Beginner's Guide to Crochet - UK (2019-10)

SHAPING CROCHET

When you’re asked to work increases or decreases in your

double crochet fabric at the start of a row, it can be confusing

to know how to work these stitches in conjunction with the

turning chain.

The general rule is that it’s usually best to work the turning

chain first, as usual. Then work the increase (two dc stitches)

into the first stitch on the row below. Or work a dc2tog over

the first two stitches on the row below. But you should always

follow the instructions in your pattern.

Here’s how to work increases or decreases

when you’re at the start of a row

SHAPING AND

TURNING CHAINS

1

Start by inserting the hook under the top

two loops of the next stitch on the previous

row. Begin to work a double crochet stitch in the

usual way, working yrh and pull loop through

(2 loops on hook)

3

Now complete both dc stitches together by

working yrh and pull this loop through all 3

loops on the hook.

2

Without finishing the first dc, begin the next

dc by inserting the hook in the next stitch on

the previous row. Again, work yrh and pull loop

through (3 loops on hook).

4

Your finished dc2tog should look like this.

You will have decreased one stitch. On

subsequent rows, you can work a stitch into the

top of the dc2tog stitch, as usual.

If you’re left-handed, follow these steps for a perfect dc2tog...

LEFT-HAND

DOUBLE CROCHET INCREASED FABRIC

DOUBLE CROCHET DECREASED FABRIC