How To Single Crochet Increase For Stunning Projects

Dive into the delightful crochet world – where each loop and twist tells a unique story. But here’s the fun part: there’s magic in mastering the increase.

Imagine, with a simple trick; you can transform flat fabrics into fantastical forms, giving birth to ruffles, shapes, and dreamy dimensions.

From a bird’s eye view, areas with increases seem slightly puffier or broader, giving the crochet piece its desired form and structure.

 

Difference Between Single Crochet And Single Crochet Increase

The difference between a single crochet and a single crochet increase boils down to their purpose and execution:

Single Crochet (sc):

• Purpose: It’s one of the basic crochet stitches used to create fabric.
• Execution: Insert your hook into the stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop. You’ll have two loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through both loops. That completes a single crochet.
• Appearance: One stitch sits atop a single stitch from the row or round below.

Single Crochet Increase (sc inc):

• Purpose: Used to add extra stitches to your work, allowing it to expand. This technique helps shape items like hats, amigurumi, or any project that requires growth in width or circumference.
• Execution: In the designated stitch, instead of doing one single Crochet, you’ll make two single crochets into that same stitch.
• Appearance: Two stitches will emerge from a single base point, giving the appearance of the fabric expanding at that spot.

Recommended Tools & Material

Yarn

Choose based on your project. Standard options include acrylic, cotton, wool, or blends. The yarn’s weight (e.g., lightweight, worsted, bulky) will dictate the hook size and the overall appearance of the increase.

Hook

The size should correspond to your yarn’s weight. For instance, worsted-weight yarn typically pairs well with a size H (5mm) hook, but always check the yarn label for guidance.

How To Increase A Single Crochet Stitch? 

Start Your Row/Round:

Begin as you usually would with a foundation chain or by working into the previous row or round.

Locate the Stitch:

Find the stitch where you want to add the increase. If you’re following a pattern, it will specify where to place the rise.

Insert Your Hook:

Insert your crochet hook into the specified stitch (or space, depending on your project).

Yarn Over:

Loop the yarn over (Yo) your crochet hook from back to front (commonly abbreviated as “yo”).

Pull Up a Loop:

Draw the yarn via the stitch. You should have two loops on your hook.

Yarn Over Again:

Loop the yarn over your hook a second time.

Complete the First Single Crochet:

Pull this second yarn over through both loops on your hook. You’ve now made one single crochet stitch in that space.

Return to the Same Stitch:

Without moving to the next stitch, insert your hook back into the same stitch you just worked into.

Repeat Steps 4-7:

It means you’ll make another single crochet stitch in the same space where you made the first one.

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How To Make An Invisible Increase In A Single Crochet? 

Identify the Stitch:

Determine where you’d like to place your invisible increase. If you’re following a pattern, it will specify the position.

Insert Your Hook:

Instead of inserting your hook under both top loops of the stitch (as you’d typically do for a standard single crochet), insert your hook only under the front loop of the stitch.

Yarn Over:

Loop the yarn over (Yo) your crochet hook from back to front.

Pull Up a Loop:

Draw the yarn via the front loop. You should have two loops on your hook.

Yarn Over Again:

Loop the yarn over your hook a second time.

Complete the First Half:

Pull this yarn over through just the first loop on your hook. You should still have two loops remaining on your hook.

Insert Your Hook Again:

Without moving on, insert your hook back into that same front loop.

Yarn Over:

Loop the yarn over (Yo) your crochet hook once more.

Pull Up Another Loop:

Draw this yarn loop through the front loop. You’ll now have three loops on your hook.

Yarn Over:

Loop the yarn over your hook again.

Complete the Increase:

Pull the yarn over through all three loops on your hook.

How To Increase Single Crochet In The Middle Of A Row? 

Start Your Row:

Work your row as usual, using single crochet stitches until you reach the point where you want to add your increase.

Identify the Stitch:

Determine the exact stitch where you want your increase. If following a pattern, this will usually be specified.

Insert Your Hook:

Insert your crochet hook into the designated stitch.

Yarn Over:

Loop the yarn over (Yo) your crochet hook from back to front.

Pull Up a Loop:

Draw the yarn via the stitch. You’ll now have two loops on your hook.

