How to Read a Crochet Pattern

What do the abbreviations mean?

Most US patterns use short codes for stitches. You do not have to memorize them all at once, because every good pattern includes a key.

When you see "dc in next 3 sts," that means work one double crochet into each of the next three stitches.

1. ch: chain
2. sl st: slip stitch
3. sc: single crochet
4. hdc: half double crochet
5. dc: double crochet
6. tr: treble (triple) crochet
7. st / sts: stitch / stitches
8. yo: yarn over
9. inc / dec: increase / decrease

Why do US and UK terms differ?

This trips up a lot of new crocheters. US and UK patterns use the same words for different stitches, so the names are shifted by one step. A US single crochet is called a double crochet in the UK.

Before you start, find out which version your pattern uses. Most patterns state it near the top. If a pattern uses "tension" instead of "gauge" and has no single crochet anywhere, it is likely UK.

1. US single crochet (sc) = UK double crochet (dc)
2. US double crochet (dc) = UK treble crochet (tr)
3. US half double crochet (hdc) = UK half treble (htr)

What do asterisks and brackets mean?

Patterns use symbols to avoid writing the same thing over and over.

Read the repeat once slowly, then again as you stitch. Saying it out loud helps.

1. Asterisks (*) mark a section to repeat. "*2 sc, 1 dc; repeat from * 4 times" means work that group again as directed.
2. Brackets [ ] or parentheses ( ) group stitches that go into one spot or repeat together. "[2 dc, ch 1] in next st" means all of that goes into the same stitch.

What do the numbers in parentheses mean?

At the end of a row or round, you will often see a number in parentheses, like (12) or (24 sts). That is your stitch count. It tells you how many stitches you should have when the row or round is finished.

Stop and count against that number before moving on. If you have 11 and the pattern says 12, you can fix one missed stitch now instead of unraveling ten rows later.

This is where keeping your place matters most. A row counter, whether a clicker or an app like Worsted that counts rows for you, saves you from losing track on long or repetitive sections.

Rounds or rows: what is the difference?

Rows are worked back and forth in flat pieces, like a scarf. You turn your work at the end of each row.

Rounds are worked in a circle, common for hats, granny squares, and amigurumi. You usually do not turn. Patterns label these as "Row 1" or "Round 1" (sometimes "Rnd 1"), so check which one you are on. Rounds often start with a stitch marker to show where the round begins.

Why do gauge and skill level matter?

Gauge tells you how many stitches and rows fit in a 4 inch square with the recommended yarn and hook. If your gauge does not match, your finished hat or sweater comes out the wrong size. Make a small swatch and measure before you commit to a big project.

Skill level (beginner, easy, intermediate, advanced) gives you fair warning about the stitches involved. A beginner pattern sticks to chains and single crochet. Pick one that matches where you are.

How do you read a full line of a pattern?

Here is a single line, decoded:

Row 4: ch 1, turn, *sc in next 2 sts, 2 dc in next st; rep from * across (20)

That is the whole skill. Read the key, follow each row or round in order, watch your repeats, and count as you go. Keep your place, check your stitch counts, and the pattern will guide you the rest of the way.

1. Chain 1 and turn your work to start the new row.
2. Work 1 single crochet into each of the next 2 stitches.
3. Work 2 double crochets into the next single stitch (an increase).
4. Repeat that starred group across the whole row.
5. Count your stitches. You should have 20.