Want to make your crochet project bigger, wider, or more shaped? Whether you're working on a plush amigurumi, a cozy scarf, or a growing blanket, learning how to increase crochet is one of the most essential skills for any crocheter. At Okey Dokeys, we’re here to break it down so it’s fun, simple, and totally beginner-friendly!

Right Handed

Left Handed

What Is an Increase Stitch in Crochet?

An increase stitch crochet technique simply adds more stitches to your row or round—helping your project grow in size. In single crochet, this is usually done by placing two single crochet stitches into the same stitch. It’s an easy way to add width, shape curves, and give dimension to your projects.

You’ll often see this technique referred to as an INC stitch, crochet INC, or just increase crochet in patterns.

So, what is an increase stitch in crochet? It’s your go-to move for making your project grow—literally! Whether you're learning how to do an increase stitch for the first time or brushing up on your technique, you're building the foundation for shaping everything from blankets to plushies.

How to Increase Crochet – Step-by-Step

Let’s go through how to make a basic crochet increase using single crochet:

1. Insert Your Hook into the stitch where you want to add an increase.

• Yarn Over (yo): Wrap the yarn over your hook from back to front. 

• Pull Through: Pull the yarn through the stitch. You now have two loops on your hook.

• Yarn Over Again: Yarn over your hook once more. 

• Pull Through Both Loops: Pull the yarn through both loops to complete your first single crochet stitch. 

• Go Again!: Insert your hook into the same stitch you just worked into and repeat the steps above. You’ll end up with two single crochet stitches in the same space—this is your increase!

This is the most common way to increase crochet, especially in beginner projects.

Regular Increase vs. Invisible Increase

There are two main types of increases:

• Regular Increase: Simply making two stitches in the same space. This method is great for projects where texture is welcome, like scarves or rows of granny squares. It’s the easiest way to get started.

• Invisible Increase: For a smoother, more polished look (especially in amigurumi). To do this:

  • Insert your hook into the front loop only of the first stitch.

  • Complete a regular single crochet.

  • For the second stitch, insert into the full stitch as usual.

This technique hides the bump and blends the shaping into your fabric seamlessly.

Okey Dokeys Tip: Use invisible increases in any plush project or doll where you want a clean shape without visible bumps.

When to Use a Crochet Increase

Crochet increases are used in tons of places! Here’s where you’ll commonly see them:

• Amigurumi – Shape heads, bodies, limbs, and tails by increasing as you work in the round.

• Shaping Garments – Add structure and curves to sleeves, collars, or waistlines.

• Blankets or Scarves – Want more width? Use a few increase stitches to grow your work.

Once you learn how to do an increase stitch, you’ll notice how often it appears in patterns—especially with plush toys or shaping-based designs.

Practice with Okey Dokeys Crochet Kits

Learning how to increase stitch crochet is easy once you get a feel for it. Okey Dokeys kits make it even more fun to learn!

Each of our kits comes with step-by-step tutorials, plushie-friendly yarn, and beginner-friendly designs. Most of our cute amigurumi characters use simple increases, so you’ll get real hands-on experience without overwhelm. Try your first inc crochet technique with one of our best-selling animal kits—you'll be amazed at how fast you improve.