📚 What you’ll learn
Joined at Top (JAT) stitches are made by working two or more stitches together so their tops meet in a single point. These are often called decreases because they can reduce the number of stitches in a row.
Some patterns use the term “ntog” (not actually decreasing) for stitches joined at the top without reducing stitch count. This term is sometimes used incorrectly, so read the instructions carefully.
JAT stitches are useful for shaping items, creating points or curves, closing openings, and adding texture. They are commonly used in hats, amigurumi, and garments.
🎥 Watch
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📋 Instructions
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Single Crochet Decrease
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Half Double Crochet Decrease
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Double Crochet Decrease
🔑 Key tips
- Keep tension even. Pulling the first part of a stitch too tight can cause bunching.
- Work partial stitches onto the hook, then add the next partial stitch and join them at the top.
- Any basic stitch can be used to create a decrease or JAT set. You can also mix stitches of different heights for varied texture.
🏋️ Practice
- Create a base row of single, half-double, or double crochets.
- Try different decreases:
- Single crochet decrease
- Half-double crochet decrease
- Double crochet decrease
- Experiment with placement: Skip stitches or chain spaces to see how it affects the shape.
- Observe stitch height and spacing: Note how sc, hdc, and dc decreases create different slopes and textures.
- Optional: Make a small rectangle or triangle swatch, adding a few rows of each type of decrease.
🎯 Goal
Understand how different stitches and counts change the shape of your work. This helps when shaping hats, amigurumi, or textured patterns.