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