Your first look at a written crochet pattern can feel like reading a secret code. Lines of abbreviations, asterisks, brackets and numbers can be confusing, even when the project itself is simple. The good news is that crochet patterns follow a small set of rules, and once you know them, you can read almost any pattern.
This guide explains each part of a written pattern, from the materials list to the stitch counts. You will learn the most common abbreviations and symbols, how repeats work, why gauge matters, and how to avoid the most common beginner mistakes. At the end, you will work through two short practice patterns line by line.
The Parts of a Pattern
Most patterns are organized in a similar way. Before you start, read the whole pattern from top to bottom.
- Title and description: The name of the project and what it looks like.
- Skill level: How difficult the pattern is.
- Finished size: The approximate measurements of the finished item.
- Materials: The yarn weight, hook size, notions, and the amount of yarn.
- Gauge: The size of your stitches, so that you can match the designer's results.
- Abbreviations and notes: A key to the terms used, and special instructions.
- Instructions: The rows or rounds, listed in order.
- Finishing: Weaving in ends, blocking, and assembly.
Skill Levels
Many patterns use four common labels. Designers decide their own labels, so use them as a guide only.
- Beginner: Basic stitches, simple shaping, and little or no assembly.
- Easy: Basic stitches with simple stitch patterns and some shaping.
- Intermediate: A wider variety of stitches and techniques, such as shaping and color changes.
- Experienced: Complex stitch patterns, advanced shaping and detailed construction.
Common Abbreviations
These abbreviations use US terms and appear in most beginner patterns.
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- tr: treble (triple) crochet
- st(s): stitch(es)
- sp: space
- yo: yarn over
- inc: increase, usually 2 stitches in the same stitch
- dec or sc2tog: decrease, usually working two stitches together
- rep: repeat
- rnd: round
- RS and WS: right side and wrong side
- BLO and FLO: back loop only and front loop only
- MR: magic ring
- beg: beginning
- skip or sk: pass over a stitch without working into it
A pattern should list its abbreviations. If it does not, search for the unfamiliar one in a stitch dictionary or on a reliable crochet website.
Symbols: Asterisks, Parentheses and Brackets
Asterisks (*)
Asterisks mark a section you will repeat. Example: *Sc in the next 2 sts, inc in the next st.* Repeat around. This means that you work the section between the asterisks, then do it again until the end of the round or row.
Sometimes a pattern says "Repeat from * to end." This means to go back to the first asterisk and repeat the instructions to the end of the row.
Parentheses ( )
Parentheses have two common uses.
- A group worked in the same place: (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc) in the next stitch means you work all of those stitches into the same stitch.
- A stitch count at the end of a row: (12 sc) tells you how many stitches you should have after finishing the row.
Some patterns also use parentheses for repeats, such as (sc, inc) 6 times.
Brackets [ ]
Brackets are often used for a group to be repeated, or for extra information. Example: [Sc in next 3 sts, dc in next st] 4 times.
Different designers use symbols slightly differently, so always read the pattern's notes.
Stitch Counts and Turning Chains
Many patterns end each row with a stitch count in parentheses, for example (20 sc). Counting your stitches at the end of every row is one of the best habits you can build, because it helps you catch mistakes early.
A turning chain is a chain you make at the start of a new row to bring the hook to the right height. These are commonly:
- Single crochet: ch 1, which usually does not count as a stitch.
- Half double crochet: ch 2, which often counts as a stitch, but not always.
- Double crochet: ch 3, which usually counts as the first stitch.
Different patterns treat turning chains differently, so check the notes to see whether the turning chain counts as a stitch.
Rows and Rounds
- Rows: You work back and forth, turning the work at the end of each row. Patterns say "Ch 1, turn."
- Joined rounds: You work in a circle and close each round with a slip stitch into the first stitch.
- Spiral rounds: You work in a continuous spiral without joining and use a stitch marker to mark the start of each round.
The pattern should say which method it uses. If it does not, check the notes or the first few instructions.
Gauge
Gauge is the number of stitches and rows in a set area, usually 4 in (10 cm). It tells you how large the stitches should be. It matters most for items that need to fit, such as clothing, and less for items such as coasters or decorations.
- Work a swatch at least 4 in (10 cm) square using the yarn and hook in the pattern.
- Lay it flat without stretching it.
- Count the stitches and rows within 4 in (10 cm).
