Learning how to decrease in double crochet (DC) can open up a world of possibilities for your crochet projects. Whether you’re shaping garments, creating toys, or designing home decor, understanding the DC decrease technique is essential. This guide will walk you through the basics, step-by-step instructions, and advanced variations to help you master the art of DC decrease.
Key Takeaways
- Double crochet (DC) decrease is a technique used to reduce the number of stitches in your crochet work.
- The traditional DC decrease involves working two double crochet stitches together.
- Invisible double crochet decrease creates a less bulky stitch by decreasing at the base rather than the top.
- Advanced variations of DC include working in different loops, double crochet ribbing, and front post/back post double crochet.
- Mastering DC decrease is useful for shaping garments, creating amigurumi, and designing home decor items.
Basics of Double Crochet Decrease
Understanding Double Crochet (DC)
Double crochet (DC) is one of the most common stitches in crochet. It’s taller than a single crochet and creates a looser fabric. To make a DC, you yarn over, insert the hook into the stitch, yarn over again, pull through the stitch, yarn over once more, pull through two loops, and finally, yarn over and pull through the last two loops.
What is DC Decrease in Crochet?
A DC decrease, also known as dc2tog, involves working two stitches together to form a single stitch. This technique effectively reduces the stitch count in your project. 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 help shape your crochet piece, making it narrower or creating curves.
Common Uses of DC Decrease
DC decreases are used in various crochet projects, including:
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- Shaping garments: Helps in creating fitted clothing items.
- Creating amigurumi: Essential for forming the shapes of stuffed toys.
- Designing home decor items: Useful in making items like pillows and blankets with specific shapes.
Mastering the DC decrease is crucial for any crocheter looking to advance their skills and create more complex projects.
Step-by-Step Guide to Traditional DC Decrease
Materials Needed
Before you start, gather these materials:
- Yarn of your choice
- Crochet hook suitable for your yarn
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
Instructions for Traditional DC Decrease
Follow these steps to create a traditional double crochet decrease (dc2tog):
- Insert the hook into the first stitch and start a double crochet, but stop before the last step. You should have two loops on your hook.
- Insert the hook into the next stitch and start another double crochet, stopping before the last step. Now, you should have three loops on your hook.
- Yarn over and pull through all three loops on the hook. This completes your double crochet decrease.
Tips for Beginners
- Practice makes perfect: The more you practice, the more even your stitches will become.
- Use a stitch marker to keep track of your rows and decreases.
- Don’t pull your yarn too tight; keep a relaxed tension for smoother stitches.
Decreasing is important to learn in order to make things like ear flaps on a winter hat and clothing. There are different techniques for both single, half double, and double crochet.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll master the traditional double crochet decrease in no time!
Invisible Double Crochet Decrease Technique
Why Use Invisible DC Decrease?
If a regular double crochet decrease feels too bulky, the invisible DC decrease is a great alternative. This technique reduces bulk and creates smooth, neat decreases that are almost invisible. It’s like a crochet magic trick!
Step-by-Step Instructions
To make an invisible double crochet decrease:
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- Yarn over and insert the hook into the front loop of the first stitch.
- Without yarning over again, insert the hook into the front loop of the next stitch.
- Yarn over and pull through the first two loops on the hook.
- Yarn over and pull through the next two loops.
- Yarn over one last time and pull through the final two loops.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping stitches: Make sure you insert the hook into the front loops of both stitches.
- Yarning over too early: Only yarn over when instructed to avoid extra bulk.
- Tight stitches: Keep your stitches loose to make the decrease smoother.
Invisible decreases are perfect for projects where you want a clean, professional look without the extra bulk.
Advanced Variations of Double Crochet
Working in Different Loops
You can create different textures by working a double crochet in either the front or back loops. This technique is simple but can add a lot of visual interest to your projects.
Double Crochet Ribbing
If you work rows of double crochet in the back loop only (DC BLO), you can create a stretchy ribbing that’s ideal for sweater hems and cuffs. This method is perfect for adding elasticity to your garments.
Herringbone Double Crochet
This stitch technique will give you a solid fabric with a beautiful zig-zag effect. It’s a great way to add some flair to your crochet projects.
Front Post/Back Post Double Crochet
This technique allows you to create crochet cables, stretchy ribbing, and ultra-textured stitch patterns like the waffle stitch and the basketweave stitch. It’s a versatile method that can be used in many different types of projects.
Mastering these advanced variations can take your crochet skills to the next level, allowing you to create more intricate and beautiful designs.
Practical Applications of DC Decrease
Shaping Garments
Decreasing helps you shape the crochet piece by making it narrower in specific places. This is especially useful when creating fitted garments like sweaters or hats. By using DC decreases, you can taper sleeves, cinch waists, or create form-fitting shapes that enhance the overall look of your project.
