How to Crochet a Dish Towel with Half Double Crochet Stitch

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Create the foundation chain

Begin with a slip knot and chain 15 stitches — or a multiple of 3 plus 2 for a different width. The 15-chain foundation gives a compact dish towel that works up quickly; chain more for a wider towel. Cotton yarn is the best choice here as it is naturally absorbent, holds its shape after washing, and softens with use. Keep your foundation chain tension relaxed and even — tight chains make the first row harder to work into. Count your chains carefully before beginning row 1, as getting the count right from the start keeps the stitch pattern consistent all the way to the top edge.

Step 2 — Work round 1 with sc and hdc

Working into the second chain from the hook, alternate one single crochet (sc) and one half double crochet (hdc) across the entire foundation chain. To work a half double crochet: yarn over, insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through all 3 loops in one motion. This single pull-through of all three loops is what distinguishes the hdc from the double crochet and gives it a slightly different texture and height. Continue alternating sc and hdc all the way across, then slip stitch into the top of the starting chain to close the round. Repeat this round until the towel reaches your desired width, turning at the end of each pass.

Step 3 — Build the body rows

Chain 3 at the start of the next row — this counts as your first double crochet. Then work the row pattern: chain 2, hdc in the next stitch, chain 1, skip the next stitch, hdc in the following stitch, chain 1, skip the next stitch, hdc in the following stitch. Repeat this sequence across the row, then turn. Continue repeating this row until the towel reaches your desired height, remembering to end with a row of single crochet to give the top edge a clean, consistent finish that matches the foundation edge. The alternating hdc and chain spaces build up quickly and give the towel body without making it stiff or heavy.

Step 4 — Weave in all ends

Once the towel has reached its finished size, fasten off by cutting a yarn tail of around 15cm and pulling it through the final loop to secure it. Thread the tail onto a tapestry needle and weave it through several stitches in two directions so it cannot pull free with washing or use. Trim close to the fabric once secure. Weave in the starting slip knot tail and any other loose ends from yarn joins in the same way. Pay attention to the edges where row ends sit — these often have small loops that can work loose if not anchored properly. A clean weave-in finish is especially important for kitchen cloths that will be washed repeatedly.

Step 5 — Add optional embellishments

Once all ends are woven in and trimmed, the dish towel is ready to use as-is — or you can personalise it with embellishments. Sew a button near one corner for a decorative touch or to allow the towel to hang from an oven rail. Add a strip of lace along one edge for a cottage-style finish. Embroidered initials or small appliqués also work well. Whatever you add, make sure it is securely attached and that any thread or yarn used for embellishment can withstand the same washing conditions as the towel itself. Crocheted dish towels with simple embellishments make excellent handmade gifts.

Frequently asked questions

What materials do I need to crochet a half double crochet dish towel?
You will need soft absorbent cotton yarn, a crochet hook sized to match your yarn's suggested gauge, scissors, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and optionally buttons or lace for embellishment.

What yarn works best for a crochet dish towel?
A soft, absorbent cotton yarn is the best choice for dish towels and washcloths. Cotton is naturally absorbent, holds its shape after washing, and becomes softer with use. Avoid acrylic yarns for kitchen cloths as they are less absorbent and can feel scratchy against dishes.

Can I embellish my crocheted dish towel?
Yes — once the towel is complete and all ends are woven in, you can add buttons, lace trim, or other decorative elements to personalise it. Embellishments make crocheted dish towels a lovely handmade gift. Just make sure any additions are securely attached and can withstand regular washing.

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