Want to add shaping, decrease bulk, or sculpt your next crochet plushie with ease? The single crochet 3 together stitch—also known as sc3tog crochet—is a simple but powerful technique used in amigurumi, garment shaping, and sculpted designs. At Okey Dokeys, we love how this quick little decrease helps bring characters and creations to life. If you’re learning how to single crochet 3 together, you’re in the right place!

Right Handed Crochet Tutorial

Left Handed Crochet Tutorial

What Is Single Crochet 3 Together? 

The sc3tog stitch (short for “single crochet 3 together”) is a common decrease technique where you combine three single crochet stitches into one. This helps you reduce stitch count and create shaping, curves, and tapering. You’ll see this stitch frequently in crochet amigurumi patterns, especially when shaping the heads, arms, or bodies of plushies.

Step-by-Step Guide to Single Crochet 3 Together (sc3tog) 

• Step 1. Insert Your Hook: Begin by inserting your hook into the first stitch where you want to start the decrease.

• Step 2. Yarn Over (yo): Yarn over and pull up a loop. You should have two loops on your hook.

• Step 3. Repeat for Next Two Stitches: 

(Insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop (three loops on your hook))

(Insert your hook into the third stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop (four loops on your hook))

• Step 4. Complete the Stitch: Yarn over one last time and pull through the remaining three loops on your hook. Congratulations! You’ve just completed a single crochet 3-together stitch!

When to Use the sc3tog Stitch 

This stitch is especially useful when you need subtle but strong shaping. Try it in these types of projects:

• Amigurumi: Great for narrowing or rounding off heads, arms, and tails.

• Garment shaping: Tapers stitches smoothly at necklines, waistbands, or sleeves.

• Design accents: Add interest or structural depth to bags and accessories.

If you're working on crochet projects for more advanced crafters, this stitch will pop up often!

Okey Dokeys Tips

• Use a stitch marker before and after your decrease so you don’t lose track.

• Keep your tension consistent—loose loops make it easier to pull through all four.

• Combine it with other decreases like sc2tog to shape your piece just right.

And if you’re just getting started, don’t miss our Crochet Basics section, where you can learn how to do a double crochet, how to chain stitch, and more foundational techniques.