Patterns can feel a bit like reading a new language at first – with all the crochet abbreviations, acronyms, and terms to navigate, it’s natural to feel a little overwhelmed.

If you feel stuck wondering:

  • Why are there so many abbreviations in crochet?
  • What do these acronyms mean?
  • What should I do if a pattern doesn’t explain a crochet term?

This guide provides the clarity you need.

I’ll explain the purpose of crochet abbreviations, decode common terms, and help you feel confident when reading any pattern.

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

This article may contain some affiliate links.

Crochet Abbreviations: Overview and Cheat Sheets - American Crochet Association

Why Use Crochet Abbreviations

Patterns use crochet abbreviations to keep instructions short, and easy to follow at a glance.

Writing out every stitch or technique in full would make crochet patterns way too long and difficult to read.

Here’s an example:

The double crochet stitch has a single definition that we all agree on and understand in the crochet world.

The technical instructions for a double crochet stitch are:

“Yarn over, insert hook into next stitch, yarn over, pull through stitch, yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through the last two loops,”

Instead of writing this out every time a double crochet stitch should be worked in a crochet pattern, we simply use and reference its crochet abbreviation instead: Dc (double crochet).

The same is true for:

  • Ch (chain)
  • Sc (single crochet)
  • Hdc (half double crochet), and
  • Tc (treble crochet).

Using abbreviations like this makes crochet patterns more compact, easier to reference, and less intimidating.

Tip: If you’re ever unsure about an abbreviation, look for the Stitch Key or Guide at the start of the pattern. This section should always list and explain any special terms and crochet abbreviations used.

What Not To Abbreviate

Common crochet abbreviations, terms, standards, and guidelines are defined by the Craft Yarn Council.

These create consistency, and help crocheters around the world universally understand patterns more easily.

However, not all pattern writers follow these standards.

For example, some pattern writers abbreviate word that:

  • Do not need to be technically defined,
  • Are not used enough to be abbreviated.

Abbreviating words like:

  • beginning = beg,
  • wrong side = ws,
  • fasten off = fo,
  • skip = sk,
  • and repeat = rep,

Are unnecessary!

These abbreviations can actually make patterns harder to read at a glance and follow.

Tip: If you write patterns, stick to abbreviations for stitches and techniques (rather than everyday words) to make sure your patterns can be universally followed, and inviting.

If you’re reading patterns, don’t pick up your crochet hook until you have a solid understanding of all abbreviations, terms, and acronyms used in a pattern!

Crochet Basics

Basic Crochet Stitches

The goal in using crochet abbreviations and acronyms is to make reading and following a pattern easier at a glance.

Crochet patterns are built on a few foundational stitches, such as:

  • Ch (chain)
  • Sc (single crochet)
  • Hdc (half double crochet)
  • Dc (double crochet)
  • Tr (treble crochet)

These basic crochet stitches are the building blocks of crochet, and all other stitches are variations and combinations of these.

You can watch a video tutorial for each one in this Step-By-Step Guide for Beginners.

Tip: Don’t worry if you don’t memorize every crochet abbreviation — you will remember the most basic ones with a bit of practice, and good crochet patterns should always define the more complex ones!

Specialty Crochet Stitches

Beyond the basic crochet stitches, patterns may include some specialty stitches that will also be abbreviated.

A specialty crochet stitch is a complex variation that goes beyond basic crochet stitches.

These are typically combinations and variations of basic stitches to create unique textures, patterns, or effects.

Some common examples are:

  • Shell
  • Bobble
  • Cluster

There are many variations to complete each of these examples, so if they are referenced in a pattern there should also be a technical definition to complete them.

To learn more about Bobble, Cluster, Popcorn & Puff stitches, check out How To Create Textured Crochet Stitches: Bobble, Cluster, Popcorn & Puff.

Beyond those common crochet stitches, there are many, many thousands more!

Far too many to list or define in a single place.

However, you can find some basic tips to help you learn How to crochet any stitch: Plus over 30 classic and unique stitches to try.

Tip: A well-written pattern should explain how to make any specialty stitch it uses.

If instructions are not provided, reach out to the pattern writer for clarification or choose a different pattern.

Special Crochet Techniques

A crochet technique refers to a specific method or approach used to execute a stitch, modify a project, or create a particular effect in crochet.

Techniques often focus on how and where to place stitches, or how to start or finish sections of a project.

Here are some examples of crochet techniques:

  • Back Loop Only (BLO): Working stitches into the back loop of a stitch to create a ribbed texture.
  • Adjustable (Magic) Loop: A method for starting projects worked in the round, allowing you to close the center tightly.
  • Invisible Join: A seamless way to finish off a project, creating a polished look.
  • Join-As-You-Go (JAYGO): A technique to connect motifs (like granny squares) while crocheting, instead of sewing them together later.

Tip: If a pattern uses an unfamiliar term, refer to the pattern key, or look up a tutorial to clarify before you pick up your hook to get started.

Crochet Abbreviations – Cheat Sheets

Here are the most common crochet abbreviations for basic stitches, terms, specialty stitches, and techniques.

Save these for later in case you need a handy reference.

Crochet Abbreviations and Acronyms - American Crochet Association
Crochet Abbreviations and Acronyms - American Crochet Association

US and UK Crochet Terms

Crochet terminology can vary depending on where a pattern is written.

US and UK terms, in particular, differ significantly, especially when it comes to stitch names.

The Craft Yarn Council has outlined differences for US, UK and Canada on their website.

For example, a US Double Crochet stitch does not have the same definition (technical instructions) of a UK Double Crochet stitch.

  • US Double Crochet (Dc) = Yarn over, insert hook into stitch, yarn over, pull through stitch, yarn over, pull through two loops, yarn over, pull through two loops.
  • UK Double Crochet (Dc) = Insert hook into stitch, yarn over, pull through stitch, yarn over, pull through two loops.

And so, if working in UK terms, we can see that a Double Crochet (Dc) is actually worked like a US Single Crochet (Sc).

US and UK Comparison – Cheat Sheet

Here is a comparison chart of US and UK common crochet terms, stitches, and techniques, including the definition for each.

US and UK crochet comparison chart - American Crochet Association

Tip: Always check whether a pattern uses US or UK terms before you get started.

On Ravelry, for example, the country of origin (pattern language) is part of the pattern listing.

Free Crochet Patterns To Try

Now that you have a better understanding when reading and following crochet abbreviations, terms, and acronyms… why not practice!

A great way to get started is with some free crochet patterns to try with clear instructions, a detailed Stitch Key, and specialty stitches to try.

Note that definitions and video tutorials (when you click on the links) are given, which should make your job as a pattern reader much easier. 

Coastal Crochet Crossbody

Sundial Motif and Throw

Pumpkin Hat Crochet Pattern

Video Chat

Crochet abbreviations are designed to make patterns more efficient and easier to follow.

While they may seem confusing at first, learning how to read and follow them is a valuable step toward improving your crochet skills.

If you still have questions or need extra guidance, you can start a conversation in our free online community!

Peace, Love & Crochet

Salena

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