Crocheting is a versatile and rewarding craft that can be used to create a wide variety of beautiful and functional items. One of the most basic crochet stitches is the single crochet, which is used to create a flat, even fabric. However, there are many other crochet stitches that can be used to create different textures and effects. One of the most popular crochet stitches is the increase stitch, which is used to add stitches to a row or round. This stitch can be used to create a variety of shapes and designs, such as circles, squares, and triangles.
The increase stitch is a relatively easy stitch to learn, but it can be a little tricky at first. However, with a little practice, you’ll be able to master this stitch in no time. To crochet an increase stitch, you will need to insert your hook into the next stitch on the row or round, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Next, you will need to yarn over again and pull through both loops on your hook. This will create two new stitches on your hook. Finally, you will need to yarn over again and pull through all three loops on your hook. This will complete the increase stitch.
The increase stitch can be used to create a variety of different shapes and designs. For example, you can use the increase stitch to create a circle by crocheting a series of rounds, each round increasing the number of stitches by one. You can also use the increase stitch to create a square by crocheting a series of rows, each row increasing the number of stitches by two. Finally, you can use the increase stitch to create a triangle by crocheting a series of rows, each row increasing the number of stitches by one. With a little creativity, you can use the increase stitch to create a variety of beautiful and unique crochet projects.
Understanding the Basics of Increasing Stitches
In crochet, increasing refers to the act of creating additional stitches within a row, either to widen a fabric or to create intricate shapes and patterns. Understanding the basics of increasing stitches is crucial for crocheters of all levels to expand their creative possibilities.
There are several common methods for increasing stitches, each resulting in a slightly different look and feel. One of the most basic and versatile techniques is known as the “yarn over” (yo) method, which is performed by wrapping the yarn around the hook an additional time before completing the stitch.
To execute a yarn over increase:
- Insert the hook into the next stitch on the row as usual.
- Wrap the yarn around the hook from back to front, as if you were making a slip knot.
- Pull the yarn through the stitch to create a loop on the hook.
- Complete the stitch as usual, by pulling the loop through the loops on the hook.
The yarn over increase creates a new stitch that is identical to the original stitch, resulting in an even and seamless increase. This technique is commonly used to widen fabrics, create curves, and add depth to patterns.
Step 2: Making a Yarn Over
The second fundamental technique in crocheting an increase is the yarn over. This maneuver involves wrapping the working yarn around the crochet hook an additional time before inserting it into the next stitch. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Positioning the Yarn
Before making the yarn over, position the working yarn at the front of the hook, coming from below. The yarn should be loose enough to wrap around the hook smoothly.
Wrapping the Yarn
With your right hand, gently bring the hook over and around the working yarn, moving clockwise. Ensure that the yarn wraps snugly around the hook, but not too tightly to impede the flow of the yarn.
Completing the Yarn Over
Once wrapped, the working yarn will be positioned in front of the hook again. Pull the yarn through the loop that was formed by the wrap. This completes the yarn over, resulting in an extra loop on the hook.
Yarn Over in Practice
The yarn over is utilized in various crochet stitches to create a larger fabric. It is commonly combined with the single crochet or double crochet to form increases, adding width and length to the project.
| Stitch | Description |
|---|---|
| Single Crochet Increase | Single crochet into the next stitch, then yarn over and single crochet into the same stitch again. |
| Double Crochet Increase | Yarn over, double crochet into the next stitch, yarn over, and double crochet into the same stitch again. |
By mastering the yarn over, you can seamlessly incorporate increases into your crochet creations, expanding the size and shaping of your projects with ease.
Step 3: Hooking Around the Front and Back Loop
To increase by hooking around the front and back loop, follow these steps:
1. Insert Hook into Front Loop
Insert your hook into the next stitch on the row, from front to back
2. Yarn Over and Pull Up a Loop
Yarn over the hook and pull up a loop through the front loop
3. Insert Hook into Back Loop
Insert your hook into the back loop of the same stitch, from back to front
4. Yarn Over and Pull Through Both Loops on Hook
Yarn over the hook again and pull the yarn through both loops on the hook, creating an increase.
In summary, the process involves:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert hook into front loop |
| 2 | Yarn over and pull up a loop |
| 3 | Insert hook into back loop |
| 4 | Yarn over and pull through both loops |
Step 4: Creating a New Loop
Section 1: Wrapping the Hook
With a loop on your hook, insert the hook into the next stitch. Wrap the yarn over the hook from left to right.
Section 2: Drawing Through the Stitch
Draw the yarn through the stitch. You now have two loops on your hook.
Section 3: Completing the First Stitch
Wrap the yarn over the hook again from left to right. Draw this yarn through both loops on the hook. This completes the first stitch of the increase.
