The Decrease Stitch is a fundamental technique in crochet that allows you to shape your projects by reducing the number of stitches in a specific area. This technique is commonly used to create garments with fitted waistlines, curved edges, and other intricate designs. Mastering the Decrease Stitch will not only enhance your crocheting skills but also open up endless possibilities for creating unique and sophisticated pieces.
There are two main types of Decrease Stitches: the Single Crochet Decrease (SCD) and the Half Double Crochet Decrease (HDCD). The SCD is the simplest and most common method. It involves working two stitches together as one, and it is typically used to create a gradual decrease in the number of stitches. On the other hand, the HCDC is a more pronounced decrease that creates a more noticeable shaping effect. This technique involves working three stitches together as one, and it is often used to create sharp angles or curved edges.
To perform a Decrease Stitch, you will start by working up to the point where the decrease is desired. Then, you will insert your hook into the first stitch and yarn over (YO). Next, insert your hook into the second stitch and YO again. Draw the yarn through the first stitch and then through both strands on your hook to form a single stitch. This completes the SCD. For the HCDC, you will repeat this process, but you will insert your hook into three stitches instead of two. Once the decrease is complete, you can continue working your pattern as usual. With practice, you will master the Decrease Stitch and be able to use it to create beautiful and unique crocheted projects.
Understanding the Decrease Stitch
The decrease stitch is a fundamental technique in crochet that allows you to reduce the number of stitches in a row. This stitch is essential for shaping your crochet projects, such as creating tapers, curves, and angles. Understanding the concept of the decrease stitch is crucial before attempting more advanced crochet patterns.
The decrease stitch involves working two stitches together as one. There are two main types of decrease stitches: the single crochet decrease (scdec) and the double crochet decrease (dcdec). The scdec is used for single crochet stitches, while the dcdec is used for double crochet stitches.
To perform a single crochet decrease, you work two single crochet stitches into the same stitch. To do this:
- Insert your hook into the first stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook.
- Insert your hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook.
This will reduce the number of stitches in the row by one. The double crochet decrease follows a similar pattern but involves working two double crochet stitches into the same stitch.
Identifying the Last Two Stitches
To decrease a stitch, the first crucial step is to identify the last two stitches on the hook. Crochet patterns often instruct you to “work the last two stitches together.”
Tips for Identifying the Last Two Stitches:
- Count the stitches on the hook: Typically, a single crochet stitch has one loop on the hook, while a double crochet stitch has two loops.
- Identify the “big” loop: Often, the last loop on the hook will be larger or slightly elongated compared to the others.
- Visualize the hook: Imagine a “C” shape. The “open” end of the C represents the last stitch, and the “closed” end represents the stitch before it.
- Use a stitch marker: If you have difficulty identifying the last two stitches, place a stitch marker on the second-to-last stitch to help you keep track.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Count the stitches | Count the number of loops on the hook to determine the last two stitches. |
| Identify the “big” loop | Look for the larger or elongated loop, which typically indicates the last stitch. |
| Visualize the hook | Imagine a “C” shape on the hook, with the open end representing the last stitch. |
| Use a stitch marker | Place a stitch marker on the second-to-last stitch to help you keep track. |
Inserting the Hook
This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the decrease stitch. Begin by inserting your crochet hook into the first stitch of the two stitches you want to decrease.
1. Yarn Over
Wrap the yarn over the hook from back to front. This will create a loop on the hook.
2. Hook the Second Stitch
Insert the hook into the second stitch of the two you want to decrease. Yarn over again and draw up a loop from this second stitch. You now have two loops on the hook.
3. Yarn Over and Draw Through Both Loops
This step requires careful attention and involves the following precise actions:
a. Yarn over once more, creating a third loop on the hook.
b. Pull this third loop through the first two loops on the hook. This will create a new single loop.
c. Yarn over again and draw the final loop through the remaining loop on the hook. This completes the decrease stitch.
