How to Crochet the Half Double Slip Stitch (aka Yarn Over Slip Stitch)
This post includes affiliate links.
This is a free tutorial for a very special crochet stitch that looks like knit. This half double slip stitch tutorial has both step-by-step photos and a video tutorial. You may also sometimes see this stitch referred to as the yarn over slip stitch.
Of course, I love crochet more than I love knitting, but sometimes I can’t help but admire the way that knitting looks. When I am in the mood to work with a crochet stitch that looks knitted, my go-to is half double slip stitch.
Sure, I guess you could just learn to knit. Or could you follow this blog post and learn this easy crochet stitch instead. Sounds like a great alternative to me!
There are many stitches in crochet that allow you to get a knit-like look, but the yarn over slip stitch is one of my favorites. It creates a beautiful texture that’s also nice and stretchy, so it’s perfect for creating the ribbing on hat brims.
But why stop at just the brim when you could make an entire hat in a stretchy crochet stitch that looks like knit? After you learn how to crochet the half double slip stitch, you can get plenty of practice with it by trying out my free hat pattern linked below.
You can use this stitch for many different types of projects that benefit from a bit of stretch and that you want to look knitted. I can’t wait to see what you come up with using this stitch!
Now, are you ready to learn this fun stitch?

What is Sl St in Crochet?
If you are new to crochet, then you may be scratching your head over what is Sl St in crochet? The abbreviation “Sl St” stands for slip stitch, according to US Crochet Terms. In the UK they use the abbreviation “SS” for slip stitch, but it is still the same stitch.
So what exactly is Sl St in crochet? Let’s walk through it step by step.
- First you insert your hook into the chain or stitch you want to work into
- Then you yarn over and pull that loop through the chain or stitch
- Now pull that loop through the first loop on your hook, so you only have one loop remaining
That’s it! Now that you know what is Sl St in crochet, you are ready to learn about YO Sl St in crochet. Follow along with the video tutorial or the step by step photo tutorial to learn how.
Half Double Slip Stitch (Yarn Over Slip Stitch) – Video Tutorial
This stitch is also known as the Half Double Crochet Slip Stitch.
Subscribe to my Youtube Channel here:
[youtube-subscriber channelID=UCSI4OeQQnxVQEAwMGeTCn1Q layout=full subscribers=default]
How to Crochet Half Double Slip Stitch (Yarn Over Slip Stitch): Step-by-Step Photo Tutorial
Grab your crochet hook (I like to use the WeCrochet Dots hooks) and your yarn (I used a worsted weighted yarn) to learn. If you can’t get enough of knit look crochet stitches, be sure to keep reading after the tutorial for more stitch recommendations.
Pro tip for beginners: hook size doesn’t really matter for this tutorial. Just use whatever size is recommended on the label of the yarn you are using.
Stitches and abbreviations used in the pattern
Learn all the basic crochet stitches HERE (US crochet terms)
- st/sts = stitch/stitches
- ch = chain
- sl st = slip stitch
- hdc = half double crochet
- yo = yarn over
Crochet a Chain
You can make a length of any number of chain stitches that you would like for the foundation chain.

Crocheting the Half Double Slip Stitch
To get started, insert the hook into the second chain from the hook and yarn over.

Now pull the yarn through. Here is where the half double slip stitch differs from from the normal half double crochet stitch.

Now instead of yarning over again, you’ll pull the last loop all the way through the first 2 loops on the hook. You now made a yo sl st.

Easier Way to Crochet the Yarn Over Slip Stitch
If you have trouble pulling the last loop through the first 2 loops, just twist your hook backwards a bit and it pulls through the loops easier.

Finish Crocheting the Half Double Slip Stitch Row
Now continue crocheting this fun and fast stitch until the end of the row. Then turn. You can skip the turning chain if you like to create smoother edges or crochet one turning chain.

This Crochet Stitch Looks Like Knit When Worked into the Blo
In order to create the knit look of the yarn over slip stitch, aka half double crochet slip stitch, simply crochet this stitch in each row in the back loop only (blo). You can see how it creates this beautiful knit look texture that also has a nice stretch.

What Projects can I use the Half Double Slip Stitch for?
This yarn over slip stitch, aka half double crochet slip stitch, would be an ideal stitch for a blanket, hats, scarves, and even cardigans, or any other crochet project you might want to make.
However, if you fancy a quick project just to try and practice this crochet stitch then why not make a simple dishcloth or even a potholder.
I used this gorgeous crochet stitch that looks knitted to make this beautiful Knit Look Crochet Hat. It’s a quick and fun crochet project and I hope you give it a try.

If you have enjoyed this crochet stitch tutorial, be sure to share the link with your crafty friends on social media using the buttons above or below this stitch tutorial. I hope you enjoy it. Thanks for sharing.
More Knit Look Crochet Stitches
The yarn over slip stitch, aka half double crochet slip stitch, is one of many stitches that look like knitting but are actually crocheted.
Here are a few more crochet stitches that also create a knit look:
- slip stitch in the back loop only
- waistcoat stitch
- Tunisian Knit Stitch
- HDC in 3rd loop behind the V

THE CROCHET CLUB – CROCHET PATTERN, TIPS & TUTORIAL VAULT
You can have the most amazing pattern and yarn in the world, but if you don’t have the knowledge on how to crochet in a way that makes you proud, then all your work is for nothing.
Maybe you have a dream of having perfect straight seams or have less yarn to weave in?
Let me introduce you to THE CROCHET CLUB – AN ALL-ACCESS MEMBERSHIP! It is exactly what it says on the tin. If you sign up for the membership I will teach you different techniques and tips on how to improve your crochet projects!
You will get access to all my patterns in PDF formats and full support from myself to guide you through the tricky bits. I will also teach you what YOU want to learn! Join me in THE CROCHET CLUB – AN ALL-ACCESS MEMBERSHIP!
Does getting 8 Crochet Secret Tips delivered straight into your inbox sound like something you would find useful? If so, sign up for my crochet newsletter below. I send out a weekly newsletter packed full of crochet patterns and tutorials.

