Master Amigurumi with Increase and Invisible Decrease Techniques

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What are Increases and Invisible Decreases?
3. How Increases and Invisible Decreases are Used for Shaping Amigurumi
   • Evenly Spaced Increases and Invisible Decreases
   • Non-Uniform Increases and Invisible Decreases
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Increases in Amigurumi
   • Starting with a Magic Circle
   • Counting Stitches
   • Making Increase Stitches
5. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Invisible Decreases in Amigurumi
   • Identifying Front Loops and Back Loops
   • Combining Stitches with Invisible Decreases
6. Recap of Stitch Count After Increases and Invisible Decreases
7. Conclusion

Increases and Invisible Decreases: Shaping Your Amigurumi

Amigurumi, the Japanese art of crocheting or knitting small stuffed dolls or animals, has gained immense popularity in recent years. One of the key factors that give these adorable creations their shape is the use of increases and invisible decreases. In this article, we will delve into the world of increases and invisible decreases, exploring how they are used to shape amigurumi and providing a step-by-step guide on how to execute them effectively.

1. Introduction

Amigurumi is not just about creating cute and cuddly creatures; it's also about bringing them to life with carefully crafted shaping techniques. Increases and invisible decreases play a crucial role in achieving the desired shape and proportions of your amigurumi projects. Whether you are making a round sphere or tapering a body part, mastering these techniques is essential.

2. What are Increases and Invisible Decreases?

Increases and invisible decreases are techniques used in amigurumi to shape the crochet stitches and alter the size and form of the project. Increases involve adding extra stitches in a specific pattern, while invisible decreases decrease the number of stitches in a way that leaves no visible gaps or disruptions in the design. These techniques allow you to control the width and height of your amigurumi, giving it the desired shape and structure.

3. How Increases and Invisible Decreases are Used for Shaping Amigurumi

Evenly Spaced Increases and Invisible Decreases

One common method of shaping amigurumi is by using evenly spaced increases and invisible decreases. This technique ensures a symmetrical and uniform look, ideal for creating round or spherical shapes. By increasing the number of stitches evenly in each round, the amigurumi piece gradually expands, creating a smooth and consistent curve. Conversely, using evenly spaced invisible decreases allows you to taper the shape of the amigurumi, making it narrower or creating a pointed end.

Non-Uniform Increases and Invisible Decreases

While evenly spaced increases and invisible decreases yield a uniform look, sometimes you may want to create a more organic or asymmetric shape. By strategically placing increases and decreases at different intervals, you can achieve a non-uniform appearance. This technique is particularly useful when shaping specific body parts like ears, snouts, or tails. The carefully planned placement of increases and invisible decreases adds character and individuality to your amigurumi creations.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Increases in Amigurumi

To execute increases in amigurumi, follow these simple steps:

Starting with a Magic Circle

Before you begin increasing, you'll typically start with a magic circle that has six single crochets worked into it. This provides a solid foundation for the subsequent rounds.

Counting Stitches

To ensure accuracy while making increases, it's essential to count your stitches correctly. Identify each stitch by its "V" shape, with the bottom portion of the "V" representing a single crochet. By maintaining an accurate stitch count, you can achieve the desired shape.

Making Increase Stitches

To make an increase stitch, you will be placing two single crochets into a single stitch. Insert your hook into the designated stitch, yarn over, and pull through, leaving the first loop on your hook. Then, insert your hook into the same stitch again, yarn over, and pull through, resulting in two loops on your hook. Yarn over once more and pull through both loops, completing the increase stitch. Repeat this process in the required number of stitches to achieve the desired shape.

5. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Invisible Decreases in Amigurumi

To execute invisible decreases in amigurumi, follow these simple steps:

Identifying Front Loops and Back Loops

When working on invisible decreases, it's crucial to differentiate between front loops and back loops. The front loops are the loops closer to you, while the back loops are further away. For invisible decreases, you only need to work with the front loops.

Combining Stitches with Invisible Decreases

To execute an invisible decrease, insert your hook into the front loop of the next two stitches that you haven't worked into. Leave the back loop alone. This creates two loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through only the first two loops, leaving two loops on your hook. Finally, yarn over once more and pull through both loops, completing the invisible decrease. Repeat this process in the required number of stitches to achieve the desired shaping effect.

6. Recap of Stitch Count After Increases and Invisible Decreases

After making increases and invisible decreases, it's essential to recount your stitches to ensure accuracy. Increases will add to the stitch count, while decreases will reduce it. Keeping track of the stitch count is crucial for maintaining the desired shape and proportions of your amigurumi.

7. Conclusion

Increases and invisible decreases are powerful shaping techniques in the world of amigurumi. By mastering these techniques, you gain control over the size, form, and proportions of your creations. Whether you're aiming for a uniform shape or a more organic look, incorporating increases and invisible decreases can bring your amigurumi to life. Experiment with different patterns and techniques, and have fun giving your creations their unique personality.