How to Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog)
Step-by-Step Tutorial

Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog) by Janice

In crochet, a decrease is used to reduce the number of stitches, shaping the fabric and adding structure to your project. The single crochet decrease, abbreviated as sc2tog, combines two stitches into one. It’s handy in projects like amigurumi, hats, sleeves, and anywhere you need your fabric to taper or curve.

A triangular shaped swatch of single crochet showing how decreases might appear.

Abbreviations and Chart Symbols

symbol for single crochet decrease stitches

About the Single Crochet Two Together

  • Single Crochet Two Together (sc2tog)
  • Purpose: Decreases two stitches into 1
  • Result: Stitch count decreases by 1
  • Used for: Gradual shaping, standard in amigurumi and garments

You may also need to decrease two stitches at one time.  This is called a single crochet three together or sc3tog.

About The Single Crochet Three Together (sc3tog)

  • Purpose: Decreases 3 stitches into 1
  • Result: Stitch count decreases by 2
  • Used for: Sharper shaping, corners, strong decreases (like in triangle patterns)

Supplies Needed

  • Yarn (light-colored and worsted weight is easiest to see)
  • Appropriate crochet hook for your yarn
  • Scissors
  • Tapestry needle (optional for weaving in ends)

Abbreviations

sc = single crochet

sc2tog  = single crochet two together (decrease)

yo = yarn over

ch = chain

st(s) = stitch/stitches

Skill Level

Project-Level-Basic.jpg

Basic – This is a great first decrease technique for new crocheters.

How to Single Crochet Decrease (sc2tog)

The sc2tog is worked across two stitches and results in one stitch.

Steps for making a single crochet decreace sctog

Step 1: Insert your hook into the next stitch.

Step 2: Yarn over and pull up a loop (you now have 2 loops on your hook).

Step 2 in making the single crochet decrease

Step 3: Insert your hook into the following stitch.

Step 4: Yarn over and pull up a loop again (you now have 3 loops on your hook).

step 3 of how to make a single crochet decrease stitch.

Step 5: Yarn over one last time and pull through all 3 loops on the hook.  That’s one single crochet decrease (sc2tog)!

Last step for making the single crochet decrease stitch.

How to Make the Single Crochet Three Together 

Insert hook into first stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop (2 loops)

Insert hook into second stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop (3 loops)

Insert hook into third stitch, yarn over, pull up a loop (4 loops)

Yarn over and pull through all 4 loops on the hook (3 stitches become 1)

Technique Stitches Worked Together Final Stitch Count Typical Use
sc2tog 2 stitches → 1 stitch Decreases by 1 Gradual shaping (amigurumi, hats, sleeves)
sc3tog 3 stitches → 1 stitch Decreases by 2 Sharpened shaping, corners, or aggressive decreases

Want to Practice with a Small Swatch?

Swatch of single crochet decreases, making the decreases in the middle of the row.Single Crochet Swatch, Working single crochet decrease stitches in the center of the row.

Chain 16.

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (15 sts)

Row 2: Sc across.  Ch 1 and turn. 

Row 3: Sc in first st and the sc across to end.  Ch 1 and turn.

Row 4: Sc5, sc2tog, sc1, sc2tog, sc 1, sc2tog, sc5.  Ch 1 and turn.

Row 5: Sc across (12 sts) Ch 1 and turn.

Row 6:  Sc4, sc2tog, sc2tog, sc4. (10 sts.)  Ch 1 and turn.

Row 7: Sc3, sc2tog, sc2tog, sc3. (8sts.)  Fasten off and weave in ends, if desired.

This mini swatch helps you get the feel for how the decrease subtly shapes your work.

Tips for Working sc2tog and sc3tog

  • Keep your tension even when pulling up loops.
  • Always count your stitches at the end of a row with decreases.
  • If your decrease looks bulky, try inserting the hook under the front loops only for an invisible version (often used in amigurumi).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sc2tog the same as decreasing in single crochet?

Yes. “Single crochet decrease” and “sc2tog” both refer to the same technique which is crocheting two stitches together.

Can I use sc2tog in the round?

Absolutely! It’s very common in circular projects like amigurumi.

My sc2tog looks bulky. How can I fix that?

Try the invisible decrease, which uses front loops only. It creates a smoother finish, especially for tight amigurumi.

Does sc2tog work with all yarn weights?

Yes, just match your hook size to your yarn.

Single Crochet Decrease Stitch Tutorial:  Pin for Future Reference

Single crochet decrease stitch how-to on a pin imageSingle Crochet Decrease Stitch

Conclusion

The single crochet decrease (sc2tog) is one of the first shaping skills every crocheter should master. With just a few practice rows, you’ll be ready to use it in real projects—from plush toys to wearable accessories.

Want to take your shaping skills further? Try invisible decreases or learn how to shape with half double and double crochet too!

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