1. How To Decrease Double Crochet • hornetsecurity.com

In the realm of crochet, versatility reigns supreme, and the ability to manipulate stitches offers boundless possibilities. One essential technique that unlocks a new level of creativity is the art of decreasing double crochet. By strategically reducing the number of stitches, you can shape your projects, create contours, and achieve intricate details. This article will guide you through the nuances of decreasing double crochet, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to transform your crochet creations into masterpieces.

Decreasing double crochet involves working two or more stitches together to create a single, smaller stitch. This technique comes in various forms, each with its unique purpose. The most common method is the standard decrease, where you insert your hook into the first stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. You will now have three loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through all three loops to complete the decrease. This simple yet effective technique is widely used in shaping garments, blankets, and a myriad of other projects.

Beyond the standard decrease, you may encounter variations such as the invisible decrease, which conceals the decrease point by working into the back loop of the previous row, or the treble decrease, which combines three double crochet stitches into one. These variations widen your creative horizons, allowing you to create seamless transitions, accentuate certain areas, and add a touch of sophistication to your projects. By mastering the art of decreasing double crochet, you unlock a world of possibilities, empowering you to craft unique and captivating creations that will turn heads wherever they go.

Understanding the Concept of Decreasing Double Crochet

In the realm of crochet, decreasing refers to the technique of reducing the number of stitches in a row or round. Double crochet (dc) is a versatile stitch that can be manipulated in various ways, including decreases. Decreasing dc involves working two or more stitches together to create a single stitch. This process decreases the overall width or circumference of your crocheted fabric. Understanding the concept of decreasing dc is crucial for creating intricate shapes, symmetrical patterns, and shaping garments or accessories.

To decrease dc, you will typically work two dc stitches into the same stitch. This action creates a taller, narrower stitch that effectively takes the place of the two individual dc stitches. The resulting stitch is referred to as a “decreased double crochet” (dec dc). It’s important to note that decreasing dc can result in a slight change in stitch height compared to regular dc stitches.

Decreasing dc can be employed in a variety of crochet projects. For instance, you might use it to:

Shape the neck or armholes of a sweater
Create a gradual decrease in stitch count for a triangular shawl
Reduce the circumference of a bag or hat
Add shaping details to a blanket or afghan

By mastering the art of decreasing dc, you can elevate your crochet skills and produce more sophisticated and visually appealing creations.

Understanding the Notation of Decreasing Double Crochet

In written crochet patterns, decreases are often denoted by an abbreviation or symbol. The most common notations for decreasing dc include:

Notation	Meaning
dec dc	Decrease double crochet
dc2tog	Double crochet two together
(dc, dc) dec	Decrease by crocheting two dc stitches together in the same stitch

Understanding these notations and their correct application is essential for following crochet patterns accurately.

Step-by-Step Guide to Decreasing Double Crochet

Step 1: Insert Your Hook into the First Stitch

Insert your crochet hook into the front loop only of the first stitch you want to decrease.

Step 2: Yarn Over and Pull Through

Yarn over and pull through the first stitch to form a loop on your hook.

Step 3: Step 1 (in Detail) – The Reverse Single Crochet

What is a Reverse Single Crochet (RSC)?

In crochet, a reverse single crochet (RSC) is a variation of the basic single crochet stitch that is worked into the front loop only of the previous stitch, creating a slightly different look and texture.

Step-by-Step Guide to RSC

To work a reverse single crochet:

Insert your hook into the front loop only of the next stitch.
Yarn over and pull up a loop.
Yarn over again and draw through both loops on your hook.

How RSC Differs from Regular Single Crochet

The main difference between RSC and a regular single crochet is that RSC is worked into the front loop only, while regular single crochet is worked into both the front and back loops. This results in a slightly tighter and more defined stitch with RSC, making it a good choice for creating crisp edges and details.

RSC in Double Crochet Decrease

In the context of decreasing double crochet, the RSC is used as the first step to create a more gradual decrease and avoid leaving any visible holes.

Step 4: Yarn Over and Pull Through Both Loops

Yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook to complete the double crochet decrease.

Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting

Missed Stitches

This occurs when you accidentally skip a stitch before starting the decrease. To avoid this, always count your stitches before and after each row to ensure you have the correct number.

Incorrect Hook Insertion

In step 2 of the decrease, you must insert the hook into the front loop only of the first stitch. If you insert it into the back loop or both loops, the decrease will not work correctly.

Loose Stitches

To prevent loose stitches, keep the tension of your yarn consistent throughout the decrease. Pull the yarn through the stitches firmly, but not so tightly that you distort the fabric.

Twisted Stitches

Twisted stitches can occur if you accidentally cross the loops over each other when making the decrease. To avoid this, keep the working yarn in front of the hook at all times.

Troubleshooting

Problem	Solution
Decrease is too tight	Loosen your yarn tension
Decrease is too loose	Tighten your yarn tension
Decrease is not even	Ensure you are evenly distributing the stitches across the new stitch
Stitches are twisted	Keep the working yarn in front of the hook
Missed stitches	Count your stitches before and after each row
Incorrect hook insertion	Insert the hook into the front loop only of the first stitch

Using Double Crochet Decreases

When crocheting in double crochet (dc), decreases can be incorporated to shape and define your creations. Decreases reduce the number of stitches in a row, creating a narrower or indented section.

