How to Decrease in Crochet
Learn how to decrease in crochet using two simple methods: the regular single crochet decrease (sc2tog) and the invisible decrease. These techniques help reduce stitches and create smooth shaping in crochet projects like amigurumi, hats, and more.
Yield: 1 decrease
Cost: $1
Equipment
Materials
- Worsted weight yarn (or other yarn type)
Instructions
How to Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog):
- Start with a foundation. This can be a row of stitches or a 3D shape where you're working in the round.For simplicity, we'll show you how to decrease on a row of single crochet stitches.
- Begin by inserting your hook into the first stitch.
- Yarn over.
- Pull the yarn back through the stitch.
- You should now have 2 loops on your hook.
- Insert the hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over.
- Pull the yarn back through this stitch.
- You should now have 3 loops on your hook.
- Yarn over.
- Pull the yarn through all 3 loops.
- Your decrease is now complete and 2 stitches have become 1.
- Here's what it looks like when you decrease across.
How to Invisible Decrease:
- Start with your foundation. Again, this could be a round in a 3D shape, or a row of stitches you need to be smaller.Here we're working with a row of single crochet stitches.
- Insert your hook in the front loop only of the first stitch.
- Then insert your hook into the front loop only of the next stitch.You should now have the front loops of the first 2 stitches plus the loop you started with on your hook.
- Yarn over.
- Pull the yarn through both stitches (again, just the front loops).
- You should now have 2 loops on your hook.
- Yarn over.
- Pull the yarn through both loops.
- Your invisible decrease is now complete!
- Here's what it looks like when you invisible decrease across.
- And here's a comparison of invisible decrease (on top) and regular single crochet decrease (bottom).
Video
Notes
Looking to learn more crochet skills? Check out our crochet basics posts:
How to Single Crochet
How to Crochet a Magic Circle
Slip Stitch in Crochet