Crochet Abbreviations Master List
Abbreviation | Description |
CC | contrasting color |
ch | chain stitch |
ch- | refer to chain or space previously made, ... |
ch-sp | chain space |
What does “ch across” mean in crochet?
· Common US Crochet Terms: ch = chain. sp = space. ch-sp = chain space (can also be written as ch-1 sp, ch-2 sp, etc.) sl st = slip stitch. sc = single crochet.
What does ch SP mean on a crochet hook?
· One notation that you see quite frequently in crocheting instructions is the hyphen. Instructions commonly use the hyphen when referring to a chain loop — the hyphen denotes the number of chains you work to create a particular loop. For example, a ch-5 loop is a loop made up of 5 chain stitches.
What does ch15 mean in crochet?
· Common US Crochet Terms, and Abbreviations: Once you finish reading through these terms I have included some links to a couple of easy hat patterns to help you practice the skills we just covered. ch = chain sp = space ch-sp = chain space (can also be written as ch-1 sp, ch-2 sp, etc.) sl st = slip stitch sk st = skip stitch sc = single crochet
How to crochet a ch 17?
When it says (dc, ch 1, dc) in next ch 2 sp and in each ch 2 sp across it means that you do what is in those parentheses in every chain 2 space on the previous row. So in each chain 2 space you should end up with a double crochet, chain 2, double crochet. PATTERN SAYS: Do not join rounds until you complete the 10th round.
What is CH in crochet stitch?
ch(s) = chain(s). This is one of the most common abbreviations that you will see since nearly all crochet patterns begin with chains. Many also include chains throughout the design.
What does make 2 CH mean in crochet?
Now you have 15 chains and the pattern says to “sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each. ch across”. That means that you look at your chain, count the first chain away from the hook, which you will skip, then work a single crochet in the 2nd chain away from the hook.
What is a ch 1 space in crochet?
The post of each single crochet consists of 2 'legs' or posts on the front of your work, and 2 'legs' or posts on the back. When you pull on your work like this, you will see that one of the back vertical posts stretches diagonally. The space to the right of this back vertical post is your ch-1 space.
How do you start a crochet ch?
Crochet usually begins with a series of chain stitches called a beginning or foundation chain. A slip knot is the first step in most crochet projects. We will begin by making a slip knot on the crochet hook about 6 inches from the free end of the yarn. You will first start by creating a loop with the yarn.
What does CH 3 SP mean in crochet?
Ch-sp means that, when crocheting a chain, you will skip a stitch and work into the next. Then, in the next row, you will work into that space in the chain above. According to the Craft Yarn Council, "3 or more, are often called loops (lps)."
How do you do a treble crochet stitch?
A treble crochet (sometimes called triple crochet) is taller than a double crochet and is made by working two yarn overs at the start of the stitch, instead of one yarn over as for double crochet. It is abbreviated tr.
What is ch2 space?
Ch-2 sp means chain-2 space OR the space/hole created by a chain-2 from the previous row. All you need to do when you get to that part is to insert your crochet hook into the hole (vs. the top of a stitch) and work your dc.
What does CH 5 SP mean in crochet?
In a pattern you may see a chain 5 space abbreviated as “ch-5 sp”. Here is a photos of what a chain space can look like: Normally when you crochet into a stitch you insert your hook into the font and back loops of the stitch.
How do you find chain one space?
1:102:30How to: Work into chain space (crochet) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe work my double crochet into the stitch there. And then we come to the part of the pattern where IMoreWe work my double crochet into the stitch there. And then we come to the part of the pattern where I'd be working those three double crochets into that chain space.
What does Ch mean in knitting?
Chain using crochet hookSlip 2 stitches together, knit one stitch, pass the slipped stitches over (together). cddp: Centre double decrease purl. cdi: center double increase. ch: Chain using crochet hook. cn: Cable needle.
What are the abbreviations for crocheting?
Crochet abbreviations are a way to shorten a certain crochet stitch name inside patterns....Abbreviations for Basic Crochet Stitches.AbbreviationTermscsingle crochetdcdouble crochethdchalf double crochettr or trctreble crochet or triple crochet6 more rows•Mar 20, 2022
How do you do single stitch?
6:5516:20Beginner Crochet Lesson 1 - Right Handed (CC) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPull through that chain so now you have two loops on your hook. And now we're going to yarn overMorePull through that chain so now you have two loops on your hook. And now we're going to yarn over again. And pull through both of the loops. All the way. Through you have just made a single crochet.
What does dc in next 2 dc mean?
double crochet“dc” stands for double crochet in a pattern. So to work round 4 you would need to work 2 double crochet stitches in the first dc stitch, then 1 double crochet in each of the next two dc stitches (presumably these dc stitches you are working into would be from round 3). You'll repeat that sequence from the * around.
How do you chain 2 in crochet?
0:211:40Chain Two 2 Method - Crochet Stitch - Alternative to the Magic Loop / RingYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJust draw up a loop. And then single crochet. And just put as many single crochets as you need forMoreJust draw up a loop. And then single crochet. And just put as many single crochets as you need for the pattern.
