How to Read Crochet Patterns
All crochet patterns use the same basic format. They give you the
information on how to crochet the pattern, which includes the gauge,
types of crochet stitches, and number of rows or rounds.
Pattern Abbreviations
Some patterns use a visual chart that is a drawing of the final pattern
with symbols for the stitches used. The crochet pattern book should
explain the symbols it uses. Otherwise, here are the common pattern
abbreviations:
- [], (), or *
- repeat
- beg
- beginning
- bet
- between
- BL
- back loop
- b or bo
- bobble
- BPdc
- back post double crochet
- CC
- contrasting color
- ch
- chain stitch
- ch-sp
- chain space
- CL
- cluster
- cont
- continue
- dc
- double crochet
- dc2tog
- double crochet two together
- dec
- decrease
- dtr
- double treble
- FL
- front loop
- foll
- following
- FP
- front post
- hdc
- half double crochet
- hk
- hook
- inc
- increase
- lp(s)
- loop(s)
- MC
- main color
- p
- picot
- pc
- popcorn
- rem
- remaining
- rep
- repeat(s)
- rnd(s)
- round(s)
- RS
- right side
- sc
- single crochet
- sc2tog
- single crochet two together
- sk
- skip
- sl st
- slip stitch
- sp(s)
- space(s)
- st(s)
- stitch(es)
- tch or t-ch
- turning chain
- tbl
- through back loop
- tog
- together
- tr
- treble crochet
- trtr
- triple treble crochet
- WS
- wrong side
- yo
- yarn over
Still confused? Take a look at the crochet terms.
Most books contain a glossary at the beginning or end that describes
how to make the different stitches and explains any special
abbreviations used for fancy stitches in the pattern.
Yarn Gauge
It's very important to match the yarn gauge for how many stitches and
rows fit within a certain measurement. You need to match the
requirements for your finished project to turn out the same size as the
pattern describes.
Crochet a sample square swatch using the yarn weight and size hook suggested in the pattern. If your sample is different from the gauge, make adjustments and try again.
Gauge Problems with Crochet Patterns
- Less stitches and rows than the gauge (too big)
- Try using a smaller crochet hook. You may also need to use a lighter weight yarn.
- More stitches and rows than the gauge (too small)
- Try using a larger crochet hook. You might also need to use a thicker yarn.
It's more much important to match the pattern gauge than the size hook
and yarn. I have an entire set of every size crochet hook, so it's easy
for me to make adjustments by changing hook size.
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