Keep beside your yarn
Understand the instructions before you begin
Crochet patterns compress a lot of information into short abbreviations. Before starting, check the terminology, repeat instructions, stitch counts and notes about turning chains. These details explain how a piece keeps its shape.
US and UK stitch names
| US term | UK equivalent |
|---|---|
| Chain (ch) | Chain (ch) |
| Slip stitch (sl st) | Slip stitch (sl st) |
| Single crochet (sc) | Double crochet (dc) |
| Half double crochet (hdc) | Half treble crochet (htr) |
| Double crochet (dc) | Treble crochet (tr) |
| Treble crochet (tr) | Double treble crochet (dtr) |
A pattern containing “dc” is ambiguous unless its terminology is specified. Do not translate just one stitch and leave the rest unchanged.
What a stitch looks like
Most basic stitches form a V at the top. Unless the instructions say otherwise, insert the hook under both arms of that V. “Front loop only” and “back loop only” tell you to use a single arm instead. The loop already on your hook is not a completed stitch.
Reading repeats
In an instruction such as “(sc, ch 1) 4 times”, repeat the entire group four times. Square brackets or asterisks can mark repeats too; always read the pattern’s own abbreviation key. A number at the end of a row usually gives the resulting stitch count, but some patterns count chain spaces separately.
Turning chains
A turning chain brings the yarn up to the height of the next row. Whether it counts as a stitch depends on the pattern. When it counts, you normally skip the stitch at its base and work into the top of the previous turning chain at the opposite edge. When it does not count, work the first stitch as the pattern directs and do not accidentally add a stitch into that chain.
Gauge and finished size
Gauge describes the number of stitches and rows in a measured area. Work a swatch larger than the area being measured, treat it as the finished item will be treated, and measure away from the edges. Too many stitches in the measured width means your stitches are smaller than the target; fewer means they are larger. Changing hook size can help, but recheck the swatch rather than assuming the result.
Keep helpful notes
Record the yarn, hook size in millimetres, terminology, stitch count and any changes you make. If a pattern seems inconsistent, compare the written repeat with its stitch count before altering the instructions.
Loopora Crochet · Simple stitches. Beautiful creations.