October 10, 2026 / Marie

    Definition

    An increase is a knitting technique used to create one or more extra stitches to widen your project. Unlike decreases, which reduce the stitch count, increases allow you to gradually expand the width of your knitting by adding stitches at strategic points. These new stitches are incorporated into the following row, contributing to the overall shape and structure of the garment.

    When to Use Increases

    Increases are used throughout knitting: to shape armholes, create flares, balance the sides of a garment, or form complex shapes (such as rounded shoulders, flared sleeves, or skirts). It is an essential part of garment shaping.

    In practice, you’ll encounter increases whenever you knit a piece of clothing. For example, when a pattern says “inc 1 st each side every 6th row,” you must increase regularly to achieve the intended shape. Without well-placed increases, it’s impossible to transform a flat rectangle into a fitted or flared garment.

    There are several increase methods, each with its own visual and technical characteristics (yarn overs, adding an extra stitch, invisible increases, etc.). The choice depends on the desired aesthetic effect and how clearly the pattern should be read.

    Key Takeaways

    • Increases widen your project by increasing the number of active stitches on the needle.
    • Strategic placement: increases are generally located at the sides, armholes, or according to a regular pattern specified in the instructions.
    • Different techniques: yarn overs, M1 (make one), and invisible increases—each creating a different visual effect.
    • Shaping control: gradual increases create smooth, regular curves.
    • Reading the pattern: patterns use abbreviations for increases (such as “inc,” “M1,” or “yo,” depending on the terminology used).

    Decrease — The opposite technique, which reduces the number of stitches (e.g., k2tog, ssk). Used to narrow a project or create a tapered fit.

    Garment Shaping — The set of techniques (increases, decreases, yarn overs) used to modify the shape of a piece of knitting to create structured, fitted clothing.

    Yarn Over (YO) — An increase created by wrapping the yarn around the needle, resulting in a characteristic openwork hole. Common in lace knitting and eyelet patterns.

    Make One (M1) — A discreet increase where a new stitch is created by picking up the strand between two existing stitches. Often noted as M1, it produces a nearly invisible result.

    FAQ

    What is the difference between a yarn over and a “make one” (M1) increase? A yarn over creates a visible increase with a small decorative hole (eyelet), while a “make one” is discreet and leaves no hole. The choice depends on the desired look: yarn overs for lacey effects and M1 for invisible increases.

    How do I place increases for a symmetrical result? Patterns generally specify the exact placement (“every 6th row,” “on each side”). For a harmonious result, increases must be made regularly and evenly on both sides of the piece. An increase every 6th row on the left side must be mirrored identically on the right.

    Where are increases typically found in a standard garment? Mainly at the armholes (to shape the underarm), on the sides (to create a flared skirt or fit the hips), and sometimes at the shoulders. Sleeves also increase at the base to match the width of the armhole.