Single Crochet 2 Together (sc2tog) Easy Sc Decrease
The sc2tog crochet stitch is a simple decrease technique that joins two single crochet stitches into one. This reduces the stitch count and helps shape crochet fabric for garments, hats, amigurumi, blankets, and many other crochet projects. This beginner tutorial will show you exactly how to single crochet two together, step by step, to make invisible decreases.
How to Single Crochet 2 Together (Quick Guide)
There are just 3 steps to sc2tog:
- Insert hook, yarn over, pull through ( 2 loops on hook)
- Insert hook in NEXT stitch, yarn over, pull through (3 loops on hook)
- Yarn over, pull through 3 (1 loop on hook)
What Does Sc2tog Mean?
Sc2tog stands for “single crochet two together.” It is a crochet decrease made by combining two single crochet stitches into one stitch.
Crocheters use sc2tog to:
- decrease stitch counts
- shape garments and hats
- taper sleeves
- shape amigurumi
- create smooth curves in crochet projects
No matter whether your crochet pattern tells you to decrease in single crochet or single crochet two together, it means exactly the same thing. It may even tell you to make a two-stitch single crochet cluster as a textural or design element. Each of these instructions is worked in the same way.
How to Single Crochet Two Together (Sc2tog) (Step By Step)
Whenever you need to work a decrease, you will start the first single crochet stitch, leave it incomplete, start the second stitch, and complete both stitches together. This means that your two single crochet stitches will combine at the top, forming only one stitch and reducing your stitch count by one.
SC2TOG Video Tutorial
Abbreviations for Single Crochet 2 Together
The abbreviation for single crochet two together is sc2tog crochet. Some patterns may write this as dec sc or sc dec. Read more about basic crochet stitches.
- sc = single crochet stitch
- dec = decrease
- tog = together
- YO = yarn over
- st(s) = stitch (es)
- FLO = front loop only
- BLO = back loop only
- dc2tog = double crochet 2 together
Here is the summary of the sc2tog instructions:
1. Work up to Decrease Point
Work single crochet up to where the decrease is required. The pattern may require it at the start of a row, end of a row, or in the center of a row.
2. Begin the First Single Crochet
This starts as a normal single crochet. Insert the hook into next stitch.
Yarn over and pull up a loop, just as you would for any single crochet. Do not complete the stitch. You will have 2 loops on your hook. This creates the beginning of the first single crochet.
3. Begin the Second Single Crochet
Move on to making the next single crochet. You still have 2 loops on your hook, but ignore this and go ahead with the next single crochet. Insert hook into next stitch.
Yarn over and pull up a loop. You will have 3 loops on the hook now. This creates the beginning of the second single crochet. You now have half of 2 single crochet stitches on the hook, waiting to be completed.
Complete all Loops
Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops. This will finish both stitches at once and combine the two stitches into one. The 2 stitches will form a tiny cluster by being joined at the top.
Sc2tog Crochet Notes
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Technique Type: Crochet decrease stitch
- Best For: Amigurumi, garments, hats, blankets, shaping
- Worked In: Rows and rounds
- Reversible: Usually yes
- Texture: Small tapered decrease
- Special Technique: Two incomplete single crochet stitches joined together
Sc2tog is one of the most commonly used crochet decrease stitches. It creates smooth shaping by combining two single crochet stitches into one while maintaining neat crochet fabric.
Where to Do a Sc2Tog Decrease
If you want your decreases to have a smooth appearance, it is better to work them one stitch into the row rather than decreasing on the very first two stitches of the row, even if your pattern says to decrease at the beginning of the row. This creates a smoother edge. It looks nicer and creates a tidier seam if you make a garment. Some designers call this a “soft decrease” because it creates a gentle curve to your decreases.
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Invisible Single Crochet 2 Together Decrease
This is often written as “inv dec” in patterns. It is also known as the slip stitch decrease, even though it is just a modified sc2tog crochet stitch.
- Sc to where the decrease needs to be. Insert hook into the front loop only (FLO) of the next stitch. To do this, look at the top of the stitch you are about to work into.
❤️ BEGINNER TIP: Normally, you will insert the hook through both loops at the top of this stitch. In this case, you insert the hook only into the front half of the stitch.
- Do not pull through at all. Continue by inserting the hook into the FLO of the next stitch along.
- Yarn over, pull up a loop. (3 loops)
- Yarn over and pull through all 3 loops. Your invisible decrease is complete.
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Sc2tog Troubleshooting
Here are some common sc2tog problems and how to fix them.
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Holes in decreases | Loose tension | Tighten stitches slightly |
| Bulky decrease | Uneven loops | Pull loops evenly |
| Uneven shaping | Inconsistent stitch placement | Count stitches carefully |
| Visible decrease | Standard decrease method | Try invisible decrease |
| Tight stitches | Tight tension | Relax grip slightly |
Sc2tog Crochet FAQs
Sc2tog stands for “single crochet two together.” It is a crochet decrease that combines two single crochet stitches into one stitch.
Yes. Sc2tog is one of the most common crochet decrease stitches used for shaping crochet projects.
Yes. Once you know basic single crochet, sc2tog is easy to learn and commonly used in beginner crochet patterns.
Bulky decreases are usually caused by loose tension or uneven loops. Pulling the loops evenly can help create smoother decreases.
An invisible decrease is a modified sc2tog worked through the front loops only (FLO). It creates a smoother and less noticeable decrease, especially in amigurumi.
Yes. Sc2tog is commonly used in the round for hats, amigurumi, baskets, and circular crochet projects.
Sc2tog joins two single crochet stitches together, while dc2tog joins two double crochet stitches together. Both are decrease techniques, but dc2tog creates a taller stitch.
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Single Crochet Two Together – In Conclusion
Single crochet two together will help you to shape your garments or crochet projects beautifully or will enable you to work crochet triangle shapes if you decrease in every single row. These triangles can be used to make triangular motifs to stitch together as a blanket, bunting, or even shawls if worked on a large scale!
The sc2tog crochet stitch is one of the most useful beginner decrease techniques because it creates smooth shaping while reducing stitch counts neatly. It is commonly used for garments, hats, amigurumi, blankets, and many other crochet projects. Although decreases can feel awkward at first, sc2tog quickly becomes easier with practice. Once mastered, it is an essential crochet technique for shaping and creating a professional-looking crochet fabric.
Single Crochet 2 Together (sc2tog)
Difficulty
Tools
- Crochet Hook
- Scissors
Materials
- Yarn
Instructions
- Work single crochet up to where the decrease is required.
- Insert hook into next stitch. Yarn over and pull through a loop (2 loops on hook)
- Insert hook into next stitch. Yarn over and pull through a loop (3 loops on hook)
- Yarn over and pull through 3 loops (1 loop on hook)
Author - Luisa Clare
Luisa Clare is the founder of Treasurie, a sewing and crochet education platform offering step-by-step tutorials and printable patterns. With over 15 years of experience in dressmaking, pattern design, crochet, and craft education, she specialises in teaching beginners through clear, easy-to-follow lessons. Her tutorials and patterns are used by home sewists and crocheters worldwide to build practical skills and confidence. Learn more about Luisa and Treasurie.