Single Decrease

To perform a single decrease (dc2tog), yarn over (yo), insert your hook into the next stitch, yo, and pull through. Yo again, insert your hook into the next stitch, yo, and pull through both loops on the hook.

Double Decrease

For a double decrease (dc3tog), yo, insert your hook into the next two stitches, yo, and pull through all three loops on the hook. Yo again, insert your hook into the next two stitches, yo, and pull through all three loops on the hook.

Triple Decrease

To perform a triple decrease (dc4tog), yo, insert your hook into the next three stitches, yo, and pull through all four loops on the hook. Yo again, insert your hook into the next three stitches, yo, and pull through all four loops on the hook.

Clustered Decreases

Clustered decreases involve decreasing multiple stitches at once. For example, to perform a dc6tog decrease, you would yo, insert your hook into the next five stitches, yo, and pull through all six loops on the hook. This creates a significant decrease in the row.

Incorporating Decreases into Crochet Patterns

To incorporate decreases into crochet patterns, you will need to adjust the stitch counts in the rows where decreases are specified. For example, if a pattern calls for you to “dc2tog in next stitch,” you will decrease the stitch count by one in that row.

Decrease Type	Symbol	Worked
Single Decrease	dc2tog	Decreases by 1 stitch
Double Decrease	dc3tog	Decreases by 2 stitches
Triple Decrease	dc4tog	Decreases by 3 stitches
Clustered Decrease	dc6tog	Decreases by 5 stitches

Additional Tips

When performing decreases, maintain even tension to keep the fabric looking neat. To prevent puckering, insert your hook slightly above the stitch when decreasing. Consider using a smaller hook size for the rows where decreases are worked to create a tighter fabric.

Using Decreases to Create Shapes and Designs

Decreasing stitches in double crochet can create dynamic and visually appealing shapes and designs. Below are some common applications:

Pointed Edges

Alternating single crochets with double crochets can create sharp points.

Triangles

Decreasing evenly on both sides of a row creates a triangular shape.

Curves and Circles

Decreasing more rapidly on one side of a row creates curves or circles.

Complex Shapes

Combining different decrease techniques allows for the creation of intricate patterns and shapes.

Amigurumi Shaping

Decreasing double crochet stitches is essential for shaping amigurumi projects, such as creating rounded heads or tapering limbs.

Mock Cables

Alternating increasing and decreasing double crochet stitches can imitate the look of knitted cables.

Intarsia and Fair Isle

Decreasing stitches allows for color changes in intarsia and Fair Isle knitting techniques, where two or more colors are used to create patterns.

Decrease Type	Description
Single Crochet 2 Together (sc2tog)	Decrease two double crochet stitches into one single crochet stitch.
Half Double Crochet 2 Together (hdc2tog)	Decrease two double crochet stitches into one half double crochet stitch.
Double Crochet 2 Together (dc2tog)	Decrease two double crochet stitches into one double crochet stitch (standard decrease).
Slip Stitch, Double Crochet Slip Stitch 2 Together (sl st, dc sl st 2tog)	Decrease three double crochet stitches into one slip stitch.
Slip Stitch, Double Crochet 3 Together (sl st, dc3tog)	Decrease four double crochet stitches into one slip stitch.

Alternative Methods of Decreasing Double Crochet

Invisibly Decreasing Double Crochet

To invisibly decrease double crochet, follow these steps:
1. Begin by making 2 double crochet stitches, leaving the 2 loops on your hook.
2. Yarn over and pull through both loops on your hook, decreasing by 1 stitch.
3. Complete the remaining double crochet stitch as usual.

Joining Double Crochet Together

To join double crochet together, follow these steps:
1. Make a slip knot and insert your hook into the second stitch from the beginning of your row.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop.
3. Insert your hook into the next stitch and yarn over, pulling through both loops on your hook.
4. Repeat step 3 until you reach the desired number of double crochet stitches joined together.

Clustered Double Crochet Decrease

To create a clustered double crochet decrease, follow these steps:
1. Begin by making 3 double crochet stitches, leaving all 3 loops on your hook.
2. Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops on your hook, decreasing by 2 stitches.
3. Yarn over and pull through the remaining 2 loops on your hook, completing the decrease.

Double Crochet Bobble Decrease

To create a double crochet bobble decrease, follow these steps:
1. Begin by making 2 double crochet stitches into the same stitch, leaving all 4 loops on your hook.
2. Yarn over and pull through the first 2 loops on your hook.
3. Yarn over and pull through the next 2 loops on your hook.
4. Yarn over and pull through all 4 loops on your hook, completing the decrease.

Double Crochet Slip Stitch Decrease

To create a double crochet slip stitch decrease, follow these steps:
1. Insert your hook into the next 2 stitches.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop through both stitches.
3. Yarn over and pull through both loops on your hook, completing the decrease.

