If you’re a crochet enthusiast, you know that decreasing stitches is an essential technique for shaping your projects. Whether you’re creating a fitted garment, a cozy blanket, or an intricate amigurumi, decreasing stitches allows you to reduce the size of your fabric gradually and evenly. Mastering this technique will not only elevate your crocheting skills but also open up a world of design possibilities.
Decreasing stitches in crochet involves joining two or more stitches together to form a single stitch. This creates a seamless transition that maintains the integrity of your fabric while altering its dimensions. Numerous methods exist for decreasing stitches, each with its unique characteristics and applications. Some common techniques include single crochet decrease (sc dec), half double crochet decrease (hdc dec), and double crochet decrease (dc dec). Choosing the appropriate decreasing method depends on the desired effect and the stitch pattern you’re working with.
As you embark on your crocheting journey, understanding how to decrease stitches is crucial for achieving precise results and creating visually appealing projects. Decreasing stitches strategically enables you to control the shape, size, and contours of your fabric. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crocheter, mastering this technique will empower you to tackle more complex patterns and bring your creative ideas to life.
Types of Decrease Stitches
Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog)
The single crochet decrease is the most basic decrease stitch. It is used to reduce the number of stitches in a row by one. To work an sc2tog, insert your hook into the first stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Insert your hook into the second stitch, yarn over, and pull through both loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through both loops on your hook again. This will complete the single crochet decrease.
Half Double Crochet Decrease (hdc2tog)
The half double crochet decrease is similar to the single crochet decrease, but it creates a slightly larger hole. To work an hdc2tog, insert your hook into the first stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Insert your hook into the second stitch, yarn over, and pull through both loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops on your hook. This will complete the half double crochet decrease.
Double Crochet Decrease (dc2tog)
The double crochet decrease is the largest of the three basic decrease stitches. It creates a large hole that is perfect for creating lace or openwork patterns. To work a dc2tog, insert your hook into the first stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Insert your hook into the second stitch, yarn over, and pull through both loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through the next two loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops on your hook. This will complete the double crochet decrease.
| Decrease Stitch | Hook Insertion | Yarn Overs | Pull Throughs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog) | 1st and 2nd stitches | 2 | 2 |
| Half Double Crochet Decrease (hdc2tog) | 1st and 2nd stitches | 3 | 3 |
| Double Crochet Decrease (dc2tog) | 1st and 2nd stitches | 4 | 4 |
Slip Stitch Decrease
The slip stitch decrease is a simple and versatile technique that can be used to reduce the number of stitches in your crochet work. It is commonly used to shape garments, create curves, or add decorative details.
To perform a slip stitch decrease, follow these steps:
1. Insert your hook into the first stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
3. Insert your hook into the next stitch.
4. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
5. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the slip stitch decrease process:
- Insert your hook into the first stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop. The loop should be just like a single crochet stitch.
- Insert your hook into the next stitch. This stitch will be skipped.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop. You will now have two loops on your hook.
- Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook. This will complete the slip stitch decrease, and you will have one stitch on your hook.
The slip stitch decrease is a versatile technique that can be used in a variety of ways. It is a great way to add shape and detail to your crochet projects, and it is also a very easy technique to master.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert your hook into the first stitch. |
| 2 | Yarn over and pull up a loop. |
| 3 | Insert your hook into the next stitch. |
| 4 | Yarn over and pull up a loop. |
| 5 | Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook. |
Working Decreases into a Pattern
Crochet patterns often include instructions for decreasing stitches to create a specific shape or design. Here are some tips for working decreases seamlessly into a pattern:
Maintain Tension
It’s crucial to maintain even tension throughout the decreasing process to ensure a neat and consistent stitch count.
Read Instructions Carefully
Read the pattern instructions thoroughly before attempting any decreases. Note the specific stitches and rows where decreases should be made.
Count Stitches
Keep track of your stitch count as you work the decreases to ensure you’re following the pattern correctly.
