Different Detailed Ways to Increase in Crochet
As a crocheter, you must be aware that an increase in crochet allows you to widen fabric appearance, and mastering the technique will open endless opportunities. Increases offer shape and structure to your project, whether you're making beautiful scarves, hats, or socks with crochet hooks. It is a beautiful technique that turns a flat item into a shape of your choice. Every crocheter must learn the increase method. Let's explore the several ways to expand crochet through this detailed blog.
What is an increase in crochet?
This is the simple way of adding a stitch to the project by crocheting two or multiple stitches into the same stitch. A crochet increase gives you more stitches for your round or row projects. This method is the foundation of shaping projects. You can change the shape and size of your work by adding stitches. Get ready to learn various methods of increases.
Methods to increase crochet
Here are some methods that will help in increasing the stitches:
1. Single increase method: This is the simplest method of increasing in which two stitches must be made in the same spot.
Step 1: Put your hook into the stitch where you want to increase with a single-ended crochet hook.
Step 2: Finish your first single crochet stitch by yarning over and pulling through.
Step 3: Repeat by inserting your hook into the same stitch.
Use: This technique can be applied to minor rounded items like hats, or coasters.
2. Multiple increase method: You can add numerous stitches equally across a row or circle according to the pattern requirements.
Step 1: Split up all of your stitches into equal parts.
Step 2: Within those parts, add the designated number of increases.
Step 3: To keep track of your spacing, use stitch markers.
3. Increase stitches invisibly: You can easily increase the stitches in the round or row without leaving the hole or bump.
Step 1: First of all, identify the row or round where you want to add the stitch.
Step 2: Insert your hook into that stitch and crochet the stitch.
Step 3: Instead of moving further, yarn over again and work on the second stitch. You have increased the stitch count by one, by working two stitches into the same stitch.
Moreover, you can crochet more than two stitches into a single stitch, and expand your fabric.
4. Increasing at the Edges
When creating triangle-shaped bunting, shawls, or scarves, edge increases are crucial.
Steps 1: Work two stitches on the row's first or last stitch.
Step 2: Follow the same pattern across the row.
The increase is ideal for a star-shaped Christmas wall hanging or a warm winter shawl.
5. Increase stitches in a flat circle
Flat circles are not only useful as a base for hats, but also for baskets, or bags. First, decide the number of increases per round. For example, if you start with 6 stitches in the first round, you would increase the second round by 12 stitches, and so on. Let’s take the example of simple coasters.
Step 1: First make a magic circle.
Step 2: Then, chain 2 and 10 DC into the magic circle in the first round.
Step 3: Join the circle with a slip stitch.
Step 4: In the second round, again chain 2 and 2 DC in a single stitch, making a total of 20 DC into the magic circle.
Step 3: In this way continue the process, until you reach the desired shape. Increase 1 stitch in every round like 3 DC in the third round.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To keep the pattern intact, make sure you work into the appropriate stitch following an increase.
If you use too many stitches your project may become uneven or wavy.
To make sure your increases fit correctly, always check your gauge when following a pattern.
Tips/Suggestions for smooth increases
● Count your stitches: Don't lose track of your progress because it can distort the shape.
● Work on small projects: Increase your skills on easy coasters or decorations before taking on a big winter blanket.
● Pick patterns carefully: Patterns that are easy for beginners to learn are excellent. To test your abilities, try a crochet snowflake pattern.
Gaining more crochet skills is a fun experience, these methods will make your crafts a life, whether you're using a single-ended or Tunisian crochet hook. Increases provide you the opportunity to create, style, and celebrate the season with handcrafted love, from warm scarves to elaborate ornaments. So, gather some colorful yarn and a crochet hook set, and begin creating unique and versatile items.