How To Decrease in Crocheting – Simple Guide For Beginners
Crocheting allows us to create tons of beautiful things. However, if you want to be able to craft items in all their shapes and structures, you need to know how to decrease. This technique will help you form your projects, like hats, sleeves, and other pieces that require shaping. Keep reading to learn how to decrease in crochet!
You may also like How To Make A Magic Ring In Crochet or 5 Simple Steps To Learn How To Crochet A Granny Square.
What is Decreasing in Crochet
In crocheting, decreasing means reducing the number of stitches in a row. Along with crochet increases, it’s an essential shaping technique with which you can shape your project.
Why Decreasing is Important in Crocheting
By using decreases you can give your crochet projects the right shape and ensure the perfect fit. Whether you’re making a hat that narrows at the top or a sweater sleeve that tapers, knowing how to decrease stitches will help you achieve the desired form.
The Most Common Types of Decreases
There are various ways to decrease stitches in crocheting. The most common types include:
- Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog)
- Double Crochet Decrease (dc2tog)
- Half Double Crochet Decrease (hdc2tog)
photo source: yourcrochet.com
How Do I Decrease In Crochet
The best way to learn how to crochet a decrease is by following a beginner-friendly video tutorial and written instructions. Below I gathered for you the best crochet resources with which you can start practicing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create your first decreases.
Single Crochet Decrease
- Insert your hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Insert your hook into the following stitch, yarn over, and pull up another loop.
- Yarn over once more and pull through all three loops on the hook.
Easy-To-Follow Video Tutorial
This easy video guide has everything you need to learn the most basic crochet decreases.
prepared by Crochetpedia
Check out this comprehensive guide with tips and tricks for a full crochet insight:
Invisible decrease crochet
An invisible decrease is a technique to make your decreases less noticeable and smoother. This method reduces bulk and helps the decrease blend seamlessly with the rest of your work, giving your project a cleaner finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these common mistakes when decreasing in crochet to keep your projects looking their best:
- Not counting stitches properly can lead to uneven decreases.
- Pulling the yarn too tightly or loosely can affect the shape of your project.
- Not following the pattern can result in incorrect decreases.
Avoiding these errors will help you maintain the right shape and professional look of your crochet items.
Conclusion
Decreasing is an essential skill for shaping your projects. By learning to decrease stitches you will create better-fitted and more polished finished pieces in garments, toys, and accessories.
FAQ
What is a Crochet Decrease?
A crochet decrease is when you combine two or more stitches into one. This reduces the total number of stitches and helps create shapes or patterns in your project.
Why Do I Need to Decrease Stitches in Crochet?
Decreasing stitches is crucial for shaping your crochet projects. Crocheters use it to make items like hats, sleeves, and other pieces that need to taper or have specific contours.
What Are Common Types of Crochet Decreases?
Common types of decreases include single crochet decrease (sc2tog), half double crochet decrease (hdc2tog), and double crochet decrease (dc2tog). The type you use depends on the stitch pattern and project requirements.
What is an Invisible Decrease in Crochet?
An invisible decrease is a technique that makes the decrease less noticeable, creating a smoother and more seamless appearance. Crocheters often use it in projects like amigurumi where a clean finish is important.
How Do I Avoid Common Mistakes When Decreasing in Crochet?
To avoid mistakes, count your stitches accurately, maintain consistent tension, and follow the pattern instructions carefully. Using stitch markers can also help keep track of your decreases.
Can Decreases Be Made in All Types of Crochet Stitches?
You can make decreases in all basic crochet stitches. These include single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, and treble crochet. Each type has its specific method for decreasing.
What Are the Abbreviations Used for Decreases in Crochet Patterns?
Common abbreviations for decreases include “dec” for decrease, “tog” for together, and specific stitch decreases like “sc2tog” for single crochet two together.
