Happy Cotton Pattern book 18

Essential Techniques You'll Learn:

• Magic ring: This technique allows you to create a tightly closed ring at the beginning of your crochet – especially important in amigurumi to avoid leaving a hole in the center.
• Chain stitch (ch): The most basic crochet stitch, often used as the foundation of the work, but also as borders or decorative elements. Every serious crochet project starts here.
• Slip stitch (sl st): A simple but versatile stitch used to join rounds, connect stitches, or change position while working.
• Single crochet (sc): One of the tightest and most stable stitches. Ideal for shaping the bodies and parts of amigurumi.
• Double crochet (dc): A taller stitch made in two steps, giving the fabric a lighter texture. Perfect for decorative details.
• Treble crochet (tr): An even taller, looser stitch that adds dimension and character to the crocheted surface, mostly used for embellishments.
• Half treble (htr): A medium-height stitch that provides a great balance between density and flexibility.
• Increase (inc): Two stitches made into the same stitch. A fundamental technique for expanding shapes and adding volume.
• Decrease (dec): Two consecutive stitches crocheted together as one. This technique allows for shaping and narrowing of the crocheted form.
• Bobble stitch: Several incomplete double crochets worked into the same stitch and finished together. It creates a raised, soft bump that adds a playful texture to the surface.
• Back loop only (BLO): The crochet hook only goes through the back loop of the stitch, creating a ribbed, more flexible texture – a common technique in amigurumi for highlighting shapes.