Clusters, are stitches where two or more stitches are worked together.
They are mainly used as decorative stitches but working stitches together [tog] is also used to decrease the number of stitches in a row or round.
Clusters
A cluster is a group of stitches joined closely together at the top and bottom, or sometimes at the top only.
Where the stitches are joined top and bottom the pattern will normally have the details in the “Special Stitches” section and may be abbreviated as [cl].
Where the stitches are joined at the top only it will often be referred to as [tog], eg: dc3tog.
When making clusters the last yarn over and pull through 2 loops is omitted, giving a partial stitch.
To make a dc cluster:
When making a dc cluster you will be making half a stitch [partial dc] for each stitch and then yarn over and pull through all loops on hook to complete all of the stitches at the same time.
Yarn over, put hook through indicated stitch, yarn over and pull through two.
Two loops on hook.
Again, yarn over and pull through two.
Three loops on hook.
Again, yarn over and pull through two.
Four loops on hook.
Yarn over and pull through all four loops to complete the stitch.