Dec crochet meaning refers to the abbreviation for decrease, combining two or more stitches into one to reduce your total stitch count, most often seen shaping amigurumi or hat crowns. This abbreviation shows up constantly in any pattern involving rounded shaping. This guide gives the direct definition and a worked example distinct from a full how-to walkthrough.
Direct Answer
Dec stands for decrease, a general term that can refer to any stitch-combining technique depending on context, most commonly sc2tog for single crochet or a similar combining method for taller stitches.
Worked Example
A pattern line reading [4 sc, dec] repeat around (20) means single crochet across four stitches, then work a decrease combining the next two stitches into one, repeating this five-stitch sequence around the round for a total of 20 stitches, tapered down from an original 24.
Frequently asked questions
Is dec the same as sc2tog?
Dec is a general term for any decrease technique, while sc2tog specifies the exact single crochet method. A pattern using “dec” generically usually means sc2tog unless otherwise specified for a taller stitch.
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