Introduction
Double crochet increase (dc inc) , also known as 2 double crochets in same stitch, is a technique for working two Double crochet stitches in the same stitch. This is one of the most commonly used increase methods. By working two stitches into one, you can effectively increase the stitch count, making the fabric gradually widen or form specific shapes.
In English, this is called Double Crochet Increase or 2 dc in same stitch, abbreviated as dc inc or 2dc. In diagrams, it's usually represented by two double crochet symbols starting from the same point.
This increase method is widely used in various projects:
- Round projects: Hats, coasters, amigurumi and other items that need to expand from center outward
- Widening sections: Clothing, skirt hems and other parts that need to gradually widen
- Design shaping: Creating ruffles, waves and other decorative effects
Tools You'll Need
Before practicing double crochet increase, prepare the following tools:
- Crochet hook: Recommended 3.0mm or 3.5mm hook
- Yarn: Choose medium-weight cotton or wool yarn in a bright color for easier stitch observation
- Scissors: For cutting yarn
- Stitch markers: Optional, for marking increase positions
Practice Recommendation
Beginners should practice with one color first, then try applying it in projects after getting familiar with the movements. You can practice one row of double crochet first, then practice increases in the next row.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1Step 1
Work one double crochet, yarn over, then insert the hook into the same chain stitch as shown by the arrow. Yarn over again and pull through. This is the key step to start the second double crochet in the same stitch.
2Step 2
Yarn over again, pull through two loops, work a double crochet. Complete this stitch following the normal double crochet method.
3Step 3
Two double crochets have been worked into one stitch, showing an increase of one stitch. You can see two double crochets standing side by side, with the stitch count increased by 1.
Stitch Count Changes
The stitch count change rule for double crochet increase:
| Original Stitches | Operation | Resulting Stitches | |------------------|-----------|-------------------| | 1 stitch | Work 2 double crochets in this stitch | 2 stitches | | N stitches | Work 2 double crochets in one stitch | N+1 stitches |
Counting Key: One original stitch becomes two stitches, increasing the count by 1.
Tips & Tricks
Keep Stitches Even
When increasing, pay attention to keeping the tension of both double crochets consistent. If the first stitch is too tight, the second stitch will be difficult to insert. If both stitches are too loose, the fabric will show noticeable holes.
Insertion Position
When working the second stitch in the same stitch, ensure you insert from the exact same position. If the insertion position shifts, the stitches may become uneven.
Regular Increases
In round projects, usually you need to follow a regular increase pattern. For example: increase once every X stitches. Use stitch markers to mark increase positions for easy tracking.
Common Mistakes
Large holes appear at the increase position, what should I do?
This is a common issue, usually because the two double crochets are pulled too far apart. Solution: Control the tension of each stitch, especially when inserting for the second stitch after completing the first. Don't pull the loops too wide. You can slightly tighten between the two stitches to bring them closer together.
Stitch count is wrong after increasing, what should I do?
Incorrect stitch count usually comes from forgetting which stitch to increase in or repeating the increase. Use stitch markers to mark the positions where increases are needed, and carefully count stitches after completion. For round projects, count the total stitch count after each round.
Stitches at increase point are slanted, what should I do?
Slanted stitches may be because the insertion positions of the two double crochets are inconsistent, or tension is uneven. Solution: Ensure the second stitch is inserted from exactly the same point as the first. After completion, you can gently adjust by hand to make the two stitches stand side by side.
Difference from Single Crochet Increase
Double crochet increase and Single crochet increase share the same principle-both work two stitches in the same stitch-but have these differences:
- Different height: Double crochet increase produces more than twice the height of single crochet increase
- Different effect: Double crochet increase adds width while also increasing height
- Application: Double crochet increase suits projects that need quick expansion, like hat tops, large coasters, etc.
Related Stitches
After mastering double crochet increase, you can continue learning these related stitches:
- : The foundation stitch for double crochet increase-master it first
- : The opposite operation for decreasing stitches
- : Similar increase technique for single crochet projects
Practice Suggestions
Beginners should follow these steps for practice:
- Basic practice: First crochet a row of double crochet as foundation
- Single increase: Increase in each stitch, feel the stitch count change
- Regular increases: Try "increase every 1" or "increase every 2" patterns
- Round practice: Practice round crochet starting from center, with regular increases each round
When you can evenly complete double crochet increases, you can try making hats, coasters and other projects that require increases.
Double crochet increase is one of the most practical techniques in crochet. Mastering it will help you create various beautifully shaped projects!