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Home › Knitting abbreviations › inc: Increase

inc: Increase

Add one stitch using the method your pattern names (kfb, m1l, m1r or yo). An increase adds stitches, so the stitch count at the end of the row is higher than at the start. Patterns usually state the new total in brackets.

How to work inc

Add one stitch using the method your pattern names (kfb, m1l, m1r or yo). If the pattern only says inc, kfb is the usual default.

Common mistake

Choosing a different increase on each row, which makes the shaping look uneven.

Effect on your stitch count

It adds 1 stitch.

How it looks in a pattern

A typical line (an invented example for illustration):

Row 7 (RS): K1, inc, knit to last 2 sts, inc, k1.

Spacing it evenly

Need to spread inc evenly across a row? Use the increase and decrease calculator.

Related abbreviations

All terms are in the knitting abbreviations list, and in the app's Glossary, which works offline.

Frequently asked questions

What does inc stand for?

inc stands for increase.

Does inc change the number of stitches?

It adds 1 stitch.

Last updated 7 November 2026. Stitchlight is an independent app; this page is written for readers, not for search engines. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.

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