Section 4: Drawing Through the First Loop Twice
Insert the hook into the first loop on the hook. Wrap the yarn over the hook and draw it through the loop. Do this again to draw through both strands of the loop.
Section 5: Finishing the Increase
You now have two loops on your hook again. Wrap the yarn over the hook and draw it through both loops to complete the second stitch of the increase. You have successfully created a new loop in the fabric.
| Visual Explanation | Step-by-Step Instructions |
|---|---|
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Step 5: Finishing the Stitch
After completing the back loop of the stitch, it’s time to finish it off.
6. Insert the hook into the front loop of the original stitch, as shown in the diagram below:
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Diagram: |
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Make sure to insert the hook through the front loop (the one closest to the front of the work), not the back loop.
7. Yarn over and pull up a loop through the front loop, creating a new loop on the hook.
8. Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook, completing the stitch.
You have now successfully increased the number of stitches in your work by one.
Types of Increases
Single Crochet Increase (scinc)
The most basic type of increase, made by working 2 single crochets into the same stitch.
Half Double Crochet Increase (hdc)
A variation of the single crochet increase, made by working 2 half double crochets into the same stitch.
Double Crochet Increase (dc)
Another popular increase, made by working 2 double crochets into the same stitch.
Triple Crochet Increase (tr)
A more pronounced increase, made by working 2 triple crochets into the same stitch.
Popcorn Increase (pop)
Creates a textured effect by working a series of stitches into the same stitch and then drawing them together.
V-Stitch Increase (v)
Forms a V-shape by working 2 double crochets into the same stitch, then skipping a stitch and working 2 more double crochets into the next stitch.
Shell Increase
A combination of double crochets and chain stitches that creates a fan-shaped motif. The number of chains used determines the size of the shell.
| Increase Type | Stitch Count per Increase |
|---|---|
| Single Crochet | 2 |
| Half Double Crochet | 2 |
| Double Crochet | 2 |
| Triple Crochet | 2 |
| Popcorn | Varies depending on the number of stitches worked |
| V-Stitch | 4 |
| Shell | Varies depending on the number of chains used |
Common Misconceptions and Tips
Misconception 1: Increasing always creates holes in the fabric
Reality: Increasing can be done in a variety of ways, some of which create holes and others that do not. For example, yarnover increases create holes, while half double crochet three together (hdc3tog) increases do not.
Tip 1: Keep the tension consistent
Uneven tension can make your increases look sloppy or uneven. Try to maintain a relaxed but firm grip on the yarn as you work.
Tip 2: Use different types of increases to create different effects
Different types of increases create different stitch patterns. For example, front post increases create a textured ribbed pattern, while back post increases create a dense, tighter fabric. Experiment with different types of increases to see what works best for your project.
Tip 3: Be careful not to over-increase
Too many increases in a short space can make your fabric curl or pucker. If you’re unsure how many increases to make, start with a few and see how your fabric responds.
Tip 4: Insert your hook in the correct stitch
When making an increase, it’s important to insert your hook into the correct stitch. For example, when making an hdc3tog, you should insert your hook into the third stitch from the hook.
Tip 5: Yarn over correctly
When yarnover is called for in an increase, be sure to yarn over in the correct direction. For most increases, you’ll yarn over to the front of the work.
Tip 6: Work your hook through all the correct loops
When completing an increase, be sure to work your hook through all the correct loops. For example, when making an hdc3tog, you should work your hook through the back loop of the first two stitches and both loops of the third stitch.
Tip 7: Don’t be afraid to experiment
There are many different ways to increase in crochet. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques to see what works best for you and your project.
Tip 8: Practice makes perfect
The best way to improve your increasing skills is to practice. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with the different techniques. Here’s a simple exercise to help you practice:
| Row 1: | Chain 10 |
|---|---|
| Row 2: | Single crochet in each stitch across (10 sc) |
| Row 3: | Single crochet in the first 2 stitches, half double crochet three together in the next stitch, single crochet in the remaining 7 stitches (11 hdc) |
| Row 4: | Single crochet in each stitch across (11 sc) |
| Row 5: | Single crochet in the first 3 stitches, half double crochet three together in the next stitch, single crochet in the remaining 8 stitches (12 hdc) |
Continue increasing in this manner until you reach the desired width.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Problem: My stitches are too loose or too tight
Solution: Adjust your hook size. If your stitches are too loose, use a smaller hook. If they’re too tight, use a larger hook.
Problem: I’m not sure how many stitches I have
Solution: Mark the first stitch of each row with a stitch marker, or place a safety pin in the first stitch.
Problem: I’m getting holes in my crochet
Solution: Make sure you’re pulling the yarn through all the loops on your hook, and that you’re not skipping any stitches.
