If you’re just starting your crochet journey, reading a pattern can sometimes feel like cracking a secret code. But don’t worry, once you understand the common abbreviations, patterns become much easier to follow and way more fun to work with!
In this blog post, we’ll break down the most common crochet abbreviations you’ll see in patterns so you can crochet with confidence.
Why Do Crochet Patterns Use Abbreviations?
Crochet patterns use abbreviations to keep instructions short and easy to read. Instead of writing “single crochet” every time, designers use “sc.” This makes patterns more compact especially for larger projects!
Basic Crochet Abbreviations (US Terminologies)
Here are the stitches and terms you're most likely to come across in your first few patterns:
| Abbreviation | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ch | Chain | The foundation of most projects. |
| sl st | Slip Stitch | Used to join rounds or move yarn without adding height. |
| sc | Single Crochet | One of the simplest and tightest stitches. |
| hdc | Half Double Crochet | Taller than a sc, but shorter than a dc. |
| dc | Double Crochet | Creates a looser and taller stitch. |
| tr | Treble Crochet | Even taller than dc, great for open textures. |
| st(s) | Stitch(es) | Refers to the actual loops you crochet into. |
| sk | Skip | Skip a stitch or space. |
| rep | Repeat | Do something again, often part of a pattern sequence. |
| inc | Increase | Add stitches (usually by working more than one stitch into the same space). |
| dec | Decrease | Combine stitches to reduce the stitch count. |
Special Pattern Terms
Some patterns include additional shorthand or notes that help guide your work:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| RS / WS | Right Side / Wrong Side |
| tog | Together (e.g. "sc2tog" means single crochet 2 stitches together) |
| YO | Yarn Over (wrapping yarn around hook) |
| FO | Fasten Off (secure the final stitch and cut the yarn) |
| *** ... * ;** | Repeat the section between asterisks |
| ( ) | Instructions inside brackets are worked into the same stitch or repeated |
| [ ] x # | Repeat the instructions inside the brackets the specified number of times |
Example in Use
Let’s break down this simple pattern instruction:
Ch 7, from the 2nd ch from hook sc in each st, ch 1 and turn. (6 sts)
Translation:
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Make 7 chains.
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Make a single crochet in each stitch starting from the second chain from your hook.
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Make a chain at the end and turn your work.
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You now have 6 stitches total.
Final Tips
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Don’t rush! Take your time decoding each line when you're just starting.
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Keep a printed cheat sheet of abbreviations nearby (or screenshot this post 😉).
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Watch video tutorials when you’re stuck — sometimes seeing it in action helps it click.
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Remember, every pattern might have a key or glossary section that tells you what abbreviations it uses. Always check there first!
Crochet is a beautiful mix of art and logic, and once you master the lingo, you unlock a whole world of creativity. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be reading patterns like a pro!
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