How to Subtract Stitches from a Spiral

Subtracting stitches from your crochet project causes a flat project to gain a curve. Projects like hats, cup holders and socks make use of subtraction (also known as decreasing). Use this simple method for your projects that require circular or rounded shaping.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Complete your project up to the point where you need to start the curve. If you're working a spiral, make your first stitch in the first stitch of the last round.

2. Work one single crochet (sc) in the first stitch of the last round. Skip the next stitch of the last round.

3. Begin after the skipped stitch. Single crochet (sc) into each of the next two stitches of the last round. Skip the next stitch.

4. Continue working one stitch in each of the next two stitches and skipping the third stitch. Repeat this pattern until you reach the end of the round.

5. Repeat Step 1 to 4 for each round in which you need to continue the curve. Attach a safety pin or bit of yarn to the start of each round, to count the number of rounds you work.

6. Observe your project after working several rounds. If the curve is too tight or too loose, you may need to adjust the frequency in which you skip stitches. Pull out the stitches and re-work your subtracting rounds, if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Create a more shallow curve, work one in each of the next three stitches, skip one and repeat the pattern. Work a tighter curve by working one, skipping one and repeat.
• Alter the instructions as needed to personalize your project. You can work with double crochet (dc) or treble crochet (tr) stitches using the instructions above. If you are working stacked rounds instead of a spiral, chain one before working the first stitch of each subtracting round.