Master Inc & Dec — Shape Any Amigurumi Perfectly 📐
Every amigurumi shape — from a perfectly round head to a tapered tail — is created entirely through increases and decreases. These two techniques are the engine of amigurumi construction. Learn them well and you can crochet literally any shape imaginable.
What Are Increases and Decreases?
An increase (inc) adds a stitch — you crochet 2 sc into the same stitch, widening the piece. A decrease (dec) removes a stitch — you combine two stitches into one, narrowing the piece. By balancing these, you create spheres, ovals, cones, and every other 3D form.
How to Increase (inc) — Step by Step
- Insert hook into the stitch as normal
- Work a complete single crochet
- Insert hook into the same stitch again
- Work another complete single crochet
- Result: 2 sc in 1 stitch = 1 increase
A standard increase round adds 6 stitches per round when spaced evenly across 6 "sections" of the circle.
Standard Decrease (dec / sc2tog)
- Insert hook into next stitch, pull up a loop (2 loops on hook)
- Insert hook into the following stitch, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook)
- Yarn over, pull through all 3 loops
- Result: 2 stitches combined into 1
This is also called sc2tog (single crochet two together). It works but leaves a small visible bump.
Invisible Decrease (invdec) — The Amigurumi Standard
The invisible decrease gives a much cleaner result and is preferred for amigurumi:
- Insert hook through the front loop only of the next stitch
- Insert hook through the front loop only of the stitch after that
- Yarn over, pull through both front loops (2 loops on hook)
- Yarn over, pull through both loops
- Result: Flat, nearly invisible join
Always use invdec for amigurumi faces and bodies where appearance matters.
How Increases Build a Sphere
Rnd 1: MR, 6 sc [6] ← start Rnd 2: inc x6 [12] ← +6 Rnd 3: *sc, inc* x6 [18] ← +6 Rnd 4: *2sc, inc* x6 [24] ← +6 Rnd 5: *3sc, inc* x6 [30] ← +6 Rnd 6-10: sc around [30] ← straight Rnd 11: *3sc, dec* x6 [24] ← -6 Rnd 12: *2sc, dec* x6 [18] ← -6 Rnd 13: *sc, dec* x6 [12] ← -6 STUFF NOW Rnd 14: dec x6 [6] ← -6 close
Common Mistakes
- Increasing in the wrong stitch — always mark your increase stitches with a pin
- Uneven increases — space them evenly or your sphere will be lumpy
- Using sc2tog instead of invdec — the bump shows through the fabric
- Decreasing too late — stuff your piece before the opening gets too small
🧶 Practice with Real Patterns
The best way to master inc and dec is to actually make something. Our 50+ No-Sew Amigurumi Bundle ($14.90) has 50+ patterns that guide you through every increase and decrease with stitch counts at every round.
FAQ
How do I know where to place my increases?
The pattern will tell you — follow the stitch count exactly. For example, *sc, inc* x6 means alternate one sc and one inc, six times total.
Why does my sphere look lumpy?
Your increases are not evenly spaced. Make sure you complete the full *sc, inc* or *2sc, inc* pattern consistently all the way around.
What is the difference between dec and invdec?
Both remove one stitch, but invdec works through front loops only, creating a flat invisible join. Regular dec creates a visible bump. Use invdec for amigurumi.
Can I use increases and decreases in rows?
Yes — they work the same way in rows. You use them to shape flat pieces like animal ears or leaves.
When should I stop decreasing and close the piece?
Stop when you have 6 stitches remaining, stuff firmly first, then fasten off and close with a yarn needle.
