When you start your crochet journey, you’ll quickly encounter a language of abbreviations that may seem like a code only seasoned crocheters can decipher.
Fear not! This guide is here to unravel the mystery of crochet abbreviations, providing you with the key to understanding and executing crochet patterns with ease.
Understanding the Basics:
Before diving into the world of crochet abbreviations, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the fundamental stitches.
The most common stitches include the chain (ch), single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), and treble crochet (tr). These stitches serve as the building blocks for a wide array of crochet projects.
To learn more, I’ve compiled a detailed list of how to crochet for beginners with explanations on each stitch here.
Decoding Crochet Abbreviations:
Here are just a few commonly used abbreviations used in most crochet projects.
1. Chain (ch): The foundation of almost every crochet project, the chain stitch is abbreviated as “ch” in patterns. For example, “ch 20” means you should create a chain of 20 stitches.
2. Single Crochet (sc): Represented by the abbreviation “sc,” the single crochet stitch is one of the simplest and most frequently used. If a pattern instructs you to “sc 10,” it means you should work 10 single crochet stitches.
3. Double Crochet (dc): The double crochet stitch is abbreviated as “dc.” If a pattern directs you to “dc 15,” you’ll be creating 15 double crochet stitches.
4. Treble Crochet (tr): This taller stitch is abbreviated as “tr.” If your pattern calls for “tr 8,” you’ll be working eight treble crochet stitches.
5. Slip Stitch (sl st): A slip stitch is often used to join rounds or finish a piece. In patterns, it’s abbreviated as “sl st.” For instance, “sl st to the first ch” means you should slip stitch to the first chain.
6. Skip (sk): When a pattern instructs you to “skip” a certain number of stitches, it means you should disregard them and move to the specified stitch. For example, “sk 2” means you skip the next two stitches.
7. Repeat (rep): If you see “rep” in a pattern, it means you should repeat the sequence of stitches or instructions that precede it. This is common in creating intricate patterns or textures.
Tips for Success:
1. Refer to a Stitch Guide: Keep a crochet stitch guide handy, especially when you encounter unfamiliar abbreviations. Jump down to the crochet abbreviation list
2. Take it Slow: As a beginner, start with simple patterns that use basic stitches and gradually work your way up to more complex projects. This will help you become more comfortable with the language of crochet.
3. Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice, the more familiar you’ll become with crochet abbreviations. Consider creating small swatches to experiment with different stitches and reinforce your understanding.
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Cracking the code of crochet abbreviations is an empowering step in your journey as a crocheter. With this newfound knowledge, you can confidently tackle a wide range of patterns and unleash your creativity with every stitch.
Embrace the learning process, enjoy the therapeutic nature of crocheting, and soon you’ll be creating stunning handmade pieces with ease. Happy crocheting!
Crochet Tips & Tricks Video Tutorial
Crochet Abbreviation List
In alphabetical order:
approx = approximate
beg = beginning
bet = between
BLO= back loop only (loop furthest away from you)
BP = Back Post
Ch = chain
cont = continue
Dc = double crochet [yarn over, insert hook, draw up a loop, (yarn over pull through 2 loops)2x]
Dc2tog = double crochet 2 stitches together [yarn over, insert hook, draw up a loop, yarn over, pull through 2 loops, yarn over insert hook through the next St, draw up a loop(yarn over pull through 2 loops)2x]
Dec = decrease
Dtr = double treble [yarn over 3x, insert hook, draw up a loop, (yarn over pull through 2 loops)4x]
FLO = front loop only (loop closest to you)
FP = Front Post
Hdc = half double crochet (yarn over, insert hook, draw up a loop, yarn over pull through 3 loops)
Hdc2tog = half double crochet 2 stitches together (yarn over, insert hook, draw up a loop, yarn over, insert hook through the next St, draw up a loop, yarn over pull through all loops)
inc = increase
prev = previous
Pt = pull through (pull yarn through the loop)
Rep = repeat
RS = right side (the correct side facing up)
Sc = single crochet (insert hook, draw up a loop, yarn over, pull through all loops)
Sc2tog = single crochet 2 Stitches together (insert hook, draw up a loop, insert hook through the next stitch, draw up a loop, yarn over, pull through all loops)
Sk = skip
Slst = slip stitch (insert hook, draw up a loop and pull through the loop on hook)
SM = stitch marker / place marker
Sp = space
St(s) = Stitch(es)
Tc = treble crochet [yarn over 2x, insert hook, draw up a loop, (yarn over pull through 2 loops)3x]
WS = wrong side (the inner side facing up)
Yo = yarn over (wrapping the yarn around your hook)
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Happy hooking
Shaz 🧶