Creating Amigurumi
In amigurumi, DC decreases are essential for forming the shapes of your stuffed toys. Whether you’re making the head, limbs, or body, decreasing stitches allows you to create smooth, rounded forms. This technique is crucial for achieving the desired three-dimensional effect in your amigurumi projects.
Designing Home Decor Items
DC decreases are also useful in home decor projects like pillows, blankets, and baskets. By strategically placing decreases, you can create interesting patterns and textures. For example, you can make a pillow cover with a tapered edge or a basket with a rounded bottom, adding a unique touch to your home decor.
When you master DC decreases, you unlock a world of creative possibilities in your crochet projects. From shaping garments to designing intricate home decor items, this technique is a valuable tool in any crocheter’s skill set.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Identifying Stitch Count Errors
One of the most common problems in crochet is having the wrong number of stitches. If your project is getting wider or narrower, you might be adding or losing stitches. Count your stitches at the end of each row to make sure you have the right number. This is especially important if the pattern doesn’t call for any increases or decreases.
Fixing Uneven Edges
Uneven edges can make your project look messy. To avoid this, try chaining two instead of three stitches for the turning chain. This shorter turning chain can help minimize gaps at the beginning of the rows. Also, make sure to place your double crochets consistently.
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Avoiding Bulkiness in Decreases
If your decreases are too bulky, try using an invisible double crochet decrease. This technique decreases the base of the stitch rather than the top, making it less noticeable. Yarn over, insert the hook into the front loop of the first stitch, then into the front loop of the next stitch, and complete the double crochet as usual.
With practice, you can elevate your crochet skills and create beautiful items. Remember, even tension and consistent stitch placement are key to mastering crochet.
Additional Resources for Mastering Crochet
Recommended Books
For those who love to read, there are many great books on crochet. Some popular choices include:
- The Complete Book of Crochet Stitch Designs by Linda Schapper
- Crochet Every Way Stitch Dictionary by Dora Ohrenstein
- The Crochet Answer Book by Edie Eckman
These books cover everything from basic stitches to advanced techniques, making them perfect for beginners and experienced crocheters alike.
Online Tutorials and Videos
Online tutorials and videos are a fantastic way to learn crochet at your own pace. Websites like YouTube and blogs offer step-by-step guides and visual aids. Some recommended channels and sites include:
- Sarah Maker – Offers free patterns and step-by-step instructions.
- Crochet Crowd – Features video tutorials for various projects.
- Bella Coco – Provides easy-to-follow video tutorials.
Community Support and Forums
Joining a crochet community can be incredibly helpful. You can ask questions, share your work, and get feedback. Some popular forums and groups include:
- Ravelry – A large online community for knitters and crocheters.
- Reddit – The r/crochet subreddit is a great place to connect with other crocheters.
- Facebook Groups – There are many crochet groups where you can share tips and patterns.
Exploring the possibilities of crochet can be a fun and rewarding journey. Whether you’re learning from books, online tutorials, or community forums, there’s always something new to discover.
By using these resources, you’ll be well on your way to mastering crochet and creating beautiful projects.
Conclusion
Mastering the double crochet decrease is a key skill for any crochet beginner. It allows you to shape your projects, making everything from fitted garments to detailed amigurumi. Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they are part of the learning process. With patience and persistence, you’ll soon be creating beautiful, well-shaped crochet pieces. Keep experimenting with different techniques and enjoy the creative journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a double crochet (DC) decrease?
A double crochet decrease, often called dc2tog, is a technique where two double crochet stitches are turned into one. This is done to reduce the number of stitches in a row.
Why would I use a DC decrease in my project?
DC decreases are used to shape your crochet projects. They are essential for creating curves, angles, and fitting garments like hats, sweaters, and amigurumi.
How do I make an invisible DC decrease?
To make an invisible DC decrease, yarn over and insert the hook into the front loop of the first stitch. Without yarning over again, insert the hook into the front loop of the next stitch. Then, yarn over and pull through the first two loops, yarn over again and pull through the next two loops, and finally yarn over and pull through the last two loops.
What materials do I need to practice DC decrease?
To practice DC decrease, you’ll need yarn, a crochet hook that matches the yarn weight, scissors, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when doing a DC decrease?
Common mistakes include losing track of stitch count, which can make your project uneven, and not pulling your loops tight enough, which can make the decrease look bulky.
Where can I find more resources to learn DC decrease?
You can find more resources in crochet books, online tutorials, and community forums. Many websites and YouTube channels offer step-by-step guides and videos to help you master DC decrease.
