Decreasing
Decreases are usually made by working 2 or more stitches together. (Note: the same methods of working 2 or more stitches together are used to create a multitude of pattern stitches and these are always given in crochet patterns).
Working 2 double crochet stitches together (dc2tog)
1. Insert the hook into next stitch (or as required), wrap the yarn round the hook, and draw a loop through (Fig.132).
2. Repeat this step into the next stitch, (3 loops on hook) (Fig.133).
3. Wrap the yarn and draw through all 3 loops on hook – 1 double crochet decreased (Fig.134).
Working 3 double crochet stitches together (dc3tog)
Work as for dc2tog until there are 3 loops on hook.
1. Insert hook into a third stitch, wrap the yarn and draw through a loop, (4 loops on the hook) (Fig.135).
2. Wrap the yarn and draw through all 4 loops on hook – 2 double crochet decreased (Fig.136).
Working 2 treble stitches together (tr2tog)
1. Wrap the yarn round the hook, insert the hook into the next stitch (or as required), wrap the yarn, draw a loop through, wrap the yarn and draw through 2 of the loops on hook (2 loops left on the hook) (Fig.137).
2. Repeat this step into the next stitch, (3 loops on the hook) (Fig.138).
3. Wrap the yarn and draw through all 3 loops on hook – 1 treble decreased.
Working 3 treble stitches together (tr3tog)
Work as for tr2tog until there are 3 loops on hook, repeat step 1 once more, wrap yarn and draw through all 4 loops on hook (Fig.139) – 2 trebles decreased (Fig.140).
