Crochet Increases: How to Add Shape Cleanly

An increase usually means working more than one stitch into the same stitch or space. Where those additions sit determines the curve, corner or flare.

Read what is increasing

Instructions may say “2 sc in next st,” “increase,” or use a pattern-specific abbreviation. Confirm the stitch type and how many stitches belong in the same insertion point.

Mark the location

For repeated shaping, place a marker in the first stitch of the increase or in the point where the increase occurs. Move it each round or row. This prevents the shaping line from drifting.

Spread or stack deliberately

Stacked increases create a visible shaping line or corner. Staggered increases distribute fullness and can make a round shape appear smoother. Follow the designer’s placement before improvising.

Count the result

The row or round should gain the number of stitches implied by the increases. Count immediately; an increase placed correctly but counted incorrectly still affects every later instruction.

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