Are you tired of visible bumps and unsightly gaps when decreasing stitches in your crochet projects, especially in delicate amigurumi? You’re not alone! Traditional single crochet two together (sc2tog) decreases can often leave behind noticeable holes where stuffing can peek through, detracting from the professional finish of your handmade treasures.

Thankfully, there’s a simple yet revolutionary technique that will transform your creations: the invisible decrease stitch crochet. This method lives up to its name, creating a decrease that blends seamlessly into your fabric, making it nearly impossible to spot.

Why the Invisible Decrease Stitch Crochet is a Game-Changer for Amigurumi

The invisible decrease is an absolute must-have in your crochet toolkit, particularly if you love making amigurumi – those adorable crocheted toys and animals. Unlike standard decreases, which can result in a small bump, a slanted stitch, or a gap, the invisible decrease maintains an even, smooth fabric. This means:

• No More Gaps: Say goodbye to those annoying holes where your stuffing shows through, ensuring your amigurumi looks neat and professional.
• Seamless Finish: Your decreases will be virtually undetectable, giving your projects a polished and store-bought quality.
• Smoother Shaping: Achieve beautifully curved and sculpted shapes without compromising the integrity of your stitches.

What You’ll Need

For this tutorial, we’ll be demonstrating the invisible decrease using a DK (double knitting) weight yarn, specifically Rico RuMi 100% cotton DK yarn, paired with a 2.5mm (US size C) crochet hook. This is a common combination for amigurumi projects. However, the fantastic news is that this technique is incredibly versatile and will work wonderfully with any yarn weight and corresponding hook size you choose!

How to Work the Invisible Decrease Stitch Crochet (Step-by-Step)

The invisible decrease is worked over two stitches and, once mastered, becomes an intuitive motion. Here’s how to do it:

1. Identify Your Stitches: Locate the next two stitches where you want to create your decrease.
2. Front Loop Only (First Stitch): Insert your crochet hook into the *front loop only* of the first stitch. You should have two loops on your hook.
3. Front Loop Only (Second Stitch): Without yarning over, immediately insert your hook into the *front loop only* of the very next stitch. You will now have three loops on your hook.
4. First Yarn Over and Pull Through: Yarn over and pull that yarn through the first two loops on your hook. You should now have two loops remaining on your hook.
5. Second Yarn Over and Finish: Yarn over again and pull through the remaining two loops on your hook.

And just like that, you’ve completed an invisible decrease! When you look closely, you’ll see why it’s so effective – it truly is almost impossible to tell where the decrease was made.

Watch the Invisible Decrease in Action

Sometimes, seeing a technique in motion is the best way to learn. Watch Angela from Burso Knits demonstrate the invisible decrease stitch crochet in this helpful video tutorial:

Practice Makes Perfect!

This technique might take a couple of tries to get the hang of, but like the magic ring, it’s a skill that’s so incredibly useful, you’ll wonder how you ever crocheted without it! Incorporating the invisible decrease stitch crochet into your projects will significantly elevate their quality and give them a professional, polished appearance.

We hope this tutorial has been helpful and inspires you to create even more beautiful, seamless crochet pieces. If you enjoyed this guide, please give it a thumbs up and consider subscribing for future crochet tips and tutorials every weekend!