You’ve finally found the perfect crochet pattern and can’t wait to grab your yarn and hook to get started. Are you feeling a little nervous about how to read a crochet pattern? Don’t worry, that’s totally normal—we’ve all been there! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of crochet terms, abbreviations, and symbols so you can confidently read any pattern and enjoy every stitch along the way!
What is a Crochet Pattern?
A crochet pattern is a set of instructions that tells you how to make an item like a blanket, hat, or sweater using yarn and a crochet hook.
Here are the three most common types of crochet patterns:
Written Pattern
Written patterns are one of the most common types of pattern, especially in Western countries. They use crochet abbreviations and numbers, with instructions written in rows or rounds. We will explain this in detail below; keep reading to learn more!
Diagram Pattern
Crochet charts or diagrams are perfect for visual learners because they use symbols to show how the stitches are placed. Commonly used in Eastern countries, these charts allow you to see exactly how the design will come together, even before you start crocheting! Click on the link to learn more.
Graph Pattern
Crochet graphs are versatile visual tools that can be used with written and diagram patterns. They are essential for colorwork patterns like tapestry crochet, intarsia, and C2C. Graphs are also used in stitch-focused patterns, such as filet crochet, to create unique textured designs. Each square on the graph represents a stitch, indicating its color, or type of stitch, or a set of stitches. For more details on using crochet graphs, check out the links provided.
Why is it essential to understand crochet patterns?
Here are a few reasons why it’s essential to become familiar with crochet patterns:
- Guides Your Project: Patterns give clear step-by-step instructions, so you don’t have to rely on crochet-along video tutorials.
- Expands Creativity: Understanding patterns allows you to tackle more complex designs and try new techniques.
- Saves Time: Reading patterns helps you avoid mistakes, save time, and reduce frustration.
Is it hard to read crochet patterns?
Think of it as similar to learning a new language or solving a puzzle. Once you understand the system and structure, it becomes as easy as reading this sentence!
As a pattern writer and designer, I began my crochet journey by following charts. Later, I learned to read written patterns. Both methods become easy once you understand their structure. Keep reading to learn how to decode a crochet pattern—I’m confident that soon you’ll not only be crocheting with ease but also designing your own patterns!
Basic crochet stitches and abbreviations
Crochet lingo isn’t as tricky as it looks. Most patterns consist of basic terms and abbreviations like these:
Crochet Stitch Abbreviations
Knowing the crochet stitches is crucial because they determine how your project is constructed. Make sure to verify the stitch terminology specified in the pattern, as there are slight differences in naming. If you are totally new to crochet, click the links on each stitch to find out how to crochet it.
| US Terminology | UK Terminology |
| Chain stitch (ch) | Chain stitch (ch) |
| Slip stitch (sl st) | Slip stitch (ss) |
| Single crochet (sc) | Double crochet (dc) |
| Half double crochet (hdc) | Half treble crochet (htr) |
| Double crochet (dc) | Treble crochet (tr) |
| Treble Crochet (tr) | Double triple crochet or double treble crochet (dtr) |
Check out the following link for slightly complex crochet stitch patterns. You can use these to add extra texture and detail to your projects!
Other Useful Terms
Here’s a list of other helpful terms and their abbreviations to assist you in understanding and make reading crochet patterns easier.
| Increase (Inc) | Adding stitches to the row/round. |
| Decrease (Dec) | Reducing stitches in the row/round. |
| Magic Ring (mr) / Magic Circle (mc) | For starting projects in the round. This creates an adjustable loop to avoid a hole in the center of your work. |
| sts | Stitches. |
| Fasten off (fo) | Cut the yarn, pull the tail through the last loop, and tighten it to secure your final stitch |
| Turn | “Flip” your work at the end of a row to start crocheting the next row on the opposite side. |
| Join | Connect two stitches with a slip stitch to close a round. |
| Repeat (Rep) | Repeat the same set of stitches. |
| Skip (sk) | To leave a stitch unworked and move to the next stitch as indicated in the pattern. |
| Chain Space (Ch sp) | Space created by a chain stitch. It is labeled based on the number of chains, like ch2sp for 2 chains or ch3sp for 3 chains. The same applies to other stitches, like hdcsp for a space made with a half double crochet (hdc). |
| The top loop of the stitch is further away from you. | Looping yarn over the hook. |
| Right side (RS) | The front of your project. |
| Wrong side (WS) | The back of your project, |
| Front loop only (flo) | The top loop of the stitch that is closest to you. |
| Back loop only (blo) | The top loop of the stitch that is furthest away from you. |
Parentheses ( ), Asterisks *, Brackets [ ]
These symbols are used interchangeably to group instructions together, indicating that you should work the stitches inside as a unit and repeat them a certain number of times.