Avoid Double Decreases
Unless explicitly stated in the pattern, avoid making double decreases (decreasing two stitches simultaneously) after a single decrease. This can disrupt the stitch count and create unwanted holes or gaps.
Using Markers
Stitch markers can be helpful for marking the stitch where the decrease should be made, especially in complex patterns.
Combining Decreases
Some patterns may combine different types of decreases, such as single crochet (sc) and half double crochet (hdc). Ensure you follow the specific instructions for each type of decrease.
Decreasing at the End of Rows
When decreasing at the end of a row, it’s common to chain 1 and turn before working the next row. This helps maintain the stitch count and prevents gaps.
Diagram for Decreases
Some patterns may provide a diagram or chart that visually illustrates the decrease process. Refer to these guides for clarity.
Types of Decreases
There are several types of decreases used in crochet, each with its own unique method. Here are some common types:
| Decrease Type | Method |
|---|---|
| Single Crochet Decrease (sc dec) | Work two single crochet stitches together as one. |
| Half Double Crochet Decrease (hdc dec) | Work two half double crochet stitches together as one. |
| Double Crochet Decrease (dc dec) | Work two double crochet stitches together as one. |
| Slip Stitch Decrease (sl st dec) | Slip stitch the previous stitch into the current stitch. |
Practicing Decreases
To refine your stitch decrease technique, it’s beneficial to practice on a swatch of scrap yarn. This allows you to experiment with different methods and become comfortable with the process before incorporating it into your actual project. Use a washable yarn that’s similar to the yarn you’ll be using in your project, as this will provide a more accurate representation of how the decreases will look and feel in the final piece.
Start by casting on a chain of approximately 20 stitches. This will give you enough space to practice the decreases without worrying about running out of yarn.
Follow the steps for the desired decrease method, then repeat the same process on the other side of the row to create a symmetrical decrease. Continue practicing until you become proficient and confident with the technique.
Here’s a table summarizing some common stitch decrease methods:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Single crochet decrease (sc2tog) | Decrease two stitches together by working a single crochet into the next two stitches on the hook. |
| Half double crochet decrease (hdc2tog) | Similar to sc2tog, but using a half double crochet stitch instead of a single crochet stitch. |
| Double crochet decrease (dc2tog) | Decrease two stitches together by working a double crochet stitch into the next two stitches on the hook. |
| Slip stitch decrease (sl st dec) | Insert the hook into the first stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull through both loops on the hook. |
How to Decrease Stitches in Crochet
Decreasing stitches in crochet is a technique used to reduce the number of stitches in a row, shaping the fabric and creating specific designs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to decrease stitches in crochet:
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Single Crochet Decrease (scdec): Insert your hook into the next stitch and yarn over. Yarn over again and pull through the first two loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops on your hook.
-
Half Double Crochet Decrease (hdcdec): Yarn over your hook and insert it into the next stitch. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook. Yarn over again and insert your hook into the next stitch. Yarn over and pull through both loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook.
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Double Crochet Decrease (dcdec): Yarn over your hook and insert it into the next stitch. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook. Yarn over again and insert your hook into the next stitch. Yarn over and pull through both loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through two loops on your hook. Finally, yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops on your hook.
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Slip Stitch Decrease (ssdec): Insert your hook into the next stitch and yarn over. Insert your hook into the next stitch and yarn over. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook.
People Also Ask About How to Decrease Stitches in Crochet
Can you decrease stitches at the beginning of a row?
Yes, you can decrease stitches at the beginning of a row by working into the back loop of the first stitch and completing the decrease as usual.
Is there a way to invisibly decrease stitches?
Yes, you can use the “invisible decrease” technique where you work the decrease into the space between stitches, creating a seamless join.
What is a Bobble Decrease?
A Bobble Decrease is a decorative decrease that creates a raised, textured effect. It involves working multiple stitches into the same stitch and then decreasing them together.