Problem: My crochet is curling at the edges
Solution: Block your crochet by dampening it and laying it flat to dry. This will help even out the tension and prevent the edges from curling.
Problem: My crochet is too stiff
Solution: Use a softer yarn, or try using a bigger hook. You can also block your crochet to make it softer.
Problem: My crochet is too flimsy
Solution: Use a stronger yarn, or try using a smaller hook. You can also starch your crochet to make it stronger.
Problem: I’m not sure how to do an increase
Solution: There are several ways to increase stitches. The most common way is to yarn over (yo), which means to bring the yarn over the hook. You can also increase by working into the back loop only (BLO), or into the front loop only (FLO).
Problem: I’m not sure how to do a decrease
Solution: There are several ways to decrease stitches. The most common way is to slip stitch (sl st), which means to insert the hook into the next stitch and pull up a loop, then slide both loops off the hook. You can also decrease by working two stitches together (sc2tog), or by working three stitches together (sc3tog).
Problem: I’m not sure how to change colors
Solution: To change colors, simply tie the new color onto the old color, and then continue crocheting with the new color. You can also use a slip stitch to join the two colors.
Applying Increases in Crochet Patterns
1. Single Crochet Increase (sc inc)**
Work 1 sc into the stitch, insert hook into the next stitch, and work another sc into the same stitch.
2. Half Double Crochet Increase (hdc inc)**
Work 1 hdc into the stitch, yarn over, work 1 hdc into the same stitch, and yarn over and through each of the next 2 loops on the hook.
3. Double Crochet Increase (dc inc)**
Yarn over, work 1 dc into the stitch, yarn over, work 2 dc into the same stitch, and yarn over and through each of the next 3 loops on the hook.
4. Triple Crochet Increase (tr inc)**
Work 1 tr into the stitch, yarn over, work 2 tr into the same stitch, yarn over, work 3 tr into the same stitch, and yarn over and through each of the next 4 loops on the hook.
5. Bobble Increase**
Make 5 (or more) dc into the next stitch. Remove the hook from the loop and reinsert it into the base of the first dc. Remove the loop, then work a sl st through all loops on the hook.
6. Front Post Increase (fpi)**
Work around the post of the stitch in front of the current stitch, then work a sc or dc into the stitch.
7. Back Post Increase (bpi)**
Work around the post of the stitch behind the current stitch, then work a sc or dc into the stitch.
8. Popcorn Increase**
Make 3 sc into the next stitch. Yarn over, draw the loop through the first 2 loops on the hook, and yarn over and through the remaining 2 loops on the hook.
9. Cluster Increase**
Make 2 dc into the next stitch, then work a single, double, or triple crochet into the next stitch.
10. Spike Increase**
Work 1 sc into the next stitch. Work 2-5 dc around the post of the next stitch. Work 1 sc into the stitch.
| Increase Method | Creates |
|---|---|
| sc inc | 2 sc in the same stitch |
| hdc inc | 2 hdc in the same stitch |
| dc inc | 2 dc in the same stitch |
| tr inc | 2 tr in the same stitch |
| Bobble increase | 5+ sc in the same stitch |
| fpi | sc or dc around the front post |
| bpi | sc or dc around the back post |
| Popcorn increase | 3 sc and a popcorn stitch |
| Cluster increase | 2 dc and a single, double, or triple crochet |
| Spike increase | 1 sc, 2-5 dc around the post of the next stitch, and 1 sc |
How to Crochet an Increase
Increases are a fundamental technique in crochet that allows you to add stitches to your work, creating shaping and dimension. There are multiple ways to increase, each resulting in slightly different effects. Here’s a guide to the two most common increase stitches:
**Single Crochet Increase (sc inc):**
- Insert your hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over (yo) and draw up a loop.
- Yo again and draw through both loops on your hook.
- Yo and draw through the remaining two loops on your hook.
**Half Double Crochet Increase (hdc inc):**
- Yo and insert your hook into the next stitch.
- Yo and draw up a loop.
- Yo and draw through the first two loops on your hook.
- Yo and draw through the next two loops on your hook.
- Yo and draw through the remaining two loops on your hook.
People Also Ask
What is the difference between sc inc and hdc inc?
The main difference is the height of the stitch. Hdc inc produces a taller increase than sc inc, which results in a more pronounced shaping.
When do you use increases?
Increases are used to create shaping, such as a wider fabric, a curved edge, or a rounded shape. They can also be used to make decorative elements, like ruffled borders or shell stitches.
Can I increase at any time?
Not exactly. Increases should be placed at specific points in the pattern to maintain the desired shape and stitch count. Consulting the pattern instructions is always recommended.