How do you read Brackets and parentheses in crochet?
Understanding Symbols In Crochet Patterns Brackets [ ] are used to set off a group of instructions worked a number of times. For example, "[ch 3, sc in ch-3 sp] 7 times" means to work the instructions inside the [ ] seven times. Brackets [ ] also set off a group of stitches to be worked in one stitch, space or loop.
How do you crochet a chain space?
Normally when you crochet into a stitch you insert your hook into the font and back loops of the stitch. But when you are instructed to crochet into a chain space, just insert your hook into the space/hole/gap (underneath the chain) to make your stitch.
What is the back loop in crochet?
Sometimes a pattern will tell you to work in the front loop only, or into the back loop only. The front loop is the loop closest to you, the back loop is the loop farthest away from you ( See Figure 8 ).
What does parentheses mean in knitting?
Parentheses are sometimes used in the same way. Parentheses are used to indicate a group of stitches that are to be worked together into a stitch , such as: in next dc work (2 dc, ch 3, 2 dc). That means you will work all of those stitches in one dc, which makes a shell. Return to top.
What are some crochet projects that involve working in rounds?
Many crochet projects include working in rounds – such as a granny square.
What do brackets tell you?
Brackets [ ] also are used to tell you how many times to work a certain step. The number immediately following the brackets tells you how many times to do the step.
How many chains do you need to crochet a double crochet?
But for double crochet, a taller stitch, you need to make 3 chains and then turn.And this time the 3 chains count as a stitch. So on the next row, you assume that the chain 3 counts as the first dc, and you will work into the next stitch, not the first stitch ( See Figure 5 ).
How many stitches are there in a double crochet?
Then work a double crochet in each of the remaining 13 chains. You now have 15 double crochet stitches.
Why are crochet patterns so scary?
That’s because crochet patterns are written using many abbreviations and terms, which save space and make patterns easier to read.
What does SC stand for in crochet?
This makes it easier to understand since “ sc ” stands for “ s ingle c rochet”, and “ hdc ” stands for h alf d ouble c rochet. You may also see the first two letters used instead as in ch (for ch ain), tr (for tr eble crochet), or sk st ( sk ip st itch). Patterns can be worked in rows (back and forth) or rounds. Rounds can either be joined, usually with a slip stitch, or continuous (don’t forget to use stitch markers to hold your spot!).
What is gauge crochet?
Gauge is the tension a crocheter needs to use to achieve the garment size. Making a gauge swatch is the most important, and unfortunately, the most neglected step of any crochet pattern. If you don’t want to end up frogging your entire project, and wasting valuable time (and brain cells), make a gauge swatch.
How many chains are in a row?
So, your starting row needs to have 108 chains (conveniently, 108 is a multiple of 6), plus 2 more chains, for a total of 110. It is important to note that some people include the turning chain in this multiple count, and others do not. Most of the time it should be included.
Where are the numbers on a pattern?
And, you’ll often notice numbers at the end of most well-written patterns. They may or may not be in parentheses. These are your stitch counts for the current row or round. For example, here is row 4 from my Primrose and Proper super scarf:
How many stitches does a crochet hat have?
For instance a hat that starts out with 12 double crochet stitches will usually increase by 12 stitches in each increase round.
What is the beginning of a pattern?
At the beginning of a pattern you will see several headings containing yarn, stitch, measurement, and gauge information. It is tempting to skip over these to get to the pattern, but restrain yourself, look them over, and you will likely end up saving yourself hours of frustration, and/or a ruined garment!
Is there a right or wrong way to write a crochet pattern?
-There is no right or wrong way to write a pattern#N#This is a source of frustration for many crocheters, but the fact is that patterns differ slightly from designer to designer, and even from magazine to magazine.* The stitch abbreviations are often the same (see the bottom of this post for differences in US vs. UK terms), but elements such as pattern repeats may be designated differently. Most reputable designers and magazines will have a crochet terms glossary at the beginning of the pattern. Look at this when in doubt.
What is the foundation chain in crochet?
Sometimes the foundation chain is long (for an afghan) and sometimes it is short (for a motif that begins as a circle). Anytime a set of directions is enclosed in parentheses you do what the pattern says directly after it.
What does ch5 count as?
PATTERN SAYS: Ch5 (counts as first dc plus ch 2, now and throughout), turn; dc in next dc, (dc, ch 1, dc) in next ch-2 sp and in each ch-2 sp across.
How many times do you crochet in the parentheses?
This means you work the instructions in the parentheses 7 times all t ogether.
How many crochet stitches are there in one chain?
In this case you have sets of 5 double crochet stitches (in one chain) alternating with single crochet stitches. You need to do 5 double crochet stitches in the free loop of the foundation chain that is directly across from a set of 5 double crochet stitches on the opposite side and a single crochet stitch in the free loop.
How many crochets should you end up with in each chain 2 space?
previous row. So in each chain 2 space you should end up with a double crochet, chain 2, double crochet.
