Crochet is like a secret code made of stitches, abbreviations, and symbols. If you’re new to crochet, understanding a pattern might seem tricky at first, but don’t worry! Let’s break it down step by step, so you can follow along easily and learn how to read crochet patterns.
What is a Crochet Pattern?
A crochet pattern is like a recipe that tells you what to do to make something. Instead of cooking, you’re making things with yarn and a hook! Patterns use special abbreviations and symbols to show you which stitches to use and how many times to do them.
Common Abbreviations You’ll See
Crochet patterns use short words or letters to save space. Here are the most common ones:
- ch = chain
- sl st = slip stitch
- sc = single crochet
- hdc = half double crochet
- dc = double crochet
- tr = treble crochet
- rep = repeat
For example, if you see “ch 10,” it means you need to make 10 chain stitches.
Numbers and Parentheses
Sometimes patterns tell you to do a group of stitches more than once. This is where numbers and parentheses come in.
- ( ): Tells you to repeat what’s inside the parentheses a certain number of times.
- Example: “(sc, ch 1) 5 times” means do 1 single crochet and 1 chain stitch, then repeat that 5 times.
- [ ]: Similar to parentheses, brackets often show repeated sections.
- Example: “[sc in next st, ch 2] 3 times” means you should do the single crochet and chain 2 combo 3 times.
Rows and Rounds
Patterns might tell you to work in rows or rounds.
- Rows: Work back and forth, like mowing the lawn in straight lines. After you finish one row, you turn the project and go back the other way.
- Rounds: Work in a circle, like when making a hat or coaster. You don’t turn your project, you just keep going around.
Special Instructions
Sometimes, a pattern has a note or special stitch section to explain something unique.
- If a pattern says “work in back loops only,” it means you’ll put your hook into just the back part of the stitch (not the whole thing).
- A “special stitch” might mean something unusual that isn’t explained with just abbreviations. It could be a fancy way to make a new texture or shape, and the pattern will give you extra details.
Practice with a Simple Pattern
Let’s try a small practice project! Here’s a simple pattern for a small square:
Ch 11 (this will be the foundation chain)
Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc across (10 sc), turn.
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in each st across (10 sc), turn.
Repeat Row 2 until the piece is as tall as you want.
Fasten off and weave in ends.
- Ch 11 means you’ll start by making 11 chain stitches.
- Row 1: You do a single crochet in the second chain from your hook, then keep making single crochets across the row until you have 10 stitches. At the end, you turn your work.
- Row 2: Chain 1, then do a single crochet in each stitch from the last row. Turn again at the end.
- Keep repeating Row 2 until your square is the size you want!
Tips for Success:
- Read through the pattern first. Before you start, look it over so there are no surprises.
- Use stitch markers. These help keep track of your place, especially in rounds.
- Don’t rush. It’s okay to take it slow and double-check what the pattern is asking you to do.
Now that you’ve learned how to read crochet patterns, you’re ready to start a project like a pro! With practice, these codes will become second nature. Happy crocheting!