The result is a single stitch that replaces the two original stitches, reducing the number of stitches in your row.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Yarn over |
| 2 | Hook second stitch and yarn over |
| 3 | Yarn over and draw through both loops |
Drawing Through the First Loop
Step 4: Insert the Hook Through the First Loop
With the yarn over and the hook in the same hand, carefully insert the hook back through the first loop on the hook. This loop is the one created in Step 3 when you pulled up the yarn through the stitch.
Tips for Inserting the Hook:
- Ensure the hook tip is pointing towards the back of the work.
- Insert the hook into the far side of the loop, closest to the hook.
- Avoid splitting the yarn or catching other loops.
- Visualize drawing the hook through the space where the original loop was.
Common Mistakes:
| Mistake | Correction |
|---|---|
| Inserting the hook into the wrong side of the loop | Reposition the hook and insert it into the far side of the loop. |
| Splitting the yarn | Use a smaller hook size or adjust your tension to prevent splitting. |
| Catching other loops | Be mindful of the hook placement and ensure it is only inserted into the intended loop. |
Drawing Through Both Loops
To decrease through both loops, follow these steps:
- Insert your hook into the first stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Insert your hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over and pull up another loop.
- Yarn over again and draw the loop through all three loops on your hook.
- Chain 1 to secure the stitch.
**Tip:** When you are drawing through all three loops on your hook, be sure to pull the yarn through the back loops of the stitches. This will create a neat and even decrease.
Decreasing for Right-Handers
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the hook into the next stitch from back to front (away from you). |
| 2 | Yarn over and pull up a loop. |
| 3 | Insert the hook into the next stitch from left to right. |
| 4 | Yarn over and pull up a loop. |
| 5 | Yarn over and draw the loop through the back loops of ALL loops on the hook. |
| 6 | Yarn over and draw the loop through the remaining two loops on the hook. |
| 7 | Ch 1 to secure the stitch. |
Finishing the Decrease
6. Complete the Decrease Stitch:
This final step involves working the yarn over the hook and pulling it through both loops on the hook to complete the decrease stitch. To do this:
- Insert the hook into the next stitch on the left-hand needle.
- Yarn over the hook (yo).
- Draw the yarn through the stitch on the hook (draw through 1).
- Yarn over the hook again (yo).
- Draw the yarn through both loops on the hook (draw through 2).
- You now have one stitch on the hook, representing the completed decrease stitch.
You can repeat steps 3-5 as many times as necessary to create your desired number of decrease stitches.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert hook into the next stitch on the left-hand needle |
| 2 | Yarn over the hook (yo) |
| 3 | Draw the yarn through the stitch on the hook (draw through 1) |
| 4 | Yarn over the hook again (yo) |
| 5 | Draw the yarn through both loops on the hook (draw through 2) |
| 6 | You now have one stitch on the hook, representing the completed decrease stitch |
Types of Decrease Stitches
Single Crochet Decrease (SC2TOG)
This basic decrease stitch is commonly used in crochet patterns to shape the fabric. To perform SC2TOG, insert the hook into the next two stitches simultaneously, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on the hook, creating one stitch.
Half Double Crochet Decrease (HDC2TOG)
HDC2TOG is a versatile decrease stitch that creates a slightly sloping edge. Insert the hook into the next two stitches, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Yarn over again and pull through the first two loops on the hook. Yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops on the hook, creating one stitch.
Double Crochet Decrease (DC2TOG)
DC2TOG yields a more pronounced decrease than SC2TOG or HDC2TOG. Insert the hook into the next two stitches, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Repeat this step twice more, creating three loops on the hook. Yarn over again and pull through all four loops on the hook, creating one stitch.
Treble Crochet Decrease (TR2TOG)
TR2TOG is used to create a significant decrease in the fabric. Insert the hook into the next two stitches, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Repeat this step twice more, creating four loops on the hook. Yarn over again and pull through the first two loops on the hook. Repeat this step twice more, pulling through the remaining loops and creating one stitch.
Slip Stitch Decrease (SLST2TOG)
SLST2TOG is a subtle decrease stitch that makes a smooth transition in the fabric. Insert the hook into the next two stitches, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Insert the hook back into the first stitch, yarn over, and pull through both loops on the hook, creating one stitch.
