The SC2TOG crochet stitch, short for “single crochet two together,” is a basic decrease technique used to shape your crochet projects. Whether you’re working on amigurumi, garments, or hats, this stitch helps reduce stitches in a neat and controlled way. It’s essential for creating curves, slopes, and three-dimensional shapes in your crochet fabric.
What is SC2TOG Crochet?
SC2TOG means you are combining two single crochet stitches into one. This reduces the total number of stitches by one and is commonly used for shaping edges or forming curves in your project. It’s particularly useful when working on rounded items like stuffed toys or when tapering sleeves and hats.
When to Use SC2TOG Crochet
- To decrease the stitch count in a row or round
- When shaping the crown of a hat
- To create curves in amigurumi or stuffed animals
- In garments like sweaters or cardigans for tapering
How to Use SC2TOG Crochet Step-by-Step
Follow these steps using US crochet terms:
- Insert your hook into the next stitch
- Yarn over and pull up a loop (you now have two loops on your hook)
- Insert your hook into the next stitch
- Yarn over and pull up another loop (you now have three loops on your hook)
- Yarn over and pull through all three loops on your hook
You’ve just completed a single crochet two together (SC2TOG) stitch. You’ll see that two stitches are now combined into one.
Tips for Working SC2TOG
- Keep your tension consistent to avoid puckering
- Use stitch markers when decreasing regularly in a pattern
- For seamless results in visible areas, use invisible decrease methods (especially in amigurumi)
- Always check if the pattern wants you to place the SC2TOG in specific stitch locations like at the beginning or middle of a row
SC2TOG vs Invisible Decrease
In some cases, particularly with tight projects like amigurumi, you may be instructed to use an invisible SC2TOG. It’s worked by inserting the hook only through the front loops of the next two stitches before completing the stitch, which results in a cleaner look.
Where SC2TOG Crochet Appears in Patterns
You’ll find SC2TOG used in:
- Toy patterns (amigurumi) – for shaping heads, limbs, and bodies
- Hats – for decreasing the crown
- Sweaters or tops – to taper the sleeves or waist
- Slippers and socks – for shaping the heel or toe
- Blankets or motifs – if the pattern uses shaping for design elements
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Skipping only one stitch instead of two – always count the stitches you’re combining
- Not pulling loops to the same height – this can create uneven tension
- Accidentally doing a regular SC – be sure to complete the full SC2TOG process
- Crocheting too tightly – loosen your grip slightly to make pulling through all loops easier
Conclusion
The SC2TOG crochet stitch is a foundational technique that adds structure and shaping to your projects. Once you’re familiar with it, you’ll see how versatile and useful it is for a wide range of patterns, from simple scarves to complex amigurumi designs. Practice it in a small swatch and then apply it confidently in your next project that calls for shaping or decreasing.