How to read a crochet pattern.
A crochet pattern is a set of short instructions. Once you understand the abbreviations and repeats, a line that looks complicated becomes a manageable sequence of stitches.
1. Check the terminology first
US and UK patterns use some of the same names for different stitches. In US terms, single crochet is called double crochet in UK terms. This guide uses US terminology. Check the pattern’s terminology before you begin; do not mix the two systems.
| US abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | Chain |
| sc | Single crochet |
| hdc | Half double crochet |
| dc | Double crochet |
| sl st | Slip stitch |
| st / sts | Stitch / stitches |
| sp | Space |
| inc | Increase; follow the pattern’s definition |
| dec | Decrease; follow the pattern’s definition |
2. Read the materials and gauge
Note the yarn weight, hook size, and any extra tools. Yarn weight describes thickness, not the weight of the ball. If the finished size matters, make the gauge swatch requested in the pattern and measure it the same way the designer specifies.
3. Break one row into small actions
For example: Ch 11. Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook and in each ch across. (10 sc)
- Make 11 chain stitches. The loop on your hook is not a chain.
- Skip the chain nearest your hook.
- Work one single crochet into the next chain and each remaining chain.
- Count 10 completed single crochet stitches.
4. Understand repeats
[Sc in next st, 2 sc in next st] 3 times means repeat the bracketed sequence three times. Each repeat uses two existing stitches and creates three new stitches, so the repeated section produces nine stitches in total. Asterisks may also mark a repeat; read the pattern’s key.
5. Check turning chains and stitch counts
A turning chain brings the yarn up to the height of the next row. Whether it counts as a stitch depends on the pattern. Look for an instruction such as “ch 1 does not count as a stitch.” Use a stitch marker in the first and last stitch if you tend to lose the edges.
6. Keep your place
Read the whole row before starting, mark the completed row, and count at the end. If the count is wrong, check the last row before continuing. It is easier to fix one row than several.
Ready to practice? Explore the free tutorials, or browse the Crochetmood PDF shop for your next project.