful yarn or stripes, the texture catches the light beautifully and gives a tactile, cozy feel.
Yes, this stitch pattern is perfect for a baby blanket. It creates a soft, slightly stretchy fabric that is both warm and breathable. Use a baby-friendly yarn like soft acrylic, bamboo blends, or cotton for the best results. You can customize your blanket in soft pastels or bold brights depending on the theme. Plus, the simple texture is safe for babies, no large holes or raised stitches that little fingers can get stuck in. It's also machine washable when made with the right yarn, which makes it a favorite choice for parents.
To start, you’ll need an even number of stitches in your foundation chain. For a standard throw size (around 50" wide), this could be anywhere between 110–140 chains, depending on your yarn, hook size, and gauge. Always start by making a small swatch, 20 stitches wide by 10 rows high, to measure your stitch width. Then multiply that by the width you want. Since this stitch pattern doesn’t require a multiple beyond an even count, you have flexibility when adjusting for size.
One of the best features of this stitch combo is that it stays flat naturally. Unlike patterns that rely heavily on taller stitches or skipping chains, the sc/hdc pattern has a balanced structure that resists curling. This makes it perfect for blankets, especially when you want a clean edge without needing a heavy border. However, always make sure your tension is even and that you’re not pulling your chain row too tight. Adding a simple border in a single crochet helps maintain structure over time.
Worsted weight (category 4) yarn is ideal for this pattern, it gives the throw a good balance between warmth and drape. Choose a soft, washable yarn like Red Heart Soft, Caron Simply Soft, Paintbox Yarns, or Lion Brand Basic Stitch. Cotton-blend yarns also work beautifully for a slightly lighter, breathable throw. For added interest, try self-striping yarns or color-change cakes like Mandala or Ombre-style yarns to let the yarn do the colorwork for you.
Each row consists of a repeating sequence of sc and hdc stitches, so the texture looks uniform. To count rows accurately, look for the turning chains or use stitch markers every 10 rows. Another tip is to track rows in a notebook or tally app, especially if you're alternating colors. Since both stitches are similar in height, the rows blend smoothly but the edge of your blanket will have a neat, even line of stitches that can be easily counted when laid flat.
Time depends on the size of your blanket, your yarn weight, and your crochet speed. A standard throw (50" x 60") using worsted weight yarn may take 15–20 hours to complete for most crocheters. Because the stitch pattern is repetitive and easy, it’s perfect for working in short sessions over a week or two.
Using thicker yarn or a larger hook can cut the time significantly. It's also great as a stash buster since you can pick up where you left off without re-learning a complex pattern.
