How to decrease in crochet

How to decrease in crochet step by step

Written by: Jeff Tse

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Time to read 5 min

Table of content
Introduction Step-by-Step: How to Decrease in Crochet Step 1: Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog) Step 2: Half Double Crochet Decrease (hdc2tog) Step 3: Double Crochet Decrease (dc2tog) Step 4: Treble Crochet Decrease (tr2tog) Understanding the Basics of Decreasing Preparing Your Yarn and Hook Tips for Successful Decreasing Applying Decreases in Different Projects

Introduction

Decreasing in crochet is a fundamental technique that allows you to shape your projects and create intricate designs. Whether you’re crafting a garment, an accessory, or an amigurumi toy, knowing how to decrease will significantly enhance your crochet skills. This technique is essential for creating curves and contours, such as the rounded tops of hats or the tapered ends of sleeves.

At its core, a decrease involves working two stitches together to form a single stitch, effectively reducing the stitch count in your project. This process can be applied to various crochet stitches, including single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet. Each type of stitch has its own method for decreasing, but the basic principle remains the same.

In this guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of decreasing in crochet, providing clear instructions for each stitch type. By mastering these techniques, you’ll be able to add professional-looking shaping to your crochet projects, making them more visually appealing and better fitting. Let’s dive into the world of crochet decreases and learn how to enhance your crafting skills!

💡 Did you know

The most common decrease methods, such as single crochet two together (sc2tog) and double crochet two together (dc2tog), emerged as standard practices to reduce stitch counts effectively. These techniques enable crafters to create rounded shapes, such as the crowns of hats or the bodies of amigurumi. Over time, as patterns and instructional resources became more widely available, the understanding and application of decreases expanded, making it a fundamental skill for both beginners and experienced crocheters alike. Today, mastering decreases is essential for achieving well-fitted and visually appealing crochet projects, showcasing the craft's versatility and creativity.

Step-by-Step: How to Decrease in Crochet

Decreasing in crochet is a fundamental technique that allows you to shape your projects, creating curves and contours essential for garments, toys, and various decorative items. Whether you are crafting a hat, an amigurumi, or a blanket, mastering the art of decreasing will enhance your crochet skills. This guide will provide you with detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to decrease using various crochet stitches, including single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet.

Step 1: Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog)

The single crochet decrease is one of the most common methods used in crochet. Here’s how to do it step by step:

  1. Insert your hook into the first stitch you wish to decrease. Yarn over and pull up a loop. You now have two loops on your hook.
  2. Insert your hook into the next stitch. Yarn over and pull up another loop. You should now have three loops on your hook.
  3. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook. You have successfully decreased one stitch!

Step 2: Half Double Crochet Decrease (hdc2tog)

The half double crochet decrease is similar to the single crochet decrease but involves half double crochet stitches. Follow these steps:

  1. Yarn over and insert your hook into the first stitch. Pull up a loop, so you have three loops on your hook.
  2. Yarn over again and insert your hook into the next stitch. Pull up another loop, giving you five loops on your hook.
  3. Yarn over and pull through all five loops on your hook. You’ve successfully decreased one stitch!
How to decrease in crochet

Step 3: Double Crochet Decrease (dc2tog)

The double crochet decrease can be a bit more complex but is essential for shaping larger projects. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Yarn over and insert your hook into the first stitch. Pull up a loop, resulting in three loops on your hook.
  2. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on your hook, leaving two loops remaining.
  3. Yarn over again and insert your hook into the next stitch. Pull up another loop, giving you four loops on your hook.
  4. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on your hook, leaving three loops remaining.
  5. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook. You’ve successfully decreased one stitch!

Step 4: Treble Crochet Decrease (tr2tog)

For projects that require taller stitches, you may need to use a treble crochet decrease. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Yarn over twice and insert your hook into the first stitch. Pull up a loop; you should have four loops on your hook.
  2. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on your hook, leaving three loops remaining.
  3. Yarn over again and pull through the next two loops, leaving two loops remaining.
  4. Yarn over again and insert your hook into the next stitch. Pull up a loop, bringing your total to five loops on your hook.
  5. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops, leaving four loops remaining.
  6. Yarn over and pull through the next two loops, leaving three loops remaining.
  7. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook. You’ve successfully decreased one stitch!
How to decrease in crochet

Understanding the Basics of Decreasing

Before diving into the specifics, it's important to understand what a decrease is. In crochet, a decrease reduces the number of stitches in a row or round. This is typically done by working two stitches together to form one stitch. Decreases are crucial for shaping items, allowing you to create rounded tops for hats, tapered ends for sleeves, or even the curvy shapes of amigurumi.

Preparing Your Yarn and Hook

Once you've identified the spots where you need to decrease, ensure your yarn and hook are ready:

  • Yarn : Choose a yarn that matches your project. Make sure it’s not too slippery, as this can make it harder to maintain tension during decreases.
  • Hook : Use the appropriate size crochet hook for your yarn weight. The right hook will help you achieve even tension and consistent stitch size.

Tips for Successful Decreasing

  1. Follow the Pattern Instructions : Always adhere to the specific instructions provided in your crochet pattern for decreasing. Different patterns may use different methods or abbreviations.
  2. Mark the Decrease Points : Use stitch markers to indicate where you need to decrease. This helps keep track of your stitches and ensures consistent shaping.
  3. Maintain Even Tension : Be mindful of your tension while decreasing. Keeping your stitches even will help maintain the overall shape and appearance of your project.
  4. Practice on a Swatch : If you’re new to decreasing, practice on a small swatch or project first. This will help you get comfortable with the technique before applying it to a larger project.
  5. Experiment with Different Methods : While the methods described above are commonly used, don’t hesitate to try different techniques to find the one that works best for you.


Applying Decreases in Different Projects

Decreases can be applied in various crochet projects to create shaping and structure. Here are a few examples:


Amigurumi

Decreases are essential for shaping the rounded forms of amigurumi. They are used to define the head, body, and limbs of the toy. Follow the pattern instructions carefully to ensure your amigurumi has the desired shape.


Hats

In hat-making, decreases are used to shape the crown. They are typically worked in the last few rounds of the hat, with the number of decreases increasing in each round to create a tapered shape.


Garments

Decreases are crucial in garment construction to create shaping for the bust, waist, and hips. They also help shape armholes, necklines, and sleeves. Careful placement of decreases is essential for achieving a well-fitting garment.


Blankets and Afghans

Decreases can create interesting shapes and patterns in blankets and afghans. For example, you can use decreases to create a triangular or hexagonal shape or to create a ripple effect by decreasing at regular intervals along the edges.

How to decrease in crochet
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