How to Do an Invisible Decrease
If you want your amigurumi to look smooth, clean, and professional, mastering the invisible decrease is a must. It’s a simple technique that makes a big difference—especially when shaping heads, bodies, and limbs.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to do it, even if you’re just getting started.
What Is an Invisible Decrease?
An invisible decrease (often written as inv dec or sc2tog invisibly) is a method of decreasing stitches in crochet without leaving a noticeable gap or bump.
Instead of working through both loops like a standard decrease, you only work through the front loops, which keeps your stitches neat and tight.
Why it matters:
- Creates a smoother finish
- Prevents holes in your fabric
- Makes your amigurumi look more polished
When Do You Use It?
You’ll typically use invisible decreases when:
- Shaping a ball (like a head or body)
- Closing up parts of your plush
- Tapering limbs or ears
Basically, anytime your pattern says “decrease”, this is the technique you should use for amigurumi.
Step-by-Step: How to Do an Invisible Decrease
Step 1: Insert Hook into First Front Loop
Look at the next stitch. Instead of inserting your hook under both loops, go under the front loop only.
Step 2: Insert Hook into Second Front Loop
Without yarning over, insert your hook into the front loop of the next stitch as well.
You should now have two loops on your hook (from two different stitches).
Step 3: Yarn Over and Pull Through
Yarn over and pull through both front loops.
Step 4: Complete the Stitch
Yarn over again and pull through the remaining loops—just like finishing a normal single crochet.
You’ve now decreased two stitches into one, invisibly.
Invisible Decrease vs Regular Decrease
| Method | Result |
|---|---|
| Invisible Decrease | Smooth, nearly invisible |
| Regular Decrease | Visible bump or small gap |
For amigurumi, the invisible decrease is almost always the better choice.
Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
1. Going through both loops
This turns it into a regular decrease. Make sure you’re only picking up the front loops.
2. Loose stitches
Keep your tension consistent. Amigurumi should be tight enough to hold stuffing.
3. Losing track of stitches
Use a stitch marker to keep your rounds accurate.
Pro Tip for Cleaner Amigurumi
If you want that premium, handmade look (the kind customers notice right away), combine:
- Magic ring start
- Invisible decreases
- Tight, even tension
These three things alone can dramatically improve the quality of your finished pieces.
Final Thoughts
The invisible decrease might feel a bit awkward at first, but once your hands get used to it, it becomes second nature. It’s one of those small techniques that quietly elevates your entire project.
If you’re creating patterns or products (like your crochet cats or bunnies), this is a skill worth mastering—it’s the difference between “homemade” and “handcrafted.”