Invisible Decrease (INV DEC)
INV DEC creates a nearly invisible decrease, making it a popular choice for intricate lace patterns. To perform INV DEC, insert the hook into the back loop only of the next two stitches. Yarn over and pull up a loop through both back loops. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops on the hook, creating one stitch.
Popcorn Decrease (POP DEC)
POP DEC is a decorative decrease stitch that creates a raised, popcorn-like effect. To perform POP DEC, insert the hook into the next two stitches, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Repeat this step four more times, creating five loops on the hook. Yarn over again and pull through all six loops on the hook, creating one stitch.
Advanced Decrease Techniques
Knitted Decrease Stitch
Similar to the basic decrease stitch, the knitted decrease stitch is executed by knitting two stitches together and then slipping them off the needle. However, the key difference is that you don’t yarn over before knitting the first stitch. This results in a more subtle and tidy decrease that resembles a knitted stitch.
Purl Decrease Stitch
The purl decrease stitch is the mirror image of the knitted decrease stitch. Instead of knitting two stitches together, you purl them together and then slip them off the needle. This produces a decrease that mimics a purled stitch.
Crochet Decrease Stitch
In crochet, the decrease stitch consists of working two single crochets into the same stitch. You start by inserting your hook into the next stitch, yarning over, and pulling up a loop. Next, insert your hook into the same stitch again, yarn over, and pull up another loop. Finally, yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook to complete the decrease.
Crab Stitch Decrease
The crab stitch decrease is a unique and decorative technique that involves reversing the direction of your stitches. First, insert your hook into the second stitch from the hook and draw up a loop. Then, insert your hook into the first stitch from the hook and draw up another loop. Next, yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook. Finally, insert your hook into the newly created stitch and draw up a loop. Complete the decrease by yarning over and pulling through both loops on your hook.
Invisible Decrease Stitch
The invisible decrease stitch is a clever technique that allows you to decrease stitches without leaving any visible gaps or holes. It involves working a decrease stitch along a ridge or seam in your work. The result is a seamless and virtually undetectable decrease.
Double Decrease Stitch
The double decrease stitch is an advanced technique that decreases two stitches at once. It is executed by knitting two stitches together two times in a row, without yarning over in between. This creates a steep and narrow decrease that is often used in sock heels and toes.
Triple Decrease Stitch
The triple decrease stitch is even more advanced than the double decrease stitch and decreases three stitches at once. It involves knitting three stitches together two times in a row, without yarning over in between. This technique results in a very steep and narrow decrease that is typically used in the toes of socks and mittens.
Bobble Decrease Stitch
The bobble decrease stitch is a decorative and textured technique that involves creating a small bobble while decreasing a stitch. It starts by working a series of yarn overs and single crochets, and then shaping the bobble by working a series of single crochets around the yarn overs. Finally, the bobble is decreased by working a single crochet through the center of the bobble and the next stitch.
Decreasing into a Smaller Space
To decrease into a smaller space, work the next two stitches together. To do this, yarn over (YO) and insert your hook into the next stitch. Yarn over and pull up a loop. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on your hook. Repeat for the next two stitches. This creates two stitches on your hook.
To decrease into a single stitch, work the next two stitches together as follows:
1. Yarn over (YO) and insert your hook into the next stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the next stitch.
4. Yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook.
If you need to decrease into a even smaller space, you can work three or more stitches together. To do this, simply repeat steps 1 and 2 for each additional stitch you want to decrease. Then, yarn over and pull through all of the loops on your hook.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for decreasing into a smaller space:
| Number of Stitches to Decrease | Instructions |
|—|—|
| 2 | YO, insert hook into next stitch, YO, pull up a loop, YO, pull through first two loops on hook. Repeat for next two stitches. |
| 3 | YO, insert hook into next stitch, YO, pull up a loop, YO, pull through first two loops on hook. Repeat for next two stitches. Repeat again for third stitch. |
| 4 or more | YO, insert hook into next stitch, YO, pull up a loop. Repeat for each additional stitch you want to decrease. YO, pull through all loops on hook.