How to do a v stitch in crochet?
YOU NEED TO: Chain one and skip the next double crochet stitch on the previous row. N ow you work a v stitch (instructions for the v-stitch should be explained in the pattern) in the next chain 1 space that you made on the previous row.
What is the basic chain divisible by?
The sames goes for 9 +1. ... the basic chain should be divisible by 9 and
What is the shorthand for crochet pattern?
This shorthand or abbreviations are important to know when using any crochet pattern, including ours. These common crochet punctuations are shorthand for repeating pattern sections: * = Repeat the instructions following the single asterisk as directed.
What does "pin it" mean in crochet?
Pin it. Crochet abbreviations are a way to shorten a certain crochet stitch name inside patterns. Many designers, publishers, and companies will use abbreviations when referring to crochet stitches.
How do crochet stitches work?
Unlike knitting, crochet stitches have height. They consist of a stitch at the top of a stem. When working a row your yarn is at the top of the stem by the stitch. When you get to the end of a row you need to turn your work and start working in the opposite direction. However, at the start of this row, of course your yarn is at the top ...
How many chains are used for a single crochet?
This depends of course on the height of the first stitch you are using on the next row. Generally speaking, one chain is used for single crochet (UK double crochet), 2 chain for half double crochet (UK half trebles), 3 chain for double crochet (UK trebles), 4 chain for trebles (UK quadruple crochet) and so on…….
Why use 2 chain for double crochet?
I like to use 2chain for double crochet (UK trebles) as my chain tend to be a bit looser than they should and it gives me a neater tighter edge.
Do you count the turning chain as a stitch?
Generally, most crocheters, when using single crochet (UK double crochet), do not count the turning chain as a stitch, but do for all other stitches. And generally speaking, I do too. When you do count the turning chain as a stitch it leaves a slight hole, yet if don’t, you end up with a wavy edge where it sticks out on every other row. It depends what is more important to you. However for me, the hole is more marked when using half double crochet (UK half trebles) so I tend to go more for not counting it as a stitch in this instance.
What does SP mean in crochet?
As mentioned above, these are the three main instances you will see "sp" in crochet patterns:#N#Sp or sp (s) means that you will crochet into the space between stitches in the row above. Either one space or multiple spaces, depending on which abbreviation is shown.
What is a ch SP?
chain space. A ch-sp can also be shown with the number, as an example, it could be ch-1sp or ch-2sp. Or partially written out as ch-1 space, etc. Ch-sp means that, when crocheting a chain, you will skip a stitch and work into the next. Then, in the next row, you will work into that space in the chain above.
What is the art of hanging letters on the wall?
Hanging wooden letters on the wall around the home is known as "Alphabeta" art. The famous Betty Crocker was the first woman to market wooden spatulas in America. Ancient Egyptian tombs had a large collection of wooden crafts and coffins were made of wood as well.

Getting Started
Working in Double Crochet
- Skipped chains and turning chains don’t disappear when working in double crochet or taller stitches. Now they count as a stitch. Let’s do a first row in double crochet. The pattern says: Ch 17. Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook and in chain across: 15 dc. So you will make a slip knot on the hook, then make 17 chain stitches. Now count 4 chains away from the hook, and work a double …
Parentheses, Asterisks, and Brackets
- In addition to using lots of abbreviations and terms, crochet patterns use several symbols to tell you what to do. Crochet patterns often have a series of steps that are repeated several times across a row. Rather than writing these out time after time, asterisks (*) are used to indicate the repeats. A pattern might read like this: Row 3: Dc in next 3 sts; *ch 1, skip next st, dc in next st; re…
Working in Spaces
- One instruction that often confuses beginners is “ work a shell in next ch sp”. A chain space occurs when you work a chain stitch, then skip a stitch, then work into the next stitch. The space underneath the chain, where you skipped a stitch, is where you will work the shell. Spaces can be one or more chains, and if they are 3 or more, are often ca...
Working in The Round
- Many crochet projects include working in rounds – such as a granny square. Instructions may read: Ch 8, join with a slip stitch to form a ring. To do this, you will make a slip knot on the hook as usual, then make 8 chs, then insert the hook into the first chain made, hook the yarn and draw it through the first chain and through the loop on the hook (See Figure 6). Now you have a small ci…
Working Garments
- If you are making a garment, you need to know some special terms. Right front, right sleeve, right shoulder:These all refer to the actual body part on which the piece will be worn – the right arm, etc. The same applies to left front, left sleeve,left shoulder. Right side, wrong side:You may be told to work with the right (or wrong) side of the piece facing you. The right side of a garment is the s…
Special Thanks
- Thanks to Jean Leinhauser, one of the industry’s foremost designers/editors and best-selling author who has worked tirelessly to promote the craft of crochet, for preparing this helpful outline on “How to Read a Crochet Pattern.” And special thanks to Leisure Arts for granting permission to reproduce the diagrams used in this article. The diagrams are taken fromLearn to Crochet the E…