How to Crochet a Steep Bend in Amigurumi (Symmetrical Split Method)
Learn how to crochet a steep, symmetrical bend in amigurumi by splitting the structure evenly into two directions using skip stitches and surface crochet.
Table of Contents Show
Where This Fits in Amigurumi Bends
There are a few different types of bends you can create in amigurumi:
Gentle curves (smooth, gradual shaping)
Right angle bends (90° turns)
Sharp bends (steeper, more dramatic angles)
In this tutorial, we’re focusing on sharp and steeper bends, where shaping becomes more structural.
👉 This method creates a steep bend that splits evenly into two directions, forming a balanced, symmetrical structure.
How Skip Stitches and Surface Crochet Create a Steep Split Bend
Start with a Base Cylinder
Begin with a simple crochet cylinder:
Round 1: Magic ring sc 10 – 10 sts
Round 2: Sc 10 – 10 sts
Rounds 3–5: Repeat Round 2 – 10 sts
👉 This forms your neutral base before shaping begins.
The Key Idea: Create a Gap and Split the Structure
Skip stitches to create separation
Work into the remaining stitches
This forms the first side of the split
👉 You are no longer bending a single direction — you are dividing the structure into two paths.
Rebuild the Opposite Side with Surface Crochet
Attach new yarn
Work into the opposite stitches
Mirror the first side
👉 This creates a balanced, symmetrical split.
What the Finished Bend Should Look Like
A steep angle
Two equal extensions
A balanced, structured form
👉 This creates one of the steepest bends, forming two symmetrical directions from a single base.
Basic Pattern for a Steep Symmetrical Bend
Here’s a simplified example:
Pattern Snippet
Round 6: 2sc in each st around – 20 sts
Round 7: Skip 10 sts, (sc2tog, sc1), sc8 – 10 sts
Round 8: Sc10 – 10 sts
One side is now formed.
Using new yarn to create the second side at the same level:
Round 7: Insert into 2 opposite sts, (sl st 2 together, sc1), sc8 – 10 sts
Round 8: Sc10 – 10 sts
Watch How the Bend Forms Step-by-Step
If you prefer to see how the stitches come together, you can follow along in this video below. Notice how the structure splits evenly into two sides, forming a steep and balanced bend.
How to Control the Shape and Balance
Why This Method Creates a Steep Bend
A large section of stitches is skipped
This creates a strong structural separation
The shape changes direction sharply
👉 The result is a steep, clearly defined split.
How to Adjust the Symmetry
You can control the shape by adjusting:
Starting round size (larger base = larger split)
Number of skipped stitches → wider separation
Placement of the split → controls direction
Even distribution → keeps the structure symmetrical
👉 Symmetry comes from balancing both sides evenly.
How to Use This Technique in Amigurumi Designs
This technique is ideal when you want to create strong structural splits.
You can use it for:
Legs extending from a body
Arms branching from a torso
Structural or branching shapes
Stylised poses
It’s perfect when the shape needs to feel bold and defined.
👉 For example, in my astronaut boy design, I split the legs evenly from the main body using this method. This creates a steep bend between the legs, forming a clear angle that gives the pose a strong, structured look.
Other Ways to Create Steep Bends in Amigurumi
There are a few different ways to create steep bends and structural shaping:
Symmetrical split → balanced, even extensions
Uneven split → directional, off-centre shaping
This method focuses on symmetry, creating a clean and balanced structure.
👉 If you’d like a bigger picture of how all the bend techniques fit together, you can find them in the Ultimate Guide on How to Crochet Bends in Amigurumi (9 Ways to Shape and Control Curves).
Try Your First Amigurumi Bends
Put what you’ve learned into practice with easy arm, leg, and bend patterns. Grab it free over here.
Want to Explore More Types of Bends?
This symmetrical split method is just one way to create steep bends.
There are also:
gradual bends
perpendicular bends
directional and uneven bends
👉 Each technique creates a different effect depending on how you shape and structure your stitches.