- If you have more stitches than the pattern, your stitches are smaller; use a larger hook. If you have fewer, use a smaller hook.
US and UK Terms
The US and UK use the same names for different stitches. For example, a US single crochet is called a double crochet in UK terms. Always check which system the pattern uses. The pattern will usually state this in the notes or the abbreviations list. Look at the stitches used: if the pattern includes "sc" and no "htr", it is likely US.
Practice Example 1: A Flat Square
Here is a short pattern, with an explanation of each line.
Pattern:
- Ch 13.
- Row 1: Sc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. Ch 1, turn. (12 sc)
- Rows 2 to 12: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (12 sc)
- Fasten off.
What it means:
- Ch 13: Make 13 chains. You will work into 12 of them, because you skip the one next to the hook.
- Row 1: Skip the first chain, put your hook in the 2nd chain from the hook, and make a single crochet. Repeat in each of the remaining chains. You should end with 12 stitches.
- Ch 1, turn: Make one chain, then flip your work so the other side faces you.
- Rows 2 to 12: Work one single crochet in each of the 12 stitches, then ch 1 and turn. Repeat this for 11 rows.
- (12 sc): After each row, count your stitches to check that you have 12.
- Fasten off: Cut the yarn and pull it through the loop on your hook.
Practice Example 2: A Flat Circle
This example uses an asterisk repeat and increases.
- Round 1: Make a magic ring and work 6 sc into it. (6 sc)
- Round 2: Inc in each st around. (12 sc)
- Round 3: *Sc, inc.* Repeat around. (18 sc)
- Round 4: *2 sc, inc.* Repeat around. (24 sc)
What it means:
- Round 1: Create an adjustable ring, then make 6 single crochets inside it.
- Round 2: Work 2 single crochets in every stitch. 6 stitches become 12.
- Round 3: Work 1 single crochet in the next stitch, then 2 single crochets in the following stitch. Repeat this pair 6 times. Since each pair uses 2 stitches and makes 3, 12 stitches become 18.
- Round 4: Work 2 single crochets, then 2 in the next stitch. Each group uses 3 stitches and makes 4, so 18 stitches become 24.
Notice the pattern: each round adds 6 stitches, and the number of plain stitches before each increase goes up by one. You will find this method in many circular patterns, including our crochet coaster pattern.
Tips for Following Patterns
- Read the whole pattern first. It prevents surprises.
- Use a pencil or highlighter to mark each row you finish.
- Use stitch markers at the beginning of rounds and at key points.
- Count regularly. Check your stitches at the end of every row or round.
- Make a swatch when size matters.
- Check for corrections. If a pattern does not seem to work, see whether the designer has published corrections.
- Take notes. Record any changes you make so that you can repeat them.
- Start with simple patterns. Try our crochet snowflake ornaments or gift tags as a next step.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
The stitch count is wrong. Count again, and look for missed stitches at the beginning or end of the row. If needed, undo the row and redo it.
The edges are uneven. Check whether you counted the turning chain as a stitch when the pattern said not to, or the opposite.
The circle ruffles or cups. You may have too many or too few increases. Count stitches in each round.
The pattern does not match the photo. Check that you are following the correct size and that your yarn weight matches.
The terms look wrong. You may be using a US pattern with UK terms, or the other way around.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "work even" mean?
It means to continue the stitch pattern without increasing or decreasing, so that the number of stitches stays the same.
What does "turn" mean?
Flip the work so that the other side faces you, and begin the next row.
What does "join" mean?
Usually, it means to make a slip stitch into the first stitch of a round to close it, or to attach a new yarn or piece.
What does "fasten off" mean?
Cut the yarn and pull the tail through the last loop on your hook, so that the work cannot unravel.
Do I need to follow the pattern exactly?
For your first projects, yes. As you gain experience, you can change colors, stitches and sizes.
What if a pattern has a chart instead of written instructions?
Charts use symbols for stitches. A key explains each symbol. Work from the center outward for rounds and follow the rows from bottom to top for flat pieces, as the chart indicates.
Final Thoughts
Reading a crochet pattern gets easier with practice. Start with simple patterns, learn the abbreviations as you go, and count your stitches often. Soon the code will become second nature, and you will be able to follow patterns from many designers. If you are choosing materials, see our guide to the best yarn for crochet beginners. Happy crocheting!
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