Yarn Over Again:

Loop the yarn over your hook a second time.

Complete the First Single Crochet:

Pull this yarn over through both loops on your hook. Now, you’ve made one single crochet stitch in that space.

Return to the Same Stitch:

Without moving to the next stitch, insert your hook back into the same stitch you just worked into.

Repeat Steps 4-7:

It means you’ll make another single crochet stitch in the same space where you completed the first one.

Continue Your Row:

Once your increase is done, continue single crocheting as usual until you reach the end of your row or until the subsequent required increase.

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How To Increase Single Crochet At The End Of A Row? 

Work Your Row:

Begin crocheting your row as you normally would, using single crochet stitches or, as per your pattern, working until you reach the final stitch of the row.

Identify the Last Stitch:

As you approach the end, take note of the last stitch in the row where you’ll be placing the increase.

Insert Your Hook:

Insert your crochet hook into the final stitch of the row.

Yarn Over:

Loop the yarn over (Yo) your crochet hook from back to front.

Pull Up a Loop:

Draw the yarn via the stitch. You should have two loops on your hook.

Yarn Over Again:

Loop the yarn over your hook a second time.

Complete the First Single Crochet:

Pull this yarn over through both loops on your hook. You’ve now made one single crochet stitch in the last space.

Return to the Same Stitch:

Without moving forward, insert your hook back into that same last stitch.

Repeat Steps 4-7:

It means you’ll make another single crochet stitch into the same space where you completed the first one.

Turn and Continue:

If you’re continuing with another row, you’d typically chain one (or as required by your pattern) and then turn your work to start the next row.

What Is The Chart Symbol For Single Crochet Increase?

In crochet charts, each stitch type has a unique symbol, making it easier to understand the pattern visually. The single crochet stitch is typically represented by an “X” or a “+” symbol.

For a single crochet increase, since you are placing two single crochet stitches into one stitch, you would see two “X” or “+” symbols in the same stitch space on the row below.

This overlapping or side-by-side placement indicates that two stitches are worked into one from the previous row or round.

However, it’s essential to always refer to the key or legend provided with the crochet chart. Symbols can vary based on the publisher or region, so the chart’s key will clarify the specific characters used.

What Are The Various Abbreviations For Single Crochet Increase?

In crochet patterns, abbreviations are frequently used to condense instructions and make designs more manageable to read. For the single crochet increase, the most common abbreviations include:

Sc Inc: This is the most widely recognized abbreviation. It stands for “single crochet increase.”

2 sc in next st: This is more of an instructional phrase than a short abbreviation. It instructs the crocheter to work two single crochet stitches in the next stitch, effectively creating an increase.

Inc: In patterns primarily focused on a single Crochet (like amigurumi), the stitch type might be implied, and “inc” alone could mean a single crochet increase.

How To Increase Single Crochet While Working In Round?

Starting the Round:

Begin with a slipknot and chain several stitches (often 2 or 4, depending on the project). Join with a slip stitch to form a circle, or use the magic ring method.

First Round (Foundation):

Single Crochet several stitches into the circle (e.g., 6 stitches). If you’re joining rounds, join the first stitch with a slip stitch, or continue working in a spiral if not.

Begin the Increase Round:

If you’re joining rounds, chain one to start the next game (this doesn’t count as a stitch). Start the next stitch if you’re working in a continuous spiral.

First Increase:

Place two single crochets (an increase) in each stitch from the previous game for the next round. It doubles the stitch count.

Continuing the Increases:

The increases will be spaced out in subsequent rounds to maintain a flat circle. For instance, in the next round, you might do one single Crochet in the first stitch, then an increase in the next, repeating this sequence all around.

In the following game, it might be one single Crochet in the first two stitches, then an increase, and so on.

Identifying Increase Positions:

If following a pattern, it will specify where to place your increases.

If not, a general rule of thumb when aiming for a flat circle is to add the same number of increases in each round as the initial foundation stitch count (e.g., if you started with 6 stitches, you’d typically add 6 increases in each subsequent game, evenly spaced).

Joining (If Applicable):

If you’re joining rounds, complete the round by slip stitching into the first single Crochet of that round. If working in a continuous spiral, keep cropping into the next stitch.

