How to Increase Crochet Circle

Crocheting a perfect circle can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned crafter. It provides a fundamental building block for a plethora of projects, ranging from coasters and doilies to hats and amigurumi.

However, a good understanding of the technique involved in increasing stitches systematically is required to ensure that the circle remains flat and without unwanted ripples or waves. This guide will walk you through the essential steps on how to increase crochet circle and tips on how to effectively increase your crochet circle, helping you achieve smooth and consistent results in your crocheting endeavors.

What is an Increase Stitch?

An increase stitch is a technique used in crocheting to add stitches to your work, resulting in a larger circumference. This is achieved by working multiple stitches into the same stitch or space. There are various types of increase stitches, such as single crochet increases, half-double crochet increases, and double crochet increases. Each type of increase stitch has its own unique method and effect on the final appearance of your circle.

You can also increase your circle by using a Magic Ring or Magic Circle, which is a technique that allows you to create an adjustable loop for crocheting in the round, resulting in a seamless and tight center for your circle. This is especially useful when creating amigurumi or other projects that require a closed center.

Why is it Important to Increase Stitches?

Increasing stitches is crucial when creating a circular shape in crochet because it creates a gradual expansion of the fabric. Without proper increasing techniques, your circle may end up looking more like a hexagon or octagon rather than a smooth and even round shape. Additionally, increasing stitches also provide structure and stability to your project, preventing it from becoming too tight or puckered.

You may need to increase stitches when working on projects such as hats, where the circumference of your project needs to gradually increase to fit the head. Increasing stitches can also be used to create shaping in garments, such as sleeves and yokes.

10 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Increase Crochet Circle:

Step 1: Start with a Slip Knot

To begin your project, create a slip knot and place it on your crochet hook. This will serve as your  first stitch. You can also use a Magic Ring if desired. You can find many tutorials online on how to create a Magic Ring. Although it may seem intimidating at first, with practice, it will become second nature.

Step 2: Chain

Chain the desired number of stitches for your project. For a simple circle, you can start with six chains if working single crochet or four chains if working half double crochet or double crochet. This will serve as the foundation of your circle. You can adjust the number of chains depending on the size of your circle.

Step 3: Make a Slip Stitch

Insert your hook into the first chain and make a slip stitch. This will form a ring, which will serve as your starting point for working in the round. It is essential to make sure that the stitches are not too tight or too loose, as this will affect the tension of your project. But don’t worry; with practice, you will find the perfect tension for your stitches.

Step 4: Make an Increase Stitch

For a single crochet, insert your hook into the next stitch and make a single crochet. To increase this stitch, work another single crochet into the same stitch. For half double crochet and double crochet, wrap your yarn around the hook before inserting it into the next stitch and continue as usual for that specific stitch. This creates an extra loop on your hook, which will result in an increase.

Step 5: Repeat Increases

Continue increasing each stitch around until you reach the end of the round. If you started with six chains, you should now have twelve stitches if working single crochet or eight stitches if working half double crochet or double crochet. It is essential to count your stitches after each round to ensure that you have the correct number.

Step 6: Work in Spiral

Unlike traditional crocheting, where you join rounds with a slip stitch, when working in the round, you will continue working without joining. This creates a spiral effect, which gives a seamless appearance to your circle. You can use a stitch marker or a piece of contrasting yarn to mark the end of each round.

Step 7: Continue Increasing

In the next round, increase in every other stitch. This means that you will work one single crochet into the first stitch and then two single crochets into the next stitch, repeating this pattern until you reach the end of the round. For half double crochet or double crochet, you will increase in every third stitch.

Step 8: Adjust the Number of Increases

The number of increases needed for each round will depend on the size and shape of your project. As a general rule, the number of stitches in each round should be double the number of stitches from the previous round. You can also add more or fewer increases to achieve your desired shape.

Step 9: Experiment with Different Increase Stitches

Don’t be afraid to try different types of increased stitches to create unique looks for your projects. For example, instead of simply adding an extra stitch in one stitch, you can work two single crochets into one stitch or use a half-double crochet increase by working two half-double crochets into one stitch. Play around with different techniques to see which one suits your project best.

Step 10: Practice and Have Fun!

As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Don’t get discouraged if your first few circles don’t turn out the way you want them to. With time and patience, you will master the art of increasing stitches in crocheting circles. And most importantly, have fun with it! Crocheting is a creative outlet that allows you to express your personality through yarn and stitches.

Following these ten steps on how to increase crochet circle will give you a solid foundation for increasing stitches in crochet circles. With practice and experimentation, you can create circles of various sizes and shapes to add to your projects. So grab your hook and yarn, and let’s get crocheting! Happy crafting!  Overall, the skill of increasing stitches in crochet is essential for creating beautiful circular shapes in your projects. By following these steps, you can confidently increase stitches in your crochet circles and achieve the desired size and shape for your project. Remember to practice, have fun, and let your creativity flow while crocheting!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is It Necessary to Increase Stitches in Crochet Circles?

A: Increasing stitches provides structure and stability to your project, preventing it from becoming too tight or puckered. It also allows your project to gradually increase in size, making it perfect for projects such as hats or sleeves.

Q: Can I Use Different Increase Stitches in Crochet Circles?

A: Yes! Experimenting with different increased stitches can give unique effects and shapes to your crochet circles. Some common increase stitches include working two single crochets into one stitch or using the half double crochet increase by working two half double crochets into one stitch.

Q: How Many Increases Should I Make in Each Round?

A: The number of increases needed will depend on the size and shape of your project. As a general rule, the number of stitches in each round should be double the number of stitches from the previous round. However, you can adjust this number to achieve your desired shape. Remember to count your stitches after each round to ensure accuracy.

Q: Is It Necessary to Join Rounds When Working in the Round?

A: No, when working in the round, you will continue without joining rounds, creating a seamless spiral effect. You can use markers or contrasting yarn to mark the end of each round if needed.

Q: What If My Stitches Are Too Tight or Loose?

A: Finding the right tension for your stitches may take some practice and experimentation. If your stitches are too tight, try loosening your grip on the yarn and hook. If they are too loose, try holding onto the yarn more firmly. With time and patience, you will find the perfect tension for your projects.  And don’t be afraid to experiment with different hook sizes and yarn types to achieve the desired tension. 

Conclusion

Mastering the technique of increasing stitches in crochet circles is a foundational skill that opens up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you are crafting hats, garments, or decorative items, the ability to properly increase stitches will ensure your projects not only fit well but also maintain a professional and polished appearance. Remember that consistency and tension are key to achieving smooth, even shapes.

Keep practicing experimenting with different stitches, and don’t shy away from trying new patterns. As you become more confident, you will find yourself creating intricate and stunning pieces with ease. Thanks for reading this article on how to increase crochet circle.