Ready to learn how to decrease (dec) in crochet? This handy technique will help you shape your projects, narrow down rows, and even give your amigurumi that perfect finish! At Okey Dokeys, we’re all about making crochet fun and easy, so let’s dive into decreasing, with both regular and invisible methods to keep your crochet game strong!

Right Handed

Left Handed

What Is a Decrease? 

A decrease is simply the process of turning two stitches into one. This technique allows you to make your project smaller, shaping it as needed. In single crochet, this is done by working two stitches together. There are two main types of decreases: the regular decrease and the invisible decrease, each with its own special use.

How to Decrease Step-by-Step (Regular Decrease) 

Here’s how you can reduce stitches using the regular decrease: 

• Insert Your Hook: Insert your hook into the first stitch where you want to decrease.
  
• Yarn Over (yo): Wrap the yarn over your hook and pull through the first stitch. You should now have two loops on your hook.
  

• Insert Hook into Next Stitch: Without finishing the first stitch, insert your hook into the next stitch.
  

• Yarn Over Again: Yarn over and pull through the second stitch. You now have three loops on your hook.

• Yarn Over and Pull Through All Loops: Yarn over one more time and pull through all three loops on your hook. You’ve successfully decreased two stitches into one! (Wrapping the yarn around the hook)

How to Do an Invisible Decrease 

For projects where you want a more seamless look—like amigurumi or any piece where the decrease should be less visible—the invisible decrease is your friend. 

• Insert Your Hook into Front Loops: Instead of going through the entire stitch, insert your hook into the first stitch's front loop and then the second stitch's front loop.(Inserting in the first loop)

• Yarn Over and Pull Through: Yarn over and pull through both front loops. You’ll now have two loops on your hook. (Wrapping the yarn around the hook)

• Yarn Over and Pull Through Both Loops: Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook, completing the invisible decrease. Now your stitches are reduced, and the decrease is hardly noticeable! (wrapping the yarn over)
  
  (pulling the yarn through both loops)

When to Use a Decrease 

Decreases are used in a variety of projects, particularly when shaping and narrowing parts of your work. Here are some great places to try them: 

• Amigurumi: Decreases are often used to narrow down the shape of stuffed animals or toys, especially when closing off limbs or bodies. 
• Shaping Garments: If you’re making garments like sweaters or hats, you’ll use decreases to shape curves, cinch in waists, or taper sleeves. 
• Finishing Edges: Decreasing is great for finishing off the tops of hats, mittens, or any other projects that need to close up neatly.

Okey Dokeys Tip: Practice with Projects! 

Just like increases, decreases might take some practice to get right. But don’t worry! Okey Dokeys has beginner-friendly crochet kits where you can practice your decreases while making fun projects like amigurumi. Plus, we’re all about making crochet easy and fun, so you’ll enjoy every step of the way.