Lesson 9: Increasing

The Increase

Increasing is exactly as it sounds. We’re adding stitches to a row. To increase one stitch (regardless if it’s single, half double, double, etc) you merely stitch two stitches in the same stitch.

Let’s practice with single crochet stitches as that is what we use the most in amigurumi. Make a quick 10stitch long single crochet piece. Stitch 2 rows to give yourself some room. Head back to the first lesson if you need help with this.

Once you’re done with that start increasing along the row with every other stitch. First stitch, regular single crochet. Increase in the next stitch (2 single crochets in the same stitch). Regular single crochet in the next stitch. Increase in the next stitch (2 single crochets in the same stitch). Continue this all the way through the row. At the end count your stitches. You should have 15 stitches.

Next row stitch all regular single crochets (15) so you start with a fresh row. Now instead of doing every other stitch. Do 2 regular single crochet stitches and then an increase. Repeat that sequence throughout the row. You should have 20 stitches at the end of the row.

Take a look at your work and notice how the increases have changed the shape. It’s no longer a square or rectangle. Study your work and recognize all the increases you’ve made and how they look different. This will be helpful to catch any mistakes you make in the future if you happen to accidentally crochet in the same stitch.

Homework

Practice increasing!

Take a piece of 12 sc stitches, 2 rows, to give you a good foundation. The next row increase every other stitch. Once you get the hang of that practice with other stitches. Half double crochet, double crochet, and triple crochet. Notice how differently these pieces take shape with each increase.