Crochet patterns use a standardized shorthand to keep instructions concise and easy to follow once you know the code. Learning this language opens up a vast library of designs that might otherwise feel inaccessible.
Basic Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)
The foundation of pattern reading rests on the basic stitch abbreviations. These represent the physical actions you perform with your hook and yarn. In US terminology, the list starts with the simplest motions and builds toward taller stitches.
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet (sometimes written as trc)
- dtr – double treble crochet
You will also encounter abbreviations for hook placement and loop management. yo stands for yarn over, the fundamental motion of wrapping yarn around the hook. st means stitch, and sts is the plural. sp refers to a space, usually the gap between stitches or the hole created by a chain in the previous row. lp indicates a loop on the hook. Patterns often reference the fl (front loop) or bl (back loop) to create texture or ribbing.
If you are just starting out, it helps to keep a printed cheat sheet near your project bag. Our crochet basics category has printable resources designed for beginners.
Structural and Technique Abbreviations
Beyond the stitches themselves, patterns use shorthand for construction techniques. These tell you how to shape the fabric, join pieces, or navigate the geometry of the project.
- inc – increase (working two or more stitches into the same stitch)
- dec – decrease (combining two or more stitches into one)
- sc2tog – single crochet two together (a standard decrease)
- dc2tog – double crochet two together
- rep – repeat
- sk – skip
- tch or t-ch – turning chain
- RS / WS – right side / wrong side
- pm – place marker
- sm – slip marker
- rm – remove marker
- f/o – fasten off
- cont – continue
- foll – following
- prev – previous
Decreases sometimes appear as dec without specifying the stitch type. In those cases, the default is usually a single crochet decrease, but the pattern notes section should clarify. Markers (pm, sm, rm) are essential for tracking stitch counts in the round or marking the beginning of a row.
The US vs. UK Terminology Trap
This is the single most common source of frustration for crocheters. The stitch names are identical, but they describe different heights. A US single crochet (sc) is a UK double crochet (dc). A US double crochet (dc) is a UK treble crochet (tr). The UK system essentially shifts everything up one step.
- US sc = UK dc
- US hdc = UK htr (half treble)
- US dc = UK tr
- US tr = UK dtr (double treble)
Chain (ch) and slip stitch (sl st) are the only two terms that remain consistent across both systems. Before you start a project, locate the terminology note. It is usually found in the pattern header, the materials list, or the abbreviation key. If the pattern uses “single crochet,” it is written in US terms. If it uses “double crochet” but lacks “single crochet” entirely, it is likely UK. Designers on platforms like Ravelry typically tag the terminology. The Craft Yarn Council maintains the official standards for both systems.
Always verify the terminology before you make your gauge swatch. Working a US dc when the pattern intends a UK dc (US sc) will result in fabric that is too tall, too loose, and the wrong dimensions.
Pattern Symbols and Formatting
Symbols act as traffic signals inside the written instructions. They group stitches, indicate repeats, and handle sizing variations.
Asterisks (* *)
Asterisks mark a repeat sequence. The instruction *dc in next 5 sts, 2 dc in next st* means you work the steps between the stars, then go back to the first star and do it again. The pattern will usually tell you how many times to repeat (e.g., “rep * to * 3 times”) or instruct you to “rep * to * across” until you reach the end of the row.
Brackets [ ] and Parentheses ( )
Both symbols group stitches to be worked in a single location or as a single unit. [sc, ch 2, sc] in next ch-2 sp means you work everything inside the brackets into that one space. Parentheses often serve the same function but are frequently used for stitch combinations like shells or clusters: (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in next st. Nested grouping uses brackets outside parentheses: *[ (dc, ch 1) twice, dc ] in next st*.
Stitch Count in Parentheses
At the end of a row or round, you will often see a number in parentheses: (35 dc). This is the stitch count. It is a checkpoint. Stop and count your stitches. If your number does not match, you have added or missed a stitch somewhere in that row. Catching the error immediately saves you from frogging (ripping out) the entire project later.
Multiple Sizes
Garment patterns list instructions for multiple sizes in a single line using parentheses. The format is typically Size XS (S, M, L, XL). The instruction reads: Ch 40 (44, 48, 52, 56). You follow the number corresponding to your chosen size. Highlight or circle your size numbers throughout the pattern before you begin so your eye jumps to the correct figure automatically.
Stitch Combination Abbreviations
Advanced patterns condense complex textures into single abbreviations. These are usually defined in the pattern’s “Special Stitches” section. Do not guess what they mean; read the definition provided by the designer.
- shell – multiple stitches (often 5 dc) worked into the same stitch or space to create a fan shape.
- cluster – several stitches worked partially and completed together at the top (e.g., dc3tog cluster).
- popcorn – a group of completed stitches (usually 5 dc) joined at the top by pulling the loop of the last stitch through the top of the first stitch.
- bobble – similar to a cluster but worked with taller stitches (often tr or dtr) and closed tightly to create a raised ball.
- puff – multiple yarn overs pulled up in the same stitch and closed together, creating a thick, puffy texture.
- fpdc / bpdc – front post double crochet / back post double crochet. These are worked around the vertical post of the stitch below rather than into the top loops, creating cables and ribbing.
- crab st – reverse single crochet, worked from left to right for a twisted rope edge.
- picot – a small decorative loop made by chaining 3 (or more) and slip stitching back into the base stitch or first chain.
Post stitches (fpdc, bpdc, fptr, bptr) are the building blocks of crochet cables. If you want to explore texture further, our guide on crochet stitch combinations breaks down the anatomy of each one.
How to Read a Full Pattern
Reading a pattern is a linear process, but preparation makes it smooth. Start by reading the entire pattern from top to bottom before you touch your yarn. Check the materials list for yarn weight, hook size, and notions. Read the gauge section carefully. Gauge is not optional for fitted items; it determines the final size.
Next, read the “Notes” section. This tells you if the piece is worked flat or in the round, if turning chains count as stitches, and any special construction details (e.g., “worked in joined rounds” vs “worked in continuous spiral”).
Look at the abbreviation key. Confirm US vs UK terms. Read the “Special Stitches” definitions. If a special stitch is used, practice it on a scrap of yarn before starting the project.
Now, translate the first row or round into plain English. Write it out on a sticky note if it helps. For example, translate Row 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in next 4 sts, 2 dc in next st, *dc in next 5 sts, 2 dc in next st* across, turn. (35 dc) into:
- Chain 3. This counts as your first double crochet.
- Double crochet in each of the next 4 stitches.
- Put 2 double crochets in the next stitch (increase).
- Repeat the sequence in asterisks across the row.
- Turn work. You should have 35 double crochets total.
Work row by row. Check your stitch count at the end of every row where a count is provided. Use stitch markers to mark the first and last stitch of the row if you struggle to see them. This is especially helpful with taller stitches like treble crochet where the turning chain gap can be confusing.
If you hit a confusing instruction, stop. Re-read the notes and special stitches. Search the specific abbreviation online if it is not in the key. Most pattern questions have been