Troubleshooting Common Decrease Stitch Issues
Decrease stitches are an essential part of many crochet projects, but they can sometimes be challenging to master. Here are some tips on how to troubleshoot common decrease stitch issues:
### 1. My stitches are too loose.
If your decrease stitches are too loose, you may be pulling the yarn too tightly. Try loosening your tension and crocheting the stitches more loosely.
### 2. My stitches are too tight.
If your decrease stitches are too tight, you may not be pulling the yarn tightly enough. Try pulling the yarn more tightly when crocheting the stitches.
### 3. My stitches are uneven.
If your decrease stitches are uneven, you may be crocheting them into the wrong type of stitch. Make sure to follow the pattern instructions carefully and crochet the decrease stitches into the correct type of stitch.
### 4. I’m losing stitches.
If you’re losing stitches when you crochet decrease stitches, you may be dropping the stitches off the hook. Be sure to hold the hook securely and make sure that the stitches are securely on the hook before you crochet the next stitch.
### 5. My work is puckering.
If your work is puckering when you crochet decrease stitches, you may be crocheting the stitches too tightly or pulling the yarn too tightly. Try loosening your tension and crocheting the stitches more loosely.
### 6. I can’t find the right stitch to decrease into.
If you can’t find the right stitch to decrease into, you may be looking at the wrong side of the work. Make sure to look at the right side of the work when crocheting decrease stitches.
### 7. I’m confused about which decrease stitch to use.
There are many different types of decrease stitches, and it can be confusing to know which one to use. The best way to choose a decrease stitch is to consult acrochet pattern or tutorial. The pattern or tutorial will tell you which decrease stitch to use and how to crochet it.
### 8. I’m having trouble decreasing into a single crochet stitch.
Decreasing into a single crochet stitch can be tricky, but it can be done. Here are the steps on how to do it:
### 9. I’m having trouble decreasing into a double crochet stitch.
Decreasing into a double crochet stitch can be tricky, but it can be done. Here are the steps on how to do it:
### 10. Here is a table summarizing the different types of decrease stitches and how to crochet them:
| Decrease Stitch | How to Crochet |
|---|---|
| Single crochet decrease | Insert the hook into the first single crochet stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through both loops on the hook. |
| Double crochet decrease | Yarn over and insert the hook into the first double crochet stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook, yarn over and insert the hook into the next double crochet stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook. |
| Half double crochet decrease | Yarn over and insert the hook into the first half double crochet stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook, yarn over and insert the hook into the next half double crochet stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook. |
| Treble crochet decrease | Yarn over twice and insert the hook into the first treble crochet stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through three loops on the hook, yarn over twice and insert the hook into the next treble crochet stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through three loops on the hook, yarn over twice and pull through all four loops on the hook. |
How to Do a Decrease Stitch in Crochet
A decrease stitch in crochet is used to reduce the number of stitches in a row, creating a tapered shape or a curved edge. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do a decrease stitch:
1. Insert the hook into the first stitch of the row.
2. Yarn over the hook and pull up a loop.
3. Insert the hook into the next stitch of the row.
4. Yarn over the hook and pull up a loop.
5. Yarn over the hook and pull through all three loops on the hook. This will create a single stitch.
People Also Ask
How can I decrease a stitch in the middle of a row?
To decrease a stitch in the middle of a row, first work a slip stitch to the desired stitch. Then, work a decrease stitch as described above. Slip stitch back to the next stitch and continue crocheting.
How do I decrease two stitches together?
To decrease two stitches together, work a decrease stitch in the first stitch. Then, insert the hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Yarn over again and pull through the two loops on the hook, then through the remaining loop on the hook. This will create a single stitch.
What is a double decrease?
A double decrease is a technique that decreases two stitches together by working two decrease stitches in a row. This creates a sharp angle or a rapid decrease in the number of stitches.