This helps organize the instructions and makes it easier to follow the pattern, ensuring you know exactly which steps to repeat and in what order.
Always read the instructions carefully before you begin, as different designers may use these symbols differently, which could affect how you interpret the pattern.
Tip: Break the pattern down and take it one step at a time rather than trying to process a whole line of instructions simultaneously.
How to Read A Crochet Pattern
Let’s learn how to read a written crochet pattern by translating our zebra lovey pattern as an example.
Pattern Description
Some crochet patterns begin with a description section outlining the project’s details. You’ll find the project name, estimated duration, and difficulty level—ranging from beginner to advanced. It gives you a clear overview of what to expect before starting the project.
Materials & Tools
Next, you’ll find a list of supplies needed for the project, such as yarn with yarn weight and colors, hook size, and a few other essential crochet supplies.
If you don’t have the exact yarn or hook, don’t worry! You can look for suitable substitutes. Just read about yarn weight and crochet hooks before making the switch.
Instructions
Finished Dimension: This section provides the finished size of the project.
Crochet Gauge: You will find a crochet gauge section for projects where size and fit matter, like a garment or accessory. It might be tempting to skip this step, but don’t! Be sure to make a gauge swatch to ensure you get the size you want. Read more about crochet gauges and how to determine them.
Abbreviations & Terms: Most patterns list both stitch names and abbreviations. Make sure to verify which country’s terminology is being used, as stitch terms may differ. If you’re uncertain, you can use the crochet stitch links provided above or search YouTube for tutorials on complex stitches.
The Main Pattern
Let’s take an example to explain the instructions. We will be breaking down the structure of the written crochet pattern with Round 5 of our zebra lovey:
Round 5: ch 2, dc into hdcsp, *dc in each of next 2 sts, sk 2 sts, dc in each of next 2 sts, work (2dc, ch2, 2dc) in next ch2sp. Repeat from * around, ending with 2dc in the hdcsp at the beginning of the round. Join with hdc. fo.
- Round 5.
- This tells you the number of rounds you’re working on.
- Ch 2.
- Make two chain stitches (abbrev ch).
- Dc into hdcsp.
- Make a double crochet (abbrev dc) into the half double crochet chain space (abbrev hdcsp) from the previous round.
- *dc in each of next 2 sts, sk 2 sts, dc in each of next 2 sts, work (2dc, ch2, 2dc) in next ch2sp.
- Make one double crochet into each of the next two stitches (sts),
- Skip two stitches (abbrev sk),
- Make one double crochet into each of the next two stitches again,
- In the next chain two space from the previous round, make two double crochets, two chains, and two more double crochet stitches.
- Repeat from * around.
- Repeat the set of instructions all the way around until you reach the end of the round.
- Ending with 2dc in the hdcsp at the beginning of the round
- Finish the round by making two double crochets in the half double crochet space at the start of the round.
- Join with hdc.
- Instead of joining the round with a typical slip stitch, you’re using a hdc to join the end of the round to the beginning.
Other helpful information:
What is crochet blocking?
Some patterns require you to block your finished pieces. This is to smooth out any uneven stitches and enhance the overall appearance of your work. This step is essential for garment-related projects, where the size and drape matter. Find out how to block your crochet projects.
Common mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them.
Here are common beginner mistakes when reading crochet patterns and tips to avoid them:
- Misunderstanding Abbreviations: Check the abbreviation key provided at the start of the pattern if unsure.
- Skipping the Gauge Swatch: Always make a small sample before starting the project to ensure the correct size.
- Rushing Without Reading Ahead: Read a few lines ahead to understand how the pattern is structured.
- Forgetting to Follow Symbols: Pay attention to symbols like parentheses and asterisks, as they indicate steps to repeat.
Where can I find free crochet patterns?
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