Using Stitch Markers:

Especially when working in a continuous spiral, using a stitch marker to mark the beginning of each round is beneficial. This way, you can easily track where the game starts and ends.

Continue Working:

Keep crocheting per your pattern or the desired shape, incorporating increases where needed.

How To Do Single Crochet Decrease?

Begin the Stitch:

Start as if you’re going to make a single crochet: Insert your hook into the next stitch.

Yarn Over:

Loop the yarn over your crochet hook from back to front.

Pull Up a Loop:

Draw the yarn via the stitch. You should have two loops on your hook.

Insert into the Next Stitch:

Without finishing the previous stitch, insert your hook into the following stitch.

Yarn Over Again:

Loop the yarn over (Yo) your crochet hook once more.

Pull Up Another Loop:

Draw the yarn via this stitch. You should have three loops on your hook.

Yarn Over and Complete:

Loop the yarn over (Yo) your crochet hook again, and then pull this yarn loop through all three loops on your hook.

Where To Use A Single Crochet Increase?

A single crochet increase is essential in shaping and expanding crocheted fabric. It’s often used in making hats to develop the crown or in amigurumi to shape body parts like heads and limbs.

In flat pieces, like triangular shawls or granny squares, increases help expand the work outward from a central point; for garments, growing aids in accommodating broader areas such as hips or bust.

When creating circular coasters or rugs, evenly spaced increases maintain a flat circle. Increasing and decreasing wavy or ripple patterns form the desired peaks and valleys.

Overall, the single crochet increase is fundamental for achieving diverse shapes and designs in crochet projects.

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More Projects To Practice Single Crochet Increase

Amigurumi Toys

Craft delightful 3D toys with intricate shapes and details. Use single-stitch increases to form rounded body parts like heads, limbs, or bellies.

Hats

Fashion cozy hats that snugly fit the contours of the head. Increases help expand the crown, ensuring a comfortable fit.

Gloves And Mittens

Craft handwear that hugs fingers and palms. Increases accommodate the widening part of the hand and thumb joints.

Scarves and Cowls

Design textured, wavy patterns in scarves or cowls using targeted increases for that ripple effect.

Baby Clothing

Create adorable outfits that cater to a baby’s growth spurts. Use increases for areas like the belly and hips.

Granny Squares And Motifs

Design beautiful motifs with expanding patterns. Increases help achieve their characteristic square or circular shapes.

Circular Tablecloths Or Doilies

Craft elegant table decor with intricate radial patterns. Evenly spaced increases ensure a flat, circular shape.

Bags And Purses

Design chic bags with a widening base or flare. Increases add both function and flair to your accessory.

Shawls And Wraps

Fashion stunning wraps that drape gracefully. Increases help create triangular or crescent shapes, adding depth and style.

Coasters and Home Decor

Enhance your living space with decorative items like coasters or wall hangings. Increases ensure symmetry and pattern integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is A Single Crochet Stitch, And How Is It Different From Other Crochet Stitches?

Single crochet is a basic crochet stitch that creates a tight and dense fabric. It differs from other stitches like double crochet or half-double crochet in terms of height and the number of yarn overs during the process.

Can I Use Single Crochet For Amigurumi Projects, Or Is It Better Suited For Different Crochet Styles?

Yes, single crochet is commonly used in amigurumi projects because of its tight and compact nature, which helps in creating well-defined shapes and preventing stuffing from showing through.

How Do I Make My Single Crochet Stitches Neat And Even, Especially As A Beginner?

To make neat and even single crochet stitches, practice consistent tension on the yarn and ensure that you insert your hook under both loops of the previous stitch. Using the correct hook size for your yarn also contributes to evenness.

Are There Any Common Mistakes I Should Watch Out For When Working With A Single Crochet?

Common mistakes include accidentally skipping stitches, working too tightly or too loosely, and not properly finishing the stitch. Pay attention to your tension and count stitches to avoid errors.

Can I Adjust The Tension In My Single Crochet Stitches To Achieve Different Effects In My Crochet Projects?

Adjusting tension in your single crochet stitches can give you various textures and effects. Looser tension can create a more relaxed, drapey fabric, while tighter tension results in a stiffer, more structured piece. Experiment to achieve your desired look.