Double Crochet Popcorn Decrease

To create a double crochet popcorn decrease, follow these steps:
1. Make 2 double crochet stitches into the same stitch, leaving all 4 loops on your hook.
2. Yarn over and pull through the first 2 loops on your hook.
3. Make 2 more double crochet stitches into the same stitch, leaving all 6 loops on your hook.
4. Yarn over and pull through all 6 loops on your hook, completing the decrease.

Double Crochet V-Stitch Decrease

To create a double crochet V-stitch decrease, follow these steps:
1. Make a double crochet stitch into the first stitch.
2. Skip the next stitch and make a double crochet stitch into the following stitch.
3. Insert your hook into the top of the skipped stitch and yarn over.
4. Pull up a loop and yarn over, pulling through both loops on your hook.
5. Yarn over and pull through the remaining 2 loops on your hook, completing the decrease.

Double Crochet Spike Stitch Decrease

To create a double crochet spike stitch decrease, follow these steps:
1. Begin by making 2 double crochet stitches into the same stitch, leaving all 4 loops on your hook.
2. Yarn over and pull through the first 2 loops on your hook.
3. Repeat step 2, creating a chain of 3 or more loops on your hook.
4. Yarn over and pull through all the loops on your hook, completing the decrease.

Double Crochet Shell Stitch Decrease

To create a double crochet shell stitch decrease, follow these steps:
1. Make 2 double crochet stitches into the same stitch, leaving all 4 loops on your hook.
2. Yarn over and pull through the first 2 loops on your hook.
3. Make 2 more double crochet stitches into the same stitch, leaving all 6 loops on your hook.
4. Yarn over and pull through the first 3 loops on your hook.
5. Make 2 more double crochet stitches into the same stitch, leaving all 8 loops on your hook.
6. Yarn over and pull through all 8 loops on your hook, completing the decrease.

Decreasing Method	Steps
Invisibly Decreasing Double Crochet	Make 2 dc, leaving 2 loops on hook. Yo and pull through both loops, decreasing by 1 stitch.
Joining Double Crochet Together	Slip knot into 2nd stitch, yo, pull up loop. Insert hook into next stitch, yo, pull through both loops. Repeat.
Clustered Double Crochet Decrease	Make 3 dc, leaving 3 loops on hook. Yo and pull through all 3 loops, decreasing by 2 stitches. Yo and pull through remaining 2 loops.

Decreasing in Double Crochet

Decreases in double crochet (dc) involves working two or more stitches together to reduce the width of the fabric. To decrease in dc, simply work a half double crochet (hdc) into the first stitch, then a dc into the second stitch. This will result in a single dc stitch that is shorter in height and narrower in width. Repeating this process will gradually decrease the size of the fabric.

Creative Applications of Decreases in Crochet

Creating Curves and Shapes

Decreases allow you to shape crocheted pieces by creating curves and angles. By selectively decreasing at specific intervals, you can create bell-shaped sleeves, circular motifs, or V-necks.

Adding Texture and Interest

Strategic decreases can add texture and visual interest to crocheted fabrics. By alternating decreases with increases, you can create ribbed patterns, eyelet lace, or decorative scallops.

Expanding Design Possibilities

Decreases open up a wide range of design possibilities. They enable you to create intricate patterns, such as stars, flowers, and geometric shapes, by combining them with increases and other crochet techniques.

Creating Fitted Garments

Decreases are essential for creating fitted garments in crochet. By decreasing at the waist, cuffs, and necklines, you can shape the fabric to conform to the curves of the body.

Amigurumi and Toy Making

Decreases play a crucial role in amigurumi and toy making. They allow you to sculpt and shape features such as limbs, noses, and eyes, creating three-dimensional and realistic characters.

Edging and Finishing

Decreases can be used to create decorative edges and finishes. By decreasing regularly along the edges of a project, you can create scalloped borders, ruffled fringes, or pointed collars.

Lace Crochet

Lace crochet heavily relies on decreases to create intricate and delicate patterns. By working multiple stitches together, you can achieve open and airy designs that resemble lace.

Multicolored Decreases

Combining different colors in decreases can add visual depth and interest. By changing colors at specific intervals, you can create stripes, gradients, or colorwork patterns.

3D Structures

Decreases can be used to create three-dimensional structures in crochet. By working decreases in a specific sequence, you can fold and shape the fabric into bowls, vases, and other decorative objects.

Other Techniques with Decreases

Technique	Description
Double Decrease (dc2tog)	Work two dc stitches together into the same stitch.
Half Treble Decrease (htr2tog)	Work two half treble crochet stitches together into the same stitch.
Treble Decrease (tr2tog)	Work two treble crochet stitches together into the same stitch.

How to Decrease Double Crochet

Decreasing double crochet (dc) stitches is a valuable technique in crocheting that allows you to shape your projects and create a variety of designs. Decreasing involves reducing the number of stitches in a row, which can help create curves, angles, or other specific shapes.

To decrease a double crochet stitch, follow these steps:

Yarn over the hook.
Insert the hook into the next stitch, as if you were working a regular dc stitch.
Yarn over the hook and pull up a loop.
Yarn over the hook again and pull through the first two loops on the hook.
Yarn over the hook one more time and pull through the remaining two